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Archivist Jobs in Wheaton, IL (NOW HIRING)

Wheaton College

Processing Archivist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K/yr

WHEATON ARCHIVES & SPECIAL COLLECTIONS - PROCESSING ARCHIVIST Position Summary The Wheaton Library and Archives seeks a skilled, collaborative, innovative, and enthusiastic professional for a ...

Wheaton College

Processing Archivist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K/yr

WHEATON ARCHIVES & SPECIAL COLLECTIONS - PROCESSING ARCHIVIST Position Summary The Wheaton Library and Archives seeks a skilled, collaborative, innovative, and enthusiastic professional for a ...

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Archivist information

See Wheaton, IL salary details

$27.5K

$70.3K

$115K

How much do archivist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for archivist in Wheaton, IL is $70,343.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,700.00 and $80,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an archivist do?

An archivist handles the collection and preservation of historically significant documents and artifacts. As an archivist, your primary responsibilities are to preserve and organize information of value to the public or your institution. Your job duties are to assess the value of particular records, describe and file an item within its historical context and preserve and maintain the collection of archives so current and future generations can access them. The information in a collection of archives may take many forms, including written documents, photographs, film, paintings, carvings, video, and digital media.

What does an archivist do?

An archivist is responsible for collecting, managing, and preserving important historical documents and records. They assess, organize, and catalog materials so they can be easily accessed and used by researchers, organizations, or the public. Archivists also play a key role in digital preservation and may help with exhibitions or educational programs to share their collections. Their work ensures that valuable information and artifacts are protected for future generations.

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

To thrive as an Archivist, you need a strong background in archival science, history, or library science, often supported by a master’s degree in library science (MLS) or a related field. Familiarity with digital asset management systems, cataloging software, and preservation techniques is typically required, and certifications like the Academy of Certified Archivists (ACA) can be advantageous. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing collections and assisting researchers. These skills ensure the proper preservation, accessibility, and integrity of valuable records and historical materials.

What are some common challenges archivists face when managing digital records?

Archivists often encounter challenges related to the preservation, organization, and accessibility of digital records. Unlike physical documents, digital files can become obsolete quickly as technology changes, requiring ongoing efforts to migrate data and maintain compatibility with new systems. Additionally, ensuring data security and proper metadata tagging can be complex, especially when handling large volumes of digital material. Collaborating with IT professionals and staying updated on digital preservation best practices are essential for overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Archivist vs Librarian?

AspectArchivistLibrarian
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Archival Science, History, or related fieldsMaster's in Library Science (MLS) or Library and Information Science (MLIS)
Work EnvironmentMuseums, archives, government agencies, historical societiesPublic, school, academic, or special libraries
Industry UsagePreserving historical records, managing archivesManaging collections, assisting library users, organizing resources

While both Archivists and Librarians work with collections and information management, Archivists focus on preserving and maintaining historical records and documents, often in specialized environments like museums or archives. Librarians primarily manage library collections, assist patrons, and facilitate access to information in various library settings. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but serve different functions within information management and preservation.

Is it difficult to become an archivist?

Becoming an archivist typically requires a relevant bachelor's degree, such as in history, library science, or information management, and often a master's degree for advanced positions. The profession involves developing skills in cataloging, preservation, and using archival software, and competition can be moderate depending on the region and organization.

What degree does an archivist need?

An archivist typically needs at least a master's degree in history, library science, archival studies, or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of records management, preservation techniques, and familiarity with archival software. Certification from professional organizations can also enhance job prospects.

What is the job of an archivist?

An archivist is responsible for preserving, organizing, and managing historical records and documents. They evaluate the significance of materials, maintain proper storage conditions, and may use cataloging systems or digital tools to ensure accessibility for research and reference. Strong attention to detail and knowledge of preservation techniques are essential in this role.

What qualifications do you need to be an archivist?

Archivists typically need a bachelor's degree in history, library science, archival studies, or a related field. Many employers prefer candidates with a master's degree in library or information science, along with skills in records management, organization, and familiarity with archival software. Certification from professional organizations can also enhance job prospects.
More about Archivist jobs

What cities near Wheaton, IL are hiring for Archivist jobs?

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Archivist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Archivist job openings in Wheaton, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 67% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 10% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,343 per year, or $33.8 per hour.

Processing Archivist

Chicago, IL • On-site

Wheaton College
See more jobs at Wheaton Collegeexternal

$60K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description


WHEATON ARCHIVES & SPECIAL COLLECTIONS - PROCESSING ARCHIVIST
Position Summary
The Wheaton Library and Archives seeks a skilled, collaborative, innovative, and enthusiastic professional for a Processing Archivist position. This role plays a critical part in the Archives & Special Collections' mission to collect, preserve, and make accessible Wheaton College's institutional archives and special collections, ensuring long-term access, organization, and stewardship of materials and discoverability for diverse users. The Processing Archivist works collegially and collaboratively within the Archives & Special Collections to ensure excellence and integrity in its collections, services, and programs, and across the Library to promote its mission and values. In partnership with colleagues, the Processing Archivist will plan and manage large and small-scale processing projects, accession new materials, supervise student workers, coordinate with donors, and ensure timely access to archival materials accessioned by Wheaton's archival repositories. The Processing Archivist will receive all necessary training as well as ongoing mentoring and professional development support. The position is full time and will pay $55-60,000 annually.
Under the general supervision of the Head Archivist, the successful candidate will:
  • Arrange, rehouse, and preserve archival records, working across diverse physical and digital formats, in accordance with nationally accepted archival principles, standards, and best practices.
  • Describe archival collections according to nationally accepted archival standards, generating EAD-encoded finding aids in the repository's collections management database, ArchivesSpace, and creating records in MARC format to upload to the Library's online public access catalog.
  • Appraise and accession new collection materials, exercising professional judgement to ascertain the ongoing research value of new collections while faithfully and independently representing administrative, legal, and descriptive information about new materials in ArchivesSpace.
  • Contribute to management and control activities, including collections assessment, stacks and equipment maintenance, space planning, and archival supplies monitoring.
  • Serve on cross-department initiatives, including digital exhibits and preservation activities, contributing to preservation and reformatting activities.
  • Participate in unit-wide meetings, decision-making, and planning activities.
  • Supervise, train, and manage archival student workers.
  • Provide Manuscripts Reading Room desk coverage on occasion, and support reference and research services as needed.

This job description is intended to represent key areas of responsibilities; specific assignments may vary from time to time, and other duties may be assigned.
Professional Required Qualifications
  • Master's degree in library and information science from an ALA-accredited program in hand or in progress, or equivalent combination of advanced degree in a relevant discipline (Museum Studies, Public History, History) and related experience.
  • 1-3 years of experience in a library, archives, or museum setting, working with diverse collections and users.
  • Ability to build productive working relationships and collaborate effectively across teams and with external partners.
  • Capacity to work autonomously, exercise professional judgement, and make independent decisions within the scope of assignments.
  • Ability to prioritize work, manage multiple tasks, and complete projects in a timely manner.
  • Experience using Microsoft Office suite and comfortable learning new systems and platforms, and applications.
  • Superior written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Committed to diversity, growth, and dynamic environments; desire to grow in professional role and develop further expertise.

Professional Preferred Qualifications
  • Demonstrated experience appraising, arranging, describing, and preserving format-diverse archival collections of varying size and complexity in a professional setting.
  • Understanding of tools, platforms, and software used to manage, preserve, and provide access to physical and digital archival records, such as ArchivesSpace and Preservica.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of, or recent coursework in metadata standards, particularly Describing Archives: A Content Standard (DACS), Encoded Archival Description (EAD), AACR2, RDA, and LCSH.
  • Subject familiarity with one or more of the collecting foci of the Archives & Special Collections is preferred, particularly the history of evangelical Christianity in the United States.

Faith Requirements
  • Affirmation of the Wheaton College Statement of Faith as a faithful expression of one's own theological convictions
  • Affirmation of the biblical standards for Christian character and God-honoring behavior described throughout the Wheaton College Community Covenant, and promise to adhere to them in personal practice
  • Support of the Wheaton College Christ-Centered Diversity Commitment, the Gender Equity Vision Statement, and the College's Convictions on Human Sexuality. These commitments can be found on the Wheaton College website.

Physical Requirements - The employee is regularly required to sit, talk, or hear; frequently required to use repetitive hand motion, handle or feel, climb ladders, work with dusty materials, bend or lift up to 40 pounds.
FLSA Status - Exempt
Updated: June 2026

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