Intern Archivist Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Washington County is committed to safely storing and caring for our county's important cultural resources gathered over the past 100 years. The Historical Collection Inventory Specialist position is part of a3 to 5 yearinventory project focused on reviewing and cataloguing the county's extensive collection of objects, ensuring the accuracy of records, and updating the collections management database (PastPerfect).
As part of a small team, you will evaluate historical objects in the collection to verify proper documentation,createand update collections database records with descriptions and photographs, andproperly storeobjects by location.You'llneed to have strong organizational skills with the ability to problem-solve an approach to object identification, research missing information, and strategize how to resolve collections mysteries. The position requires being able to work independently and collaboratively as a team member with a proactive, solutions-oriented mindset.
While most work will need to be performed at the Historical Collection Building, there will bean optionof a limited number of remote hours after a probationary period andcompletedtraining.

IdealKnowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

• Understanding of collections database work and meticulous documentation skills tomaintainand update historical collections records.

• Skill to photograph, label, and catalog artifacts for digital records using a digital camera, laptop, and scanner.

• Strong organizational and research skills toidentifycritical information components like object description, condition, location, and provenance.

• Strong attention to detail with the ability to shift priorities, while managing multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.

• Ability to reach inventory project goals on established timelines.

• Knowledge of museum collections storage, conservation practices, and archival standards to ensure compliance with current collections management and archival best practices.

• Ability to transport and handle objects with care while unpacking and packing to secure artifacts using approved methods and materials.

• Ability to lift, push, pull, and support awkward and/or heavy objects, including lifting items up to 40lbsand transporting objects between storage and cataloguing work areas.

• Ability to provide ongoing support in general collection space and object maintenance (including artifact dusting and light cleaning), collection monitoring, and organization of the inventory work areas and object storage areas.

Previousexperience working withPastPerfectOnline is preferred, but not necessary.Workwith collections such as historical artifacts, artworks, natural specimens, books, etc. as a professional, volunteer, or intern is a plus.

To review the complete classification, including the full list of knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) associated with this position, use this link:https://www.washingtoncountyor.gov/hr/job-class/2

Virtual Informational Q&A Session:

To learn more about this opportunity please join us for a virtual Q&A session on8/12/2026at 4pm.If you would like to attend, please emailVeronica Garcia at veronica_garcia@washingtoncountyor.gov for the link.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• A high school diploma or equivalent; andthree (3) years of progressively responsible experience providing administrative or clerical support.

• Possession of Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) or other applicable certifications may substitute for up to one (1) year of the experience requirement.

Additional Requirements

• Background check

About theteam
1 Supervisor
2 Historical Collections Inventory Specialist (ASII)