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Government Archivist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

State of Washington

Lead Research Archivist

Olympia, WA · On-site

$69K - $93K/yr

The Lead Research Archivist supports government agencies and the public with accessing records, including an increasing number of digital records. This position plays a critical role in overseeing ...

State of Washington

Lead Research Archivist

Olympia, WA · On-site

$69K - $93K/yr

The Lead Research Archivist supports government agencies and the public with accessing records, including an increasing number of digital records. This position plays a critical role in overseeing ...

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$28.5K

$72.8K

$119K

How much do government archivist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for government 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.

How to become a government archivist?

To become a government archivist, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in history, library science, or a related field, with many positions preferring a master's degree or certification in archival studies. Relevant skills include knowledge of records management, cataloging, and archival software, along with attention to detail and organizational abilities. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions in archives or records management is also beneficial.

Will AI replace archivist?

AI can assist archivists by automating tasks such as data organization, indexing, and digitization, but it is unlikely to fully replace the role. Archivists' expertise in context, preservation, and decision-making remains essential for managing and interpreting historical records effectively.

What are some common challenges faced by government archivists and how are they addressed in daily work?

Government archivists often encounter challenges such as managing large volumes of records, ensuring proper digital preservation, and maintaining strict compliance with legal and confidentiality requirements. They address these issues by implementing standardized cataloging systems, utilizing specialized archival software, and regularly participating in training on regulatory updates. Collaboration with IT specialists, legal teams, and departmental staff is essential to ensure records are preserved, accessible, and protected according to government standards.

Is there a demand for archivists?

The demand for government archivists is expected to grow as organizations continue to prioritize preserving historical records and digital data. Employment opportunities often require skills in records management, archival software, and sometimes certification, with job growth driven by the need to maintain public records and historical documents.

What is the average salary of an archivist?

The average salary of a government archivist typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Archivists often require strong organizational skills and familiarity with archival management software, and salaries can increase with certifications and advanced degrees.

What are Government Archivists?

Government Archivists are professionals responsible for collecting, preserving, organizing, and managing records and historical documents created by government agencies. They ensure that important public records are maintained for legal, administrative, and historical purposes. Government Archivists also facilitate access to these records for researchers, officials, and the public, while ensuring sensitive information is protected according to law. Their work helps preserve the transparency, accountability, and heritage of government actions.

What is the difference between Government Archivist vs Government Records Manager?

AspectGovernment ArchivistGovernment Records Manager
CredentialsTypically requires a Master’s in Archival Science, Library Science, or related fieldOften requires a Bachelor’s or Master’s in Records Management, Library Science, or Public Administration
Work EnvironmentArchives, government agencies, historical repositoriesGovernment offices, records departments, administrative units
Primary FocusPreserving and maintaining historical and official recordsManaging active records, ensuring compliance, and records retention
Common UsageUsed in contexts emphasizing preservation and historical significanceUsed when focusing on records management and administrative functions

The main difference between a Government Archivist and a Government Records Manager lies in their focus: archivists preserve historical records, while records managers oversee active records and compliance. Both roles require related credentials and work within government settings, but their primary responsibilities and environments differ.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Government Archivist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Government Archivist, you need expertise in archival science, information management, and historical research, typically supported by a degree in library science, history, or a related field. Familiarity with digital asset management systems, metadata standards, and records management software is essential. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to communicate clearly are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring the proper preservation, accessibility, and legal compliance of government records.
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Government Archivist jobs near you

ARCHIVIST

Volunteer at NARA | National Archives

College Park, MD • On-site

$102K/yr

Other

Posted 8 hours ago

Job description

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.
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.Employment Type: OTHER

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