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Archival Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ACC Archival Intern

Golden, CO · On-site

$15.50 - $20.75/hr

Job Title ACC Archival Intern The Archives Intern will work under the supervision of the Archivist ... internship. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and selected candidates will be ...

ACC Archival Intern

Golden, CO · On-site

$15.50 - $20.75/hr

Job Title ACC Archival Intern The Archives Intern will work under the supervision of the Archivist ... internship. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and selected candidates will be ...

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Archival Internship information

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$28.5K

$72.8K

$119K

How much do archival internship jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for archival internship in the United States is $72,781.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $83,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Archival Internships?

Archival internships are temporary positions, often held by students or recent graduates, that provide hands-on experience working in archives. Interns assist with tasks such as organizing, preserving, and cataloging historical documents, photographs, and other records. These internships help individuals gain practical skills in archival practices and learn about the management of collections. They are valuable for those considering a career in archives, libraries, or related fields.

What are some common challenges faced by archival interns and how can they be addressed?

Archival interns often encounter challenges such as handling fragile materials, navigating complex cataloging systems, and balancing multiple tasks with tight deadlines. To manage these, interns should prioritize clear communication with supervisors, seek guidance when unfamiliar with protocols, and stay organized by using checklists or workflow tools. Additionally, being proactive in learning archival standards and software can greatly ease the transition into the archival environment and improve efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Archival Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Archival Intern, you need a foundational knowledge of archival principles, attention to detail, and often a background in library science, history, or related studies. Familiarity with archival management software, digitization tools, and metadata standards is commonly expected. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate preservation, accessibility, and management of important historical records for future use.

What is the difference between Archival Internship vs Archivist?

AspectArchival InternshipArchivist
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate, some relevant courseworkBachelor's or master's degree in library science, history, or related field
Work EnvironmentTemporary, educational setting, or organization’s archivesFull-time, professional setting managing collections
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, museums, archivesLibraries, museums, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonEntry-level, internship experienceProfessional career, permanent position

In summary, an archival internship is a temporary, educational role designed for students or recent graduates gaining experience, while an archivist is a full-time professional responsible for managing and preserving collections. Internships often serve as a stepping stone toward becoming an archivist.

More about Archival Internship jobs
What cities are hiring for Archival Internship jobs? Cities with the most Archival Internship job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Archival jobs? The most popular types of Archival jobs are:
What states have the most Archival Internship jobs? States with the most job openings for Archival Internship jobs include:
Infographic showing various Archival Internship job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 22% Internship, 48% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $72,781 per year, or $35 per hour.
Special Collections Archival Intern

Special Collections Archival Intern

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN • On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Vanderbilt University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

192nd of 536 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Description
Archival Internship at Vanderbilt University
Position Title: Intern
Department: Special Collections and University Archives
Location: Nashville, TN
Duration: Summer 2026
Position Overview
Vanderbilt Special Collections and University Archives (SCUA) holds the complete collections of cartoonists Tom Little and Charles Bissell whose work appeared in The Tennessean from the 1930s-1970s. Their work presents a near daily glimpse into four decades of local, regional, and national politics. The collections are housed in hundreds of oversized flat boxes, roughly collated together by year.
We are seeking an intern to help us process and describe these collections by examining each cartoon and entering the appropriate metadata in a spreadsheet. Some research may be required as well as some light preservation work. We are aiming to have a cartoon processed every 5 minutes, so time management is key. The goal is to make these collections accessible since they are currently under-described, which limits their educational and research value. This internship will provide hands-on archival experience in an academic library environment, and is generously funded by the TN250 program, which will highlight Tennessee as part of the celebration of America's 250th anniversary.
Key Responsibilities
• Examine items and enter all appropriate metadata into a spreadsheet
• Conduct research with designated databases when needed
• Request materials through our request management system
• Folder, label and re-box items as needed
• Separate items with tissue paper to help preservation
• Attend meetings and take notes when needed
• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor
Qualifications
• Undergraduate or graduate students currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a relevant degree program
• Strong attention to detail and organization with a willingness to learn
• Ability to lift 30-40-pound boxes
• Excellent time management skills are a must
Benefits
• Hands-on archival experience
• Mentorship and professional development
• Potential academic credit (if applicable)
About Us
At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of "America's Best Large Employers" as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.
We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.
Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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