Archivist Job Description

Crafting a job description for an archivist position requires a comprehensive understanding of the unique skills, qualifications and responsibilities central to this role. An archivist is responsible for acquiring, managing, organising and maintaining control over collections of information, including historical documents, photos, maps and multimedia materials.

One of the crucial elements in creating an adequate job description is the headline. It should be concise and attention-grabbing while clearly stating the available position. It can be something along the lines of “Experienced Archivist Needed for Dynamic Collection Management.” This headline sets expectations right at the onset.

Commence with a brief summary of the role that offers a snapshot into the function of this job in your organisation. For example: “Our organisation seeks a diligent and experienced archivist capable of managing our diverse collections efficiently. The ideal candidate possesses an excellent eye for detail and an exceptional understanding of preservation techniques.”

The next part of your job description should outline the key responsibilities. Dutifully itemise the tasks and expectations associated with the role. Make it detailed but not overwhelming, dividing them into daily, weekly, monthly or occasional tasks.

For instance:

1. Daily tasks might include arranging, cataloguing, classifying and preserving valuable materials.
2. Weekly duties could encompass performing research to authenticate and appraise historical documents.
3. Monthly responsibilities may involve managing lending and borrowing arrangements whilst ensuring compliance with relevant legislation.
4. Occasional tasks could consist of educational programming, exhibitions, or public presentations.

Listing these tasks helps potential candidates gain insight into their prospective routine and assess their suitability for the role.

Next, distinctly outline the qualifications required. Detail academic credentials, like a degree in library science, history, or related fields, as well as previous experience. Also mention desired skills such as proficiency in archival software, analytical skills, research acumen, organisational abilities and language skills if necessary. If certifications from bodies like the Australian Society of Archivists are needed, specify this too.

It’s critical you emphasise vital personal traits expected from an archivist, such as attention to detail, patience, dedication and diligence given the delicate nature of the documents they handle. Communication skills are also paramount as the candidate must liaise with departments within the organisation and possibly external entities as well.

Subsequently, indicate the supervision or collaboration that will occur in this role; whether the archivist will be part of a team, if they’re required to supervise volunteers or interns, or if they’ll report directly to specific management personnel.

Essential to any job description is stipulating the working conditions. State whether the position is full-time or part-time, fixed-term or ongoing. Talk about any travel requirements, physical demands like heavy lifting, or exposure to aged materials which could affect those with allergies.

Finally, close by explaining the application procedure succinctly. Identify the details required, deadline for applications and desired method of contact – be it enclosures through email or mail, online application forms, or through job listing platforms.

Remember, your job description should communicate your organisation’s tone and culture, hence mirror these aspects in your language usage. The goal is to attract candidates that align not only skill-wise but who’d fit in seamlessly within the work environment as well.

We want our archivist job description to be representative of the position itself – organised, detailed and coherent. Crafting a thorough and appealing job description is the first step towards attracting that perfect candidate who will add immense value to your organization.

Download samples of any of the following documentation below: