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Processing Archivist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Archivist

Duluth, GA ยท On-site

What You'll Do As an Archivist, you'll work hands-on with legacy collections of all sizes ... You'll collaborate with clients and team members to process, preserve, and unlock the value of ...

What You'll Do As an Archivist, you'll work hands-on with legacy collections of all sizes ... You'll collaborate with clients and team members to process, preserve, and unlock the value of ...

Archivist

Northridge, OH ยท On-site

$4.2K - $6.2K/mo

Processes archival collections, including intellectual and physical arrangement. * Develops finding aids for manuscript and archival collections. * Engages in ongoing collection evaluation; works ...

Archivist

Northridge, OH ยท On-site

$4.2K - $6.2K/mo

Processes archival collections, including intellectual and physical arrangement. * Develops finding aids for manuscript and archival collections. * Engages in ongoing collection evaluation; works ...

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 ...

Archivist

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$73K - $85K/yr

Process correspondence, subject files, music manuscripts, photographs, audiovisual materials, scrapbooks, biographical materials, and related archival formats. * Rehouse materials into archival ...

Archivist

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$73K - $85K/yr

Process correspondence, subject files, music manuscripts, photographs, audiovisual materials, scrapbooks, biographical materials, and related archival formats. * Rehouse materials into archival ...

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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 Jul 16, 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.

Is there a high demand for archivists?

Processing archivists are in moderate demand as organizations seek to preserve and organize historical records and digital assets. Employment growth is expected to be steady, especially for those with skills in digital archiving, metadata, and familiarity with archival software. Opportunities are often found in museums, libraries, government agencies, and large corporations.

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 is the average salary of an archivist?

The average salary of a processing archivist typically ranges from $40,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Archivists with specialized skills or certifications may earn higher salaries, especially in larger institutions or urban areas.

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, but it is unlikely to fully replace the role. Archivists' expertise in context, interpretation, and decision-making remains essential for managing and preserving collections effectively.
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What states have the most Processing Archivist jobs? States with the most job openings for Processing Archivist jobs include:
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Infographic showing various Processing Archivist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 39% As Needed, 1% Full Time, 34% Temporary, and 25% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,181 per year, or $35.2 per hour.
Archivist/Archival Collections Specialist

Archivist/Archival Collections Specialist

Library Systems & Services LLC

Bethesda, MD โ€ข On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
LAC Federal is seeking a skilled Archivist / Archival Collections Specialist to support a federal library in Bethesda, Maryland. The Archivist will support the preservation, arrangement, description, digitization, and access of historical and biomedical archival collections in one of the world's premier medical research libraries. This position will support archival processing projects, metadata creation, reference and research services, digital initiatives, and collections management activities involving manuscripts, photographs, institutional records, audiovisual materials, and rare historical collections. The ideal candidate will possess strong archival processing and descriptive expertise, experience working in research or special collections environments, and familiarity with archival standards and digitization workflows within a federal or academic setting.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Arrange, describe, and process archival and manuscript collections in accordance with professional archival standards and local procedures.
  • Create and maintain archival finding aids, metadata records, and collection documentation using archival content management systems and databases.
  • Apply archival standards including DACS, EAD, MARC21, Dublin Core, and controlled vocabularies to support discovery and access.
  • Perform accessioning, rehousing, labeling, inventory control, and collections maintenance activities for archival and special collections materials.
  • Support digitization initiatives by preparing materials for scanning, conducting quality review, and creating or validating metadata for digital assets.
  • Conduct preservation assessments and recommend appropriate housing, handling, and stabilization procedures for archival materials.
  • Assist researchers, librarians, curators, and program staff with archival reference and research requests.
  • Conduct collection surveys and assist with backlog reduction and remediation projects.
  • Utilize integrated library systems, archival management systems, and digital repositories to manage and update collection information.
  • Prepare reports, statistics, and project documentation related to archival processing, digitization, and collections activities.
  • Assist with exhibitions, outreach activities, instructional sessions, and stakeholder engagement related to archival collections.
  • Adhere to federal records handling, information security, and preservation procedures while working with sensitive or historically significant collections.

Requirements
  • Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS/MLS) from an ALA-accredited institution with coursework or specialization in archives management, archival studies, or special collections; OR Master's degree in History, Museum Studies, Archival Studies, Public History, or a related discipline with demonstrated archival training.
  • Minimum of three (3) years of professional archival processing, description, or special collections experience in a library, archives, museum, academic, or federal environment.
  • Demonstrated experience arranging and describing archival collections using DACS and EAD standards.
  • Experience creating archival metadata and collection records using archival management systems or integrated library systems.
  • Knowledge of archival preservation principles, collections care practices, and proper handling procedures for rare and fragile materials.
  • Experience supporting digitization projects and digital collections workflows.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including ability to prepare clear documentation and communicate with researchers and stakeholders.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and work independently in a deadline-driven environment.
  • Proficiency using Microsoft Office Suite and standard archival or library technologies.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance and NIH badge.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Certified Archivist (CA) credential from the Academy of Certified Archivists.
  • Experience working with biomedical, scientific, medical, or federal government collections.
  • Experience using ArchivesSpace, Alma, Archivematica, Preservica, CONTENTdm, or other archival and digital repository systems.
  • Familiarity with MARC21, Dublin Core, MODS, PREMIS, or other metadata schemas.
  • Experience processing audiovisual, photographic, born-digital, or mixed-media collections.
  • Knowledge of digitization standards, OCR workflows, and digital preservation practices.
  • Experience conducting archival reference services in a research library or special collections environment.
  • Familiarity with federal records management and NARA guidance.
  • Reading knowledge of one or more foreign languages relevant to historical collections.
  • Experience participating in exhibits, public outreach, instruction, or scholarly engagement activities.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to lift, carry, and move archival boxes, records, and collection materials weighing up to 30 pounds, including frequent bending, reaching, and shelving activities.
  • Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while processing collections, preparing metadata records, conducting digitization support activities, and performing detailed computer-based archival work.
  • Ability to safely handle fragile, rare, and historically significant materials using established preservation and collections care procedures in archival, library, or special collections environments.

Benefits
  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Short Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Training & Development

EEO Statement
The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Nothing in this job specification restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.
To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently.
Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.
Salary Description
$65,000 - $80,000 annually