Spectrum & Diversity Scholars Community

Processing Archivist, University of Arkansas Libraries (apply by July 24)

  • 1.  Processing Archivist, University of Arkansas Libraries (apply by July 24)

    Posted Jul 10, 2017 01:08 PM

    Processing Archivist 


    The University of Arkansas Libraries are seeking an innovative and enthusiastic individual to serve as Processing Archivist and assist the Special Collections Department with increasing the accessibility of the department’s rich archival collections by arranging and describing collections and developing finding aids to enhance the discoverability of these unique collections.  The Processing Archivist serves as a member of the Manuscripts Coordinating Group and reports to the Head of the Manuscripts and Archives Unit.


    General Duties.  The Processing Archivist arranges and describes manuscript collections in accordance with professional archival standards and best practices:  develops a comprehensive processing plan for each collection, which will include determining the intellectual and physical arrangement of manuscript collections that may be comprised of media or born-digital materials in addition to paper and identifying restricted-access items and materials that need basic preservation and conservation care; creates Encoded Archival Description (EAD) finding aids; maintains collection data for progress reports and other statistical reporting; and conducts research on the background of collections and donors.  The Processing Archivist also provides collection research assistance; publicizes collections through digital exhibits, press releases, and presentations; and trains, supervises, and evaluates project staff, as required. 


    The ideal candidate will possess knowledge of Arkansas political and social history; excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills; archival knowledge, including basic preservation standards; understanding of copyright, privacy laws, and rights management issues; and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively with a variety of constituents.


    Qualifications. Required: A bachelor’s degree in history, public policy, political science, or a relevant field. Demonstrated work experience in processing substantial manuscript collections in an archives or research library; demonstrated experience working with metadata standards, such as EAD or DACS.


    Preferred: Master’s degree from an ALA-accredited program with a concentration in archival studies, a master’s degree in Archives and Records Administration, or a master’s degree in Archival Studies; project management experience in archives; experience with archival content management systems, such as ArchivesSpace, CONTENTdm, and Preservica; and coursework or training in digital archives, including processing methodologies relating to born-digital materials.  


    Salary and Benefits.  Twelve-month, non-classified, non-faculty position (Research Assistant).  Salary:  $38,000.  Benefits include TIAA or Fidelity Investments, 22 days of annual leave, tuition reduction, and health insurance.


    Background:  The University of Arkansas places students first by enhancing academic programs, creating an engaging campus life, reducing obstacles, enhancing diversity, improving graduation rates, and marshaling the expertise of the faculty, staff, and students.  The University is classified by the Carnegie Foundation as a research university with very high levels of research activity (RU/VH).  The University provides a superior campus landscape and environment while designing and building world class facilities.  The funding for research awards and research expenditures continues to grow and so do the academic programs offered.  The University Libraries share in the stewardship of the University’s goals and takes responsibility for the health of the research and teaching collections as well as programs that further support the academic mission.  For more information, visit the Libraries’ home page (http://libraries.uark.edu).  The University of Arkansas campus (http://www.uark.edu/) in Fayetteville, Arkansas, with a student enrollment of more than 26,000, is the flagship campus of the University of Arkansas System.  With a population of approximately 460,000, the northwest Arkansas region is home to two Fortune 100 company headquarters.  This thriving region offers numerous cultural venues, such as the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, the Walton Arts Center, and the Shiloh Museum of Ozark History.


    Application deadline and contact information.  Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.  Completed applications received by July 24, 2017, will receive full consideration.  For full posting or to apply, please go to http://jobs.uark.edu/postings/21363 .  When completing your application, please upload the following: letter of application (addressed to the attention of Jeff Banks, Director for HR and Organizational Development), résumé, and names, addresses, and telephone numbers of three current references.  For more information, please contact Jeff Banks at libhrofc@uark.edu.


    The University of Arkansas is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution.  The University welcomes applications without regard to age, race/color, gender (including pregnancy), national origin, disability, religion, marital or parental status, protected veteran status, military service, genetic information, sexual orientation, or gender identity.  Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.  All applicant information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.