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Historical Archivist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Archivist

Beltsville, MD · On-site

$60K - $72K/yr

The Archivist will assist in the arrangement, description, preservation, and access of archival materials documenting the history of agriculture, agricultural science, and related federal programs.

Archivist

Beltsville, MD · On-site

$60K - $72K/yr

The Archivist will assist in the arrangement, description, preservation, and access of archival materials documenting the history of agriculture, agricultural science, and related federal programs.

Archivist

Washington, DC · On-site

$73K - $85K/yr

The Archivist / Project Manager will serve as both the technical lead and day-to-day project ... Research collection provenance, acquisition history, and processing history to support processing ...

ARCHIVIST

Montgomery, AL · On-site

$74K/yr

The primary purpose of this position is to serve as Archivist at Headquarters Air Force Historical Research Agency, an Air Force Field Operating Agency (FOA). Responsible for performing the archival ...

Archivist

Washington, DC · On-site

$43.76/hr

Archivist (Federal Project - Washington, D.C.) Pay Rate: $43.76/hour Zimmerman Associates, Inc ... Knowledge of American history, culture, documentary studies, oral history, or related disciplines

... Archivist who brings equal parts of precision and curiosity. Someone who thrives on structure ... You'll join a passionate team redefining how history is preserved, accessed, and shared-through ...

Archivist

Washington, DC · On-site

$73K - $85K/yr

The Archivist / Project Manager will serve as both the technical lead and day-to-day project ... Research collection provenance, acquisition history, and processing history to support processing ...

Archivist

Washington, DC · On-site

$43.76/hr

Archivist (Federal Project - Washington, D.C.) Pay Rate: $43.76/hour Zimmerman Associates, Inc ... Knowledge of American history, culture, documentary studies, oral history, or related disciplines

Archivist

Fairbanks, AK · On-site

$53K/yr

The aim is to either tell the story of a particular community or retain a piece of history for ... Recommended SchoolsWhat is an Archivist? Duties Here are the duties you can expect to perform as an ...

... Archivist who brings equal parts of precision and curiosity. Someone who thrives on structure ... You'll join a passionate team redefining how history is preserved, accessed, and shared-through ...

... Archivist who brings equal parts of precision and curiosity. Someone who thrives on structure ... You'll join a passionate team redefining how history is preserved, accessed, and shared--through ...

... Archivist who brings equal parts of precision and curiosity. Someone who thrives on structure ... You'll join a passionate team redefining how history is preserved, accessed, and shared-through ...

... Archivist who brings equal parts of precision and curiosity. Someone who thrives on structure ... You'll join a passionate team redefining how history is preserved, accessed, and shared--through ...

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Historical Archivist information

See salary details

$28.5K

$72.8K

$119K

How much do historical archivist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for historical 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a historical archivist?

A Historical Archivist needs expertise in archival science, records management, and historical research, typically supported by a degree in history, library science, or a related field. Familiarity with digital archiving systems, cataloging software (such as Archivists' Toolkit or ArchivesSpace), and preservation techniques is essential. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication help archivists manage collections and assist researchers. These skills are vital for preserving historical records, ensuring accessibility, and safeguarding cultural heritage for future generations.

What are some common challenges faced by historical archivists when managing large or fragile collections?

Historical archivists often encounter challenges related to preserving and organizing vast collections, especially when dealing with delicate or deteriorating materials. Ensuring proper environmental controls, such as temperature and humidity, is crucial to prevent further damage to fragile items. Additionally, digitizing records for broader access and managing metadata can be time-consuming but essential for both preservation and research purposes. Collaborating with other archivists, librarians, and researchers is common, and clear communication is key to maintaining collection integrity and accessibility.

What is the difference between Historical Archivist vs Museum Archivist?

AspectHistorical ArchivistMuseum Archivist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in History, Archival Science, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Museum Studies, History, or Archival Science
Work EnvironmentArchives, historical institutions, government agenciesMuseums, cultural institutions, historical societies
Industry UsagePrimarily in archives and historical researchPrimarily in museums and exhibit management
Job FocusPreserving and organizing historical records and documentsManaging museum collections and supporting exhibits

While both roles involve managing historical materials, a Historical Archivist focuses on preserving and organizing records for research and historical reference, often working in archives or government agencies. A Museum Archivist, on the other hand, manages collections specifically for display and educational purposes within museums. Both roles require similar credentials but serve different institutional needs.

How much does a historical archivist make?

The average salary for a historical archivist in the United States is around $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 degree do you need to be a historical archivist?

A historical archivist typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in history, library science, archival studies, or a related field. Many positions prefer or require a master's degree in library and information science or archival studies, along with skills in cataloging, preservation, and the use of archival management software.
More about Historical Archivist jobs

What cities are hiring for Historical Archivist jobs?

Cities with the most Historical Archivist job openings:

What states have the most Historical Archivist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Historical Archivist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Historical Archivist jobs?

For Historical Archivist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Historical Archivist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,781 per year, or $35 per hour.

Oral History Archivist

Gainesville, FL • On-site

University of Florida
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees

$60K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Manage new and legacy oral history collections through accessioning, arrangement, description, and processing.

  • Create and coordinate metadata, inventories, indexes, and finding aids to improve access and discoverability.

  • Provide reference services and assist users in discovering and using oral history collections.


University Of Florida rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 108 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Oral History Archivist
Job no: 541035
Work type: Staff Full-Time
Location: Main Campus (Gainesville, FL)
Categories: Libraries/Museums, Office/Administrative/Fiscal Support
Department:16282200 - LS-ORAL HISTORY PROGRAM
Classification Title:
Library Coordinator II
Classification Minimum Requirements:
Bachelor's degree in an appropriate area of specialization and four years of related library experience; or a master's degree in Library or Information Science or another directly relevant area.
Job Description:
The Oral History Archivist will serve as the primary professional responsible for managing new and legacy oral history materials, including accessioning, arrangement, description, metadata, digitization coordination, preservation planning, and access workflows. The position will work closely with the SPOHP Director and University of Florida Libraries staff to support the preservation and public accessibility of oral histories through the University of Florida Digital Collections.
Archival Processing and Management
  • Appraise, accession, arrange, describe, and process new and legacy oral history collections and related materials.
  • Manage collection databases, tracking systems, inventories, and related archival documentation.
  • Assist with the development and implementation of policies and workflows for digital preservation, records management, storage, and long-term access.
  • Lead efforts to address archival backlogs, including legacy analog audiovisual materials, digitization tracking, and processing prioritization.
  • Oversee daily archival and collection-related activities involving oral histories and associated audiovisual and documentary materials.

Digital Access and Management
  • Create, revise, and standardize metadata, inventories, indexes, abstracts, finding aids, and other descriptive tools to improve intellectual control, discoverability, and access.
  • Coordinate archival workflows with University of Florida Libraries and the University of Florida Digital Collections, including metadata preparation, ingest support, and public access to processed materials.

Collections Management
  • Maintain documentation related to deeds of gift, permissions, embargoes, restrictions, and other rights or access conditions for oral history materials.
  • Support responsible stewardship of restricted, embargoed, culturally sensitive, and rights-sensitive collections using appropriate professional and ethical practices.
  • Assess and support the care of audio and video recordings, transcripts, digital files, paper records, photographs, and other collection materials.
  • Coordinate storage, preservation planning, digitization, and reformatting workflows.
  • Develop, document, and maintain archival workflows and standards for new oral history projects, including file-naming conventions, folder architecture, interview documentation, metadata capture, and the transfer of materials into SPOHP's archival systems.
  • Provide collection data, inventories, and related documentation to support preservation planning, reporting, and grant or contract proposals involving archival processing and digitization.

Reference, Access, and Outreach
  • Provide reference services and assist faculty, students, researchers, and community users in discovering and using SPOHP collections.
  • Respond to inquiries regarding collection content, access, restrictions, permissions, and appropriate use.
  • Serve as a liaison to University of Florida Libraries and relevant campus and community partners on matters related to archival access, preservation, and stewardship.

Expected Salary:
The salary range for this position is $60,000 - $65,000.
This is a TEAMS position and is eligible for a suite of excellent benefits, retirement options, and paid leave.
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in an appropriate area of specialization and four years of related library experience; or a master's degree in Library or Information Science or another directly relevant area.
Preferred:
  • A master's degree from an ALA-accredited library or information science program with a concentration in archives, or a master's degree in history, public history, archival studies, museum studies, information studies, or a related field.
  • At least two years of experience with archival processing, arrangement, description, and collections management.
  • Experience working with oral history collections, audiovisual archives, or other non-paper-based archival materials, including audiocassettes, VHS, DVD, CD, and reel-to-reel recordings.
  • Knowledge of archival best practices related to audiovisual preservation, digitization, born-digital records, and digital preservation.
  • Experience creating inventories, abstracts, indexes, finding aids, or other archival reference tools.
  • Experience applying archival description and encoding standards, including Describing Archives: A Content Standard and Encoded Archival Description.
  • Experience managing data in an archival management system such as ArchivesSpace.
  • Experience processing and managing born-digital records.
  • Experience administering deeds of gift, permissions, restrictions, embargoes, and access controls.
  • Experience providing reference assistance to researchers and the public.
  • Experience working with community organizations, cultural heritage groups, historical societies, or community-centered archival initiatives.
  • Familiarity with culturally sensitive collections, community-centered archival stewardship, and protocols for Native American archival materials.
  • Demonstrated ability to plan and complete complex projects, establish and maintain workflows, set priorities, and meet deadlines.
  • Experience training or supervising students, interns, employees, or volunteers in an archival environment.
  • Experience collaborating with libraries, digital collections platforms, or institutional repositories such as the University of Florida Digital Collections.
  • Strong written, organizational, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively while managing multiple priorities.
  • Experience handling confidential, restricted, culturally sensitive, or otherwise sensitive materials with discretion.
  • Proficiency in Spanish is helpful but not required.

Special Instructions to Applicants:
To be considered for this position, please upload your cover letter, resume, and the names and contact information of three professional references.
Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.
Health Assessment Required:No.
Advertised: 25 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 02 Oct 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
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About University of Florida

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Florida is one of the top ranked public universities in the United States (ranked top 5 amongst public universities in 2023 US news and world report). It is one of only a few comprehensive universities, having medical, veterinary, dental, nursing, public health, and engineering disciplines all co-localized on the same, contiguous campus to facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration. Gainesville is located in the northern region of Florida, within 1-1.5 hours of each coast, and just 1.5-2 hours to Orlando and Tampa. It is a small to medium-sized city with a low cost of living, excellent public and private schools, and southern hospitality. While Gainesville is widely recognized as the home of the Gators, it is quickly becoming known as a center for innovation and a place with a lifestyle that's comfortable for families, yet attractive for young professionals.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Gainesville, FL, US

Year founded

1853