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Archival Processing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Processing Archivist

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$74.75 - $105.70/hr

Process new and existing archival collection materials in all formats using ArchivesSpace. * Create finding aids and archival deion using ArchivesSpace. * Collaborate with curators, public services ...

New

Archivist

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$73K - $85K/yr

Arrange and describe archival materials in accordance with approved processing plans and established archival standards. * Establish and maintain series, subseries, and folder-level organization of ...

Archivist

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$73K - $85K/yr

Arrange and describe archival materials in accordance with approved processing plans and established archival standards. * Establish and maintain series, subseries, and folder-level organization of ...

The Lead for Archival Processing and Collection Strategies supervises staff responsible for collections management and establishes clear, efficient workflows that support discovery, teaching, and ...

New

Performs core archival processing and collection management functions including processing digital and physical archival collections and assists with other departmental needs and projects * Assist ...

Performs core archival processing and collection management functions including processing digital and physical archival collections and assists with other departmental needs and projects * Assist ...

Archives Intern

Rochester, NY ยท On-site

$20/hr

The archival processing intern will process 3.0 linear feet of audiovisual materials, game design documentation, and artwork of Michael Shorrock, a video game producer and executive who has worked at ...

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Archival Processing information

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$15

$35

$52

How much do archival processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for archival processing in the United States is $35.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $46.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is archival processing?

Archival processing is the methodical arrangement, description, and preservation of archival materials to make them accessible and understandable for researchers and the public. This process involves sorting records, removing duplicates, rehousing materials in appropriate containers, and creating detailed finding aids or inventories. The goal is to protect the integrity of the records while ensuring they can be easily located and used in the future. Archival processing is a crucial function within libraries, museums, and other institutions that manage historical collections.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in archival processing, and why are they important?

To thrive in Archival Processing, you need a background in library science, archival studies, or history, with knowledge of archival principles and metadata standards. Familiarity with archival management systems, digital preservation tools, and descriptive standards like DACS or EAD is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective written communication help you accurately arrange, describe, and make archival collections accessible. These competencies ensure the preservation, discoverability, and integrity of valuable historical records for research and reference.

What are some common challenges faced in archival processing roles, and how can they be addressed?

One of the most common challenges in archival processing is dealing with incomplete, unorganized, or deteriorating collections. Archivists must often make judgment calls about how to arrange and describe materials to maximize their accessibility while preserving their integrity. Time constraints and limited resources can also add pressure, making prioritization and efficient workflow management essential. Collaborating closely with colleagues, such as reference archivists and digital specialists, can help address these issues and ensure collections are processed effectively and made accessible to researchers.

What is the difference between Archival Processing vs Archivist?

AspectArchival ProcessingArchivist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in library science, archives, or related fieldOften requires a master's degree in library science, archives, or history
Work EnvironmentInvolves organizing, cataloging, and preserving collections in archives or repositoriesIncludes managing collections, providing access, and overseeing archival materials in various institutions
Industry UsagePrimarily used within archives, museums, and special collectionsCommonly used in libraries, museums, and archival institutions

While both roles involve working with archival materials, Archival Processing focuses on organizing and preserving collections, whereas an Archivist manages access, provides reference services, and oversees the overall archival program.

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What cities are hiring for Archival Processing jobs?

Cities with the most Archival Processing job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Archival Processing jobs?

The most popular types of Archival Processing jobs are:

What states have the most Archival Processing jobs?

States with the most job openings for Archival Processing jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Archival Processing jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Archival Processing jobs are:

Infographic showing various Archival Processing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,181 per year, or $35.2 per hour.

Processing Archivist

Carl Acrl

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$74.75 - $105.70/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Processing Archivist

Job #JPF11168 โ€“ University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Location: Los Angeles, CA. Salary range: $74,752 โ€“ $105,696 (Assistant Librarian โ€“ Associate Librarian ranks).

Position Overview

UCLA Library seeks a highly collaborative and knowledgeable archivist to engage in processing and deion of archival collections in Library Special Collections.

Responsibilities
  • Process new and existing archival collection materials in all formats using ArchivesSpace.
  • Create finding aids and archival deion using ArchivesSpace.
  • Collaborate with curators, public services staff, acquisitions team members, graduate students in the Center for Primary Research and Training, and other archivists, donors, and researchers.
  • Work with the Digital Archivist to develop and implement policies and workflows for the deion of bornโ€‘digital materials.
  • Apply and contribute to efficient archival processing guidelines and procedures, including extensible processing principles.
  • Utilize DACS, EAD, EACโ€‘CPF, RDA, LCSH, and MARC21 standards in archival deion.
  • Contribute to department and libraryโ€‘wide outreach and community engagement activities such as instruction, presentations, reference services, and social media.
  • Support the CFRPT program and graduate students carrying out archival discovery and access projects.
  • Collaborate with colleagues in Preservation and Conservation for longโ€‘term stewardship of archival materials.
  • Make professional contributions to activities related to archives and special collections at UCLA and at the regional or national level.
  • Work independently and collaboratively to achieve goals set forth by the position.
  • Other responsibilities as assigned.
Qualifications
  • Basic Qualifications: ALAโ€‘accredited masterโ€™s degree in Library or Information Science at the time of hire (or an equivalent advanced degree with library experience); experience in archival processing, arrangement, and deion; knowledge of archival principles and best practices for efficient processing; experience managing metadata for archival collections, including data standardization, remediation, and repurposing; and ability to use ArchivesSpace and related archival information management systems.
  • Preferred Qualifications: Knowledge of current developments, trends, and technologies in special collections; ability to stay abreast of privacy, confidentiality, copyright, and related policies; knowledge of archival processing theory and approaches for manuscripts and archives; experience communicating effectively with diverse communities and donors; scheduling, project planning, management, completion, and assessment; strong research, project management, interpersonal, and oral and written communication skills; ability to work independently and be selfโ€‘motivated; experience in a highly collaborative teamโ€‘based environment; promotion of teamwork, diversity, equality and inclusiveness within UCLA Libraries; familiarity with the Guidelines for Efficient Archival Processing in the University of California Libraries, OCLCโ€™s Total Cost of Stewardship toolkit, and other ethical, iterative approaches; demonstrated experience in archival processing across a variety of formats; experience with XML editing tools; experience providing reference to special collections users; knowledge of a language other than English.
Application Requirements
  • Curriculum Vitae detailing education and relevant experience.
  • Cover Letter reflecting on your personal and professional experiences and how they align with UCLA Libraryโ€™s strategic directions and mission.
  • Reference check authorization release form.
  • Three to five professional references (contact information only).
Employment Eligibility and Equal Opportunity Statement

Under federal law, the University of California may employ only individuals who are legally authorized to work in the United States and employment is contingent upon a satisfactory background investigation. The University of California 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, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

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