Archivist

POSITION DESCRIPTION SUMMARY STATEMENT

Reporting to the Director of Museum Collections, the Archivist is responsible for the care and management of the PMML’s archival collections. The Archivist processes archival collections to ensure the long-term preservation and organization of original materials and to facilitate public and institutional access to the collection. The Archivist is part of the Collections Team which oversees all work related to the acquisition, processing, digitization, and storage of museum and archival materials. They will also train and supervise Archives Assistant Interns, support the development of exhibits, and create archives-related content as necessary.

ESSENTIAL POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

ALA-accredited master’s degree in Library Science or Information Science

Minimum one year of experience in a special collection or archive with hands-on archival processing experience.

Knowledge of current best practices and standards for processing and describing archival collections.

1. Evidence of effective project planning, management, and follow-through
2. Ability to work independently and collaboratively with staff.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

1. Ability to work some nights and weekends on a scheduled basis in support of PMML events and exhibit installation and de-installation.
2. Ability to lift 40 pounds and work in an environment that may include dust and mold allergens. Ability to sit at a desk/workstation and use a computer for prolonged periods.

Desiriable Qualifications:

1. ALA-accredited master’s degree in Library Science or Information Science, with an emphasis in archives or record management
2. Three years of experience in a special collection or archive with hands-on archival processing experience.
3. ACA Certification, additional certificate in archival studies, and/or substantial coursework in competencies related to archives or record management.
4. Experience with supervisory responsibilities for interns and volunteers, including assigning work, training, and assessing performance.

Experience with developing standard operating procedures and/or technical writing.

1. Experience with content creation (i.e., exhibition labels, social media, and/or contextualizing archival collections for public-facing media).
2. Experience with archival metadata content, structure, and preservation standards including MARC, Dublin Core, EAD, METS, PREMIS, XML, linked data, etc.
3. Knowledge of and/or interest in American military history.

ASSIGNED RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

Processing

• Arrange describe, and label archival collections per accepted standards and practices.
• Maintain policies, procedures, and workflows regarding the processing of archival materials.
• Determine and maintain appropriate physical housing and storage of collections, maintaining inventory control and security.
• Maintain inventory of essential archival supplies for processing collections
• Flag items in need of conservation treatment

Access

• Create and maintain EAD finding aids for new and existing collections
• Coordinate with Digital Lab to digitize archival collections
• Ensure discoverability of collections online via catalog records in multiple databases
• Manage research requests from the public including in-person appointments and electronic requests.
• Assess and develop current research room policies and procedures
• Support the creation of exhibits by connecting staff with relevant archival collections/material for research and display.
• Assist with updating rotating archival displays
• Assist with the installation and de-installation of exhibits, as necessary.
• Provide PMML staff with access to archival materials in support of development, marketing, and programming initiatives.

Knowledgebase

• Maintain knowledge of proper handling for archival materials and instruct staff and patrons as necessary
• Ensure archival policies and procedures align with current best practices
• Develop understanding of best practices for the preservation of born-digital items

Other Duties

• Train and supervise Archives Assistant interns.
• Help maintain the organization, security, and cleanliness of collections storage facility
• Serve as a member of the PMML’s Collection Committee to help assess potential acquisitions for fitness with our mission and collection policy.