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Archivist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

What You'll Do As an Archivist, you'll work hands-on with legacy collections of all sizes. You'll collaborate with clients and team members to process, preserve, and unlock the value of historical ...

What You'll Do As an Archivist, you'll work hands-on with legacy collections of all sizes. You'll collaborate with clients and team members to process, preserve, and unlock the value of historical ...

What You'll Do As an Archivist, you'll work hands-on with legacy collections of all sizes. You'll collaborate with clients and team members to process, preserve, and unlock the value of historical ...

What You'll Do As an Archivist, you'll work hands-on with legacy collections of all sizes. You'll collaborate with clients and team members to process, preserve, and unlock the value of historical ...

Archivist

New York, NY · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

Job Summary The Archivist will work under the direction of the Director of Collection and Exhibitions and in consort with the Associate Curator, Permanent Collection; Registrar; and Collections ...

Promotes an understanding of the university's archives, including Fisk's history, through discussions with visiting scholars upon request and instructional sessions with Fisk faculty and students ...

We are seeking a Senior Archivist to join our team and become a vital player in activating, preserving, and elevating collections for innovative applications. In this role, you will work closely with ...

We are seeking a Senior Archivist to join our team and become a vital player in activating, preserving, and elevating collections for innovative applications. In this role, you will work closely with ...

We are seeking a Senior Archivist to join our team and become a vital player in activating, preserving, and elevating collections for innovative applications. In this role, you will work closely with ...

Supervisory Archivist

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$121K - $158K/yr

Apply professional archival principles and methods of archival collections development, arrangement, preservation, documentation, and description to the organization and management of CFCH's archival ...

Promotes an understanding of the university's archives, including Fisk's history, through discussions with visiting scholars upon request and instructional sessions with Fisk faculty and students ...

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Archivist information

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$28.5K

$72.8K

$119K

How much do archivist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for archivist 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 is the job of an archivist?

An archivist is responsible for preserving, organizing, and managing historical records and documents. They assess the significance of materials, catalog them using specialized tools, and ensure proper storage for future access, often working in museums, libraries, or government agencies.

What qualifications do you need to be an archivist?

To become an archivist, a bachelor's degree in history, library science, archival studies, or a related field is typically required, with many positions preferring a master's degree in library or information science. Relevant skills include attention to detail, organization, and familiarity with archival management software; professional certifications can also enhance job prospects.

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.

Will archivist jobs be taken over by AI?

Archivist jobs involve managing and preserving historical records, which require critical thinking, contextual understanding, and decision-making that AI cannot fully replicate. While AI tools can assist with tasks like digitization and cataloging, human archivists are essential for interpreting and maintaining complex collections.

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 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 is the average salary of an archivist?

The average salary of an archivist in the United States is approximately $50,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Archivists with specialized skills or working in larger institutions may earn higher salaries, and certifications can also influence compensation.

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 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 cities are hiring for Archivist jobs? Cities with the most Archivist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Archivist jobs? The most popular types of Archivist jobs are:
What states have the most Archivist jobs? States with the most job openings for Archivist jobs include:
ARCHIVIST

$102K - $158K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Summary
This position is part of the National Archives and Records Administration, Office of General Counsel. The incumbent works under the general supervision and technical oversight of the FOIA & Privacy Act Officer (Supervisory Archivist), and the technical oversight of the Director of Litigation or staff attorney, performing a variety of professional and administrative archival and access functions for the NGC Access Program.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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The following are the duties of this position at the GS-13. If you are selected at a lower grade level, you will have the opportunity to learn to perform all these duties, and will receive training to help you grow in this position.
As an ARCHIVIST, you will:
  • Serve as a team member involved in efforts to coordinate the accomplishment of NARA's application of various access statutes, including the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the Privacy Act (PA), and access to Presidential materials.
  • Advise and consult with all NARA components on legal and archival issues arising from access to NARA's holdings pursuant to the FOIA, the PA and related privacy matters, legal discovery, records management, and access to Presidential materials, including under the PRA and PRMPA.
  • Serve as official NARA representative who interacts with other agency officials, including legal counsels, FOIA officers and other FOIA specialists, in order to resolve complex access issues that arise.
  • Assist in the preparation and implementation of the FOIA improvement plan and regulatory reporting, as mandated by Executive Order 13392; assists in compiling and verifying FOIA data for NARA's performance report; provides input and advice on the implementation of pertinent information and privacy law and regulations, including privacy impact assessments; assists in providing appropriate advice concerning the protection of personal information from unauthorized use, access, disclosure, and sharing; and participates with others on ad hoc assignments related to these programs.
  • Assists the records officer for the Office of General Counsel and supports all records management requirements, including its internal electronic recordkeeping system.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
The experience may have been gained in either the public, private sector or volunteer service. One year of experience refers to full-time work; part-time work is considered on a prorated basis. To ensure full credit for your work experience, please indicate dates of employment by month/day/year, and indicate number of hours worked per week on your resume.
  • A probationary or trial period may be required. Continued employment is contingent upon supervisory certification that continued employment will benefit the Federal Service; the certification will occur no less than 30 days before the end of the probationary/trial period.
  • Must successfully complete a background investigation.
  • Complete a Declaration for Federal Employment to determine your suitability for Federal employment, at the time requested by the agency.
  • If you are a male applicant born after December 31, 1959, certify that you have registered with the Selective Service System or are exempt from having to do so.
  • Go through a Personal Identity Verification (PIV) process that requires two forms of identification from the Form i-9. Federal law requires verification of the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires in the U.S.
  • Obtain and use a Government-issued charge card for business-related travel.
  • Designated and/or Random Drug Testing may be required.

Key Requirements:
  1. Please refer to "Conditions of Employment."
  2. Click "Print Preview" to review the entire announcement before applying.
  3. Must be U.S. Citizens or U.S. Nationals.
  4. This position also requires Q sensitive and Top Secret security clearance.

Qualifications
You must meet the following requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement.
Specialized Experience for the GS-13 grade level is defined as one year of experience at the GS-12 grade level, or equivalent, that is typically in or related to the position and which equipped the candidate with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of this position. Specialized experience for this position is defined as experience:
  • Knowledge of, and ability to apply records and information management principles, concepts, practices, techniques and methods.

AND
  • Experience with the Freedom of Information act (FOIA) and the Privacy Act (PA) requests for records.

AND
  • Experience providing technical consultation on FOIA and other access statutes to meet the needs of NARA, other agencies, users, or researchers.

Specialized Experience for the GS-12 grade level is defined as one year of experience at the GS-11 grade level, or equivalent, that is typically in or related to the position and which equipped the candidate with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of this position. Specialized experience for this position is defined as experience:
  • Experience with the Freedom of Information act and the Privacy Act;

AND
  • Experience with records and information management principles, concepts, practices, techniques or methods;

AND
  • Experience communicating to various audiences to give guidance on legal or archival issues which may include specific individual requests, project segments, entire projects, or larger issues.

In addition to the above requirements, you must meet the following requirements, if applicable (as defined in 5 CFR 300, Subpart F):
Time-in-Grade: For the GS-13, you must have been at the GS-12level for 52 weeks.
Time-in-Grade: For the GS-12, you must have been at the GS-11 level for 52 weeks.
Time After Competitive Appointment: Candidates who are current Federal employees serving on a non-temporary competitive appointment must have served at least three months in that appointment.
Education
Individual Occupational Requirement
Basic Education Requirement for All Grades:
Bachelor's degree in archival science or bachelor's degree with a major that includes 18 semester hours in archival science, history and/or in political science or government, and 12 semester hours in one or any combination of the following: archival science, history, American civilization, economics, political science, public administration, or government.
OR
Combination of education and experience - at least 30 semester hours that included courses as shown above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
The education generally must be from an accredited (or pre-accredited) college or university recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. If you are qualifying based on foreign education, you must submit proof of creditability of education as evaluated by a credentialing agency. Refer to the OPM instructions.
Additional information
  • We may select from this announcement or any other source to fill one or more vacancies.
  • When the National Archives and Records Administration completes their selections, the remaining lists of qualified candidates may be shared with hiring managers and Human Resources specialists at additional offices, bureaus, or agencies who are hiring for similar positions. You will have an opportunity to opt-in if you would like your name, application material, and assessment results shared with additional offices or bureaus. There is no guarantee of further consideration, and you can continue to explore other job opportunity announcements.
  • This is a non-bargaining unit position.
  • We offer opportunities for telework, per Agency policy.
  • We offer opportunities for flexible work schedules, per Agency policy.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION REQUESTS:
If you believe you have a disability (i.e., physical or mental), covered by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended and Americans with Disabilities Act 1990 as amended, that would interfere with completing the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments, you will be granted the opportunity to request a reasonable accommodation in your online application. Requests for Reasonable Accommodations for the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments and appropriate supporting documentation for Reasonable Accommodation must be received prior to starting the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments. Decisions on requests for Reasonable Accommodations are made on a case-by-case basis. If you meet the minimum qualifications of the position, after notification of the adjudication of your request, you will receive an email invitation to complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments. You must complete all assessments within 48 hours of receiving the URL to access the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments, if you received the link after the close of the announcement. To determine if you need a Reasonable Accommodation, please review the Procedures for Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation for Online Assessments here: Requesting an accommodation
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.