Job Description: Processing Archivist
The Processing Archivist plays a crucial role in the Library and Information Science field, responsible for effectively managing, organizing, and preserving archival collections. This position requires meticulous attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and a deep understanding of archival principles and best practices. The Processing Archivist ensures the accessibility and integrity of archival materials while efficiently processing collections to make them available for research purposes.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Conduct comprehensive appraisal, arrangement, and description of archival collections following established archival standards and procedures.
2. Assess and establish preservation priorities for archival materials, ensuring their long-term physical and intellectual accessibility.
3. Develop and apply processing plans, including creating finding aids, inventories, and other descriptive tools, to facilitate efficient access and retrieval of archival collections.
4. Evaluate and implement appropriate metadata schemas and controlled vocabularies to enhance discoverability and facilitate efficient retrieval of archival materials.
5. Collaborate with other archivists and librarians to develop and maintain effective workflows and procedures for processing archival collections.
6. Conduct detailed research on archival materials, providing accurate and comprehensive historical context to aid in the understanding of collection content.
7. Collaborate with subject matter experts to identify and prioritize sensitive or restricted materials, ensuring compliance with legal and ethical considerations.
8. Assist in the development and implementation of digitization initiatives, ensuring adherence to established digitization standards and best practices.
9. Stay abreast of emerging archival trends, technologies, and methodologies, actively engaging in professional development activities to enhance knowledge and skills.
10. Contribute to the professional community by participating in conferences, workshops, and other forums to share expertise and knowledge.
Required Skills and Qualifications:
1. Master's degree in Library and Information Science, with a focus on archives or a related field.
2. Strong knowledge of archival theory, principles, and best practices.
3. Demonstrated experience in processing archival collections, including appraisal, arrangement, and description.
4. Proficiency in utilizing archival management systems and tools such as ArchivesSpace, Archivists' Toolkit, or similar platforms.
5. Familiarity with metadata standards and practices, such as EAD, DACS, Dublin Core, or MODS.
6. Excellent research skills, including the ability to conduct thorough and accurate historical research.
7. Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
8. Attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining the integrity and accuracy of archival records.
9. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively convey complex information to diverse audiences.
10. Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment and establish positive working relationships with colleagues and stakeholders.
Note: This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the responsibilities and qualifications required for the role of a Processing Archivist. It is not exhaustive and may be subject to change based on the needs of the organization.