The Archivist must demonstrate excellent people skills as s/he works regularly with researchers, outside groups, colleagues, donors, staff, and others.

The position is consistently involved in a variety of projects that require professional judgment, discretion and a high degree of independence. The employee must demonstrate abilities to effectively communicate, collaborate, and build strong working relationships with staff in a team atmosphere.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Archive Management (45%): Assess, organize, research, and catalog archival donations using a database. Evaluate and catalog existing collections. Participate as a member of the Collection Review Committee to help reach decisions on acquisitions, deaccessions, and conservation treatments for the Museum’s collection. Recommend archival pieces for acquisition, deaccession, and/or conservation treatment. Actively participate in and contribute to the exhibition team. Provide clear direction and oversight of archive interns and volunteers.

• Public Service (35%): Work directly with the public, answering research requests and assisting patrons with the use of various archival resources. Work cooperatively to develop further web-based information to broaden public access to archival materials. Create and present compelling public programs and workshops. Represent the Museum and its archives to community groups, organizations, and committees. Work cooperatively with other staff to promote and maximize the use and potential of the archives.
• Research and Writing (20%): Research and write compelling, accurate articles for Museum publications. Clearly assess, document, and correctly cite historic and scientific sources such as archival materials and/or publications.
• Performs Other Duties as Assigned.

REQUIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:
• Bachelor’s Degree is required. Acceptable fields include, but are not limited to, Anthropology, History, English, and Library Science. Master’s Degree in Museum Studies or Library Science is preferred.
• Minimum of two years of experience in archival work, with demonstrated experience in archival management.
• Possess and maintain a valid Driver’s License.

Necessary Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
• Thorough understanding of archival and library practices and policies.
• Expertise in current archival management practices.
• Outstanding organizational skills.
• Proficiency with a collection database such as Past Perfect.
• Proficiency in helping researchers, public, students, and other staff use various types of archival materials.
• Ability to perform accurate, methodical, and documented historical research.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with museum visitors, members, donors, and researchers.
• Excellent public speaking/presentation skills using a variety of media and ability to articulate clearly and effectively to a wide audience.
• Ability to write clearly and effectively.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Knowledge of museum operations and theory.
• Ability to manage simultaneous priorities under pressure.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Ability to conduct oral histories.
• In-depth knowledge in one area of specialty such as, but not limited to, photography, film, or an historic period.
• Experience working with the media.
• Ability to create and present compelling public programs and workshops.
• Previous experience in developing publications, media presentations, or exhibits.

In evaluating candidates for this position, the City may consider an equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential duties of this position.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED

Collection management software such as Past Perfect, MS Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Internet Explorer, scanner, digital camera, data logger and similar instruments.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, stand, talk and hear. The employee is required to walk; use hands and fingers to handle or operate objects, equipment, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must frequently move and/or lift up to 20 pounds and occasionally move and/or lift up to 50 pounds.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

The noise level in the work environment is moderately quiet.

SELECTION GUIDELINES

Formal application, rating of education and experience, oral interview, background check and job related tests may be required.

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and the employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and the requirements of the job change.