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Processing Archivist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Your responsibilities will include leading collection assessments and content surveys, organizing and processing archival materials both physically and intellectually, and performing advanced ...

Your responsibilities will include leading collection assessments and content surveys, organizing and processing archival materials both physically and intellectually, and performing advanced ...

Organizing and processing archival materials, both physically and intellectually * Performing descriptive cataloging and applying metadata standards * Writing clear, accessible finding aids and ...

Your responsibilities will include leading collection assessments and content surveys, organizing and processing archival materials both physically and intellectually, and performing advanced ...

Organizing and processing archival materials, both physically and intellectually * Performing descriptive cataloging and applying metadata standards * Writing clear, accessible finding aids and ...

Organizing and processing archival materials, both physically and intellectually * Performing descriptive cataloging and applying metadata standards * Writing clear, accessible finding aids and ...

Organizing and processing archival materials, both physically and intellectually * Performing descriptive cataloging and applying metadata standards * Writing clear, accessible finding aids and ...

Organizing and processing archival materials, both physically and intellectually * Performing descriptive cataloging and applying metadata standards * Writing clear, accessible finding aids and ...

The Digital Archivist will advance library services through contributing to the management and processing of collections and by maintaining and advancing departmental descriptive standards, tools ...

Develop and finalize processing plans for collections * Apply archival principles and best practices to the arrangement, preservation, and description of materials * Identify preservation concerns ...

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Processing Archivist information

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$15

$35

$52

How much do processing archivist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for processing archivist in the United States is $35.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $46.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are archivists in high demand?

Processing archivists are in moderate demand, especially in institutions like museums, libraries, and government agencies that require managing and preserving historical records. Employment growth is steady, and skills in digital archiving and cataloging can improve job prospects.

How to become a processing archivist?

To become a processing archivist, typically a bachelor's degree in history, library science, or a related field is required, with many positions preferring a master's degree in archival studies or library science. Relevant skills include knowledge of archival management systems, attention to detail, and understanding of preservation techniques; certifications such as the Certified Archivist credential can enhance job prospects.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Processing Archivist?

As a Processing Archivist, your daily tasks often include surveying and appraising new collections, arranging and describing archival materials, and creating detailed finding aids or catalog records. You may also handle preservation activities such as rehousing documents or assessing conservation needs, work closely with other archivists or librarians, and support reference requests from researchers. This role often requires balancing independent project work with collaboration, especially when coordinating workflows with digitization teams or curators. Staying organized and adaptable helps ensure that collections are processed efficiently and are accessible to the community or organization.

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

To thrive as a Processing Archivist, you need expertise in archival theory, organizational systems, and attention to detail, typically backed by a degree in library science, archival studies, or a related field. Familiarity with collections management software such as ArchivesSpace, digital asset management systems, and standards like DACS or EAD is commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, adaptability, and clear written communication help Processing Archivists excel in documenting and organizing complex collections. These skills enable efficient preservation, accessibility, and accurate description of archival materials, which are essential for supporting research and institutional memory.

What does a Processing Archivist do?

A Processing Archivist arranges, describes, and preserves archival materials to make them accessible for research. They evaluate collections, organize documents, create finding aids, and apply preservation techniques to protect materials. Their work ensures that historical records are properly maintained and easily searchable by researchers, scholars, and the public.

Will AI replace archivist?

AI can assist processing archivists by automating tasks such as data organization, metadata tagging, and digitization. However, archivists' expertise in context, interpretation, and decision-making remains essential, making full replacement unlikely in the near future.

How much does an archivist get paid?

The average salary for a processing archivist typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Archivists with specialized skills or certifications may earn higher wages, especially in larger institutions or urban areas.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Processing Archivist jobs? The most popular types of Processing Archivist jobs are:
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What states have the most Processing Archivist jobs? States with the most job openings for Processing Archivist jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Processing Archivist jobs? For Processing Archivist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Processing Archivist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 15% As Needed, 1% Full Time, 72% Contract, and 12% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,181 per year, or $35.2 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Archivist 2
Tennessee Department of State
Tennessee State Library and Archives
Collection Services

Mission: The mission of the Office of the Secretary of State is to exceed the expectations of our customers, the taxpayers, by operating at the highest levels of accuracy, cost-effectiveness, and accountability in a customer-centered environment.
Supervisor: Collection Services Assistant Director
Summary: Process and catalog complex archival collections and assist other staff with use of descriptive standards. Work under the supervision of the Collection Services Assistant Director to maintain and improve the standards and workflow for the processing and cataloging of archival collections.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Process archival collections of increasing complexity and assist in overseeing group processing projects. Arrange and describe archival materials in accordance with Describing Archives: A Content Standard (DACS) and other relevant archival standards; ensure DACS compliance for finding aids.
  • Draft and edit finding aids for manuscript collections and state agency record groups.
  • Perform cataloging of archival materials, using proper descriptive language, DACS rules, and LC subject headings.
  • Perform input of bibliographic information using OCLC and TSLAโ€™s online catalog utility.
  • Assist with oversight of holdings management activities, including serving as stack puller as assigned.
  • Develop and maintain professional skills by participating in continuing education and professional development activities such as conferences, workshops, and committee work; by conducting research or writing for publication; or by engaging in other creative and learning activities.
  • Participate in job-related organizations such as STA, TAM, AASLH, CoSA, NAGARA, SARC, and SAA.
  • Assist with donor relations and the accessioning of manuscript collections.
  • Identify gaps in the manuscript collections and assist the section director in soliciting donations of archival materials.
  • Assist the section director in evaluating newly accessioned collections and setting priorities, processing depths, and preservation actions for the processing of materials.
  • Assist in the management of part-time staff, interns, and/or volunteers.
Minimum Qualifications:
Education and Experience:
  • Masterโ€™s degree in Library/Information Sciences or a related field from an accredited college or university.
  • A minimum of three years of experience working with archival collections, library special collections, or records management.
  • Demonstrated experience in archival arrangement and description.
  • Cataloging experience preferred.
  • Experience with ArchivesSpace preferred.
Knowledge and Abilities:
  • Knowledge and understanding of the process and principles of records appraisal and disposition and the basic principles of archival theory and practice.
  • Knowledge and experience with archival processing, including archival theory and best practices regarding arrangement and description.
  • Familiarity with DACS and EAD for finding aid creation.
  • Knowledge of archival and preservation concepts, methodology, and techniques.
  • Demonstrated competency in spreadsheet, database, and word-processing skills. Experience with Microsoft Office required.
  • Strong competency in English composition equivalent to that of a successful research paper at the graduate level.
  • Project management skills and experience.
  • Ability to work periodic Saturdays for stack retrieval tasks.
  • Highly motivated individual.
  • Excellent oral and written communications skills and the ability to work collegially.
  • Ability to work independently and with limited supervision.
  • Ability to read cursive and decipher 18th and 19th century handwriting.
  • Ability to lift and carry boxes of books and records weighing up to forty pounds.
Salary: $51,300 annually plus State of Tennessee benefits package.

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