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Photo Archivist Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Photo Archivist information

See Alabama salary details

$25.8K

$66K

$107.9K

How much do photo archivist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for photo archivist in Alabama is $65,968.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,400.00 and $75,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the photo archivist position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Photo Archivist, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of archival principles, typically supported by a degree in library science, archival studies, or a related field. Familiarity with digital asset management systems (DAMS), image editing software such as Adobe Photoshop, and cataloging standards like Dublin Core is often required. Superior communication, problem-solving abilities, and a passion for preserving visual history are key soft skills that distinguish top performers. These competencies are essential for maintaining accurate, accessible photo archives and ensuring the long-term preservation of valuable photographic collections.

What is a photo archivist?

A Photo Archivist is responsible for organizing, preserving, and managing photographic collections in digital and physical formats. They catalog images, ensure their proper storage, and may restore or digitize old photographs for long-term preservation. Photo Archivists often work in museums, libraries, historical societies, or media organizations. Their role also includes maintaining metadata, researching historical context, and assisting with public or internal access to the collection.

What are some common challenges faced by photo archivists, and how are they addressed on the job?

Photo Archivists often encounter challenges such as managing large volumes of diverse image formats, digitizing fragile materials, and ensuring accurate metadata for easy retrieval. Addressing these issues typically involves staying up to date with best practices in digital preservation, actively collaborating with IT teams, and maintaining meticulous documentation. Many organizations provide ongoing training and encourage teamwork to resolve technical hurdles or workflow bottlenecks. As a Photo Archivist, you’ll regularly communicate with curators or researchers to prioritize tasks and ensure archival standards are met, making adaptability and proactive problem-solving valuable assets in this role.

What are popular job titles related to Photo Archivist jobs in Alabama? For Photo Archivist jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Photo Archivist jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Photo Archivist jobs in Alabama are:
Infographic showing various Photo Archivist job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 52% Full Time, 40% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,968 per year, or $31.7 per hour.

Archives Assistant

University of Montevallo

Montevallo, AL • On-site

$8/hr

Part-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Posting Details
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Position Information
Posting Number
Job Title
Archives Assistant
Department
Carmichael Library
Rate of Pay
$8.00 hourly
FLSA
Non-Exempt
Estimated Number of Hours Per Week
8 - 10
Employment Status
Part Time Temporary
Student Appointment Type
Work-Study
General Description
The Archives Assistant performs entry-level archival processing, scanning, and research assistance within the Milner Archives and Special Collections division of the Carmichael Library.
Essential Job Duties
1) Perform archival processing including creating inventories, file-level finding aids, re-housing materials in archival friendly containers (file folders, boxes, photo sleeves, etc.) and insuring the container is recorded per the Records Group alphanumeric system.
2) Scan materials which contributes both to digitization for the web and also in fulfilling research requests.
3) Provide multifaceted research assistance by helping the archivist locate and gather information and to research topics at the request of researchers such as students, faculty and staff, campus offices (primarily the President's Office, University Relations, and the UM Foundation), the town of Montevallo, alumni, and the general public. This also includes assisting the archivist in preparing for class visits, providing project support, and supervising the reshelving/rehousing of materials that have been used.
Education and Experience
High School Diploma or GED equivalent
Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities
1. Technical competence-ability to operate a scanner and ability to learn data preservation and management.
2. Customer service oriented and have basic knowledge of how to do research.
3. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
4. Ability to maintain confidentiality and use appropriate judgment in handling information and records.
5. Knowledge of or ability to learn content management systems and various metadata schema used in archival practice.
Preferred Major
History or other liberal arts degree
Licenses, Certification or Registrations
None
Number of Vacancies
Desired Start Date
Open Date
07/29/2026
Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Additional Statement
EEO Statement
UM is an Equal Employment Opportunity Institution.