OVERVIEW
The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) is seeking a College Arts Intern to support the Collections and Research Department in expanding public access to its archival holdings on Chinese American history. This nine-week internship offers hands-on experience in digitization, cataloging, archival processing, and research facilitation, directly contributing to MOCA’s mission to preserve and provide access to historical collections. Working closely with experienced museum professionals, the intern will develop key archival, research, and technical skills, while participating in a meaningful project that enhances MOCA’s ability to serve researchers, educators, and the public. 

The intern will take ownership of a digitization and access initiative, processing, cataloging, and digitizing key archival materials to improve searchability and research engagement. Additionally, they will gain firsthand experience in research services, helping to ensure that scholars and visitors can effectively navigate MOCA’s collections. By the end of the internship, the intern will have processed, digitized, and cataloged a selection of archival collections, and contributed to the museum’s long-term digital preservation efforts. Their work will result in tangible deliverables that enhance MOCA’s accessibility while building a professional portfolio that demonstrates expertise in archival preservation and museum research.  

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Digitization & Digital Asset Management – Scan and digitize archival materials using SilverFast software, ensuring high-quality digital preservation.

• Archival Processing & Inventory Development – Create detailed folder-level inventories to enhance organization and accessibility of collections.

• Cataloging & Metadata Entry – Create catalog records for archival materials, contributing to MOCA’s digital collections database and improving researcher access. 

• Research & Public Access Support – Fulfill scan requests for researchers, monitor the reading room when staff need to step away, and assist visitors in navigating the archives. 

  REQUIREMENTS, SKILLS, AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong Organizational Skills & Attention to Detail – Ability to handle historical materials with care, maintain accuracy in data entry, and ensure proper documentation. 

• Excellent Research & Communication Skills – Strong verbal and written communication abilities to interact with researchers and assist in providing research services. 

• Technical & Digital Proficiency – Interest or knowledge in digitization technologies, including SilverFast, Adobe Bridge, and Adobe Photoshop, preferred. 

• Ability to Work Independently & Collaboratively – Capable of managing projects independently while contributing to a team-oriented environment.