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Museum Archivist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Atlanta Public Schools

HOURLY ARCHIVIST

Atlanta, GA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in History, Archival Studies, Library Science, Museum Studies, Public History, or a related field preferred * Additional years of equivalent professional experience may be ...

Atlanta Public Schools

HOURLY ARCHIVIST

Atlanta, GA

$31/hr

Bachelor's degree in History, Archival Studies, Library Science, Museum Studies, Public History, or a related field preferred * Additional years of equivalent professional experience may be ...

The Chickasaw Nation

Archival Technician

Sulphur, OK · On-site

This also includes professional archival services in digitization practices such as imaging of ... Museum setting * Pass pre-employment drug test Training *It is the responsibility of each employee ...

Arlington County, VA

Archival Supervisor

Arlington, VA · On-site

$93K - $144K/yr

Significant experience in a library, museum, or similar setting performing archival or special collections work. Desirables : Preference will be given to applicants with experience in one or more of ...

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Museum Archivist information

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$28.5K

$72.8K

$119K

How much do museum archivist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for museum 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 do you become a museum archivist?

To become a museum archivist, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in history, library science, archival studies, or a related field, with many pursuing a master's degree for advanced positions. Relevant skills include organization, attention to detail, and familiarity with archival management software; some roles may also require certification or experience in preservation. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions in archives or museums is also beneficial.

What Does a Museum Archivist Do?

As a museum archivist, you help appraise and maintain the materials and documents associated with a specific collection. In this role, you may help restore historical items, research this history of specific objects, oversee other museum staff, and otherwise authenticate various materials. Museum archivists also help coordinate educational study programs, manage tours and workshops, and otherwise help keep the museum functioning. Archivists usually work for curators, who serve as directors and help manage the daily operations of each facility. Many museum archivists specialize in specific areas, such as botany, geography, or metallurgy, and what you specialize in can affect the number and type of archivist roles you qualify for.

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

To thrive as a Museum Archivist, you need expertise in archival science, records management, and preservation techniques, usually supported by a degree in library science, history, or a related field. Familiarity with digital asset management systems, cataloging software, and archival standards such as DACS or EAD is typically required. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to communicate clearly with diverse stakeholders are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure the accurate preservation, organization, and accessibility of valuable museum collections for research, education, and public engagement.

What are some common challenges faced by museum archivists when managing large or diverse collections?

Museum archivists often encounter challenges such as limited storage space, preservation of delicate or aging materials, and the need to balance accessibility with security. Managing large or diverse collections requires meticulous organization and the adoption of digital cataloging systems to ensure accurate tracking and retrieval. Additionally, archivists must stay updated on best practices for preservation and digitization to protect artifacts while making them available for research and exhibitions.

Are museum archivists in demand?

Museum archivists are in steady demand due to ongoing needs for preserving and managing historical collections. Employment opportunities often depend on the size of the institution, funding, and the archivist's skills in cataloging, digital tools, and conservation. Job growth is expected to be steady, with competition for positions in larger or specialized museums.

What does a Museum Archivist do?

A Museum Archivist is responsible for preserving, organizing, and managing the historical records and documents of a museum. Their tasks include cataloging and maintaining archives, ensuring the proper storage and conservation of materials, and making these records accessible to researchers and the public. Archivists may also assist with exhibitions, digitalization projects, and educating staff or visitors about the museum's collections. Their work is essential for safeguarding the museum’s history and supporting research activities.

What is the average salary of an archivist?

The average salary of a museum archivist typically ranges from $40,000 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.

Can archivists work at museums?

Yes, museum archivists are employed to preserve, organize, and manage historical collections and records within museums. They often use specialized tools and require knowledge of archival standards, and may need relevant certifications or degrees in history, library science, or archival studies.
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Museum Archivist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Archivist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Locum Tenens, 17% As Needed, 14% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 29% Temporary, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,781 per year, or $35 per hour.
Archivist with Security Clearance

Archivist with Security Clearance

PTFS

Fort George G Meade, MD • On-site

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Archivist Archivist Position Summary: The Archivist will use the customer's Records Disposition Schedule (RDS) to make recommendations on the retention of federal records, arrange and describe permanent record collections, train and supervise Archives Technicians, coordinate projects with the customer, contribute to maintenance of the records database, and act as a customer service liaison. Essential Duties: * Create and prioritize lists of federal records eligible for permanent retention, and assign record groups to Archive Technicians. * Analyze record types, provenance, original order, context, and subject contents of federal records groups.
* Applythe Records Disposition Schedule (RDS) to make recommendations for the retention or destruction of permanent and temporary federal records.
* Communicate orally and in writing your analysis of federal record groups, applicable RDS, retention, and plan for arranging and describing permanent records.
* Create finding aids in the records database. Describe records in sufficient detail that they can beidentifiedand retrieved by the customer.
* Selectappropriate housingmaterials for various materialtypes andcoordinatearchival supply needs withcustomer.
* Prepare weekly reports on the status of ongoingprojects andcommunicate project status and concerns to customers during routine meetings.
* Train andassistArchives Technicians in the identification of recordtypes, material formats, provenance, original order, applicable RDS,arrangement, description, handling, housing, and preservation of federal records.
* Maintain a professional and courteous relationship withcustomers, andbe proactive in meeting expected goals and resolving problems.
Requirements: * An active/current TS/SCI Cl or FS Polygraph or ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearance. Work Location: * Fort Meade
Qualifications: * Experience as an Archivist, Archives Technician, or Records Management Officer.
* 0-2 years performing the duties of the position: Level A
* 2-4 years performing the duties of the position: Level B
* 4+ years preforming the duties of the position: Level C
* Master of Museum Studies, currently enrolled in a Master of Library Science or Museum Studies program, or Bachelor of Arts inlibrary scienceorarchival science.Possibly Masterof History.
* Good interpersonal communications skills, and the ability to work well as a team and individually
* Ability to read,analyzeand develop a working understanding of federal records, including highly technical or specialized records.
* Ability to manage multiple projects and team members and complete projects promptly.
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About PTFS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

It services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Rockville, MD, US

Year founded

1995

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