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Project Archivist Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Reporting to the Lloyd Lewis Curator of Modern Manuscripts and Archives, the Project Archivist will arrange, preserve, house, and describe the archives of Links Hall. This role is limited to no more ...

Posted today

In partnership with colleagues, the Processing Archivist will plan and manage large and small-scale processing projects, accession new materials, supervise student workers, coordinate with donors ...

In partnership with colleagues, the Processing Archivist will plan and manage large and small-scale processing projects, accession new materials, supervise student workers, coordinate with donors ...

The Archive Records Analyst provides leadership for high-priority, complex initiatives supporting ... Monitor and report on global deployment project plans / deliverables as required for management

The Archive Records Analyst provides leadership for high-priority, complex initiatives supporting ... Monitor and report on global deployment project plans / deliverables as required for management.

The Archive Records Analyst provides leadership for high-priority, complex initiatives supporting ... Monitor and report on global deployment project plans / deliverables as required for management

The Archive Records Analyst provides leadership for high-priority, complex initiatives supporting ... Monitor and report on global deployment project plans / deliverables as required for management

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Project Archivist information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$5

$23

$31

How much do project archivist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for project archivist in Chicago, IL is $23.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.85 and $31.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a project archivist?

Project Archivists are professionals who manage, organize, and preserve collections of historical documents, records, or artifacts for a specific project or limited duration. They typically appraise, arrange, describe, and provide access to materials, ensuring their long-term preservation and accessibility. Project Archivists may work in museums, libraries, universities, corporations, or government agencies, often focusing on a particular collection or archival initiative. Their work is essential for maintaining the integrity and usability of valuable records and historical materials.

What are some common challenges faced by project archivists when managing large-scale archival projects?

Project Archivists often encounter challenges such as handling unorganized or fragile materials, balancing preservation with access needs, and meeting tight project deadlines. They must also navigate varying metadata standards and coordinate with multiple stakeholders, including donors and institutional staff. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and adaptability are essential for overcoming these hurdles and ensuring successful project completion.

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

To thrive as a Project Archivist, you need expertise in archival theory and practice, information organization, and a degree in library science, archival studies, or a related field. Familiarity with archival management systems (such as ArchivesSpace), digitization tools, and relevant metadata standards like DACS or EAD is typically required. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication help ensure materials are accurately processed and described. These skills are crucial for preserving and providing access to valuable historical records efficiently and according to best practices.

What are popular job titles related to Project Archivist jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Project Archivist jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Project Archivist job openings in Chicago, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $48,111 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Project Archivist

Chicago, IL • Remote

Newberry Library
Libraries and Archives • 51 - 200 employees

$44K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 hours ago

Posted today


Job description

TO APPLY: Interested candidates should attach a cover letter and resume, both as PDF documents, to their application in the Newberry Career Center. Applications sent without both a resume and cover letter will not be considered. To be considered for this role, applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship. If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable to apply for a job on this site as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by email.

ABOUT THE NEWBERRY: The Newberry collection—some 1.6 million books, 600,000 maps, and 5 million manuscript pages—is a portal to more than six centuries of human history, from the Middle Ages to the present. We connect researchers and visitors with our collection in the Newberry’s reading rooms, exhibition galleries, program spaces, classrooms, and online digital resources.

Since its founding in 1887, the Newberry has remained dedicated to deepening our collective understanding of ourselves and the world around us. As individuals engage with Newberry collections and staff, they discover stories that bridge the past and present and illuminate the human condition.

The Newberry’s community of discovery is driven by a shared commitment to promoting research, inspiring learning, and using inquiry across the humanities as a tool to engage critically in a vibrant democratic society.

SUMMARY: Reporting to the Lloyd Lewis Curator of Modern Manuscripts and Archives, the Project Archivist will arrange, preserve, house, and describe the archives of Links Hall. This role is limited to no more than one year in duration.


RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Arrange, preserve, and re-house physical collection according to archival principles and practices.
  • Create descriptive inventories and perform authority work for names, subjects, places, and genre terms.
  • Assist in outreach and communications activities such as collection presentations and preparing social media posts.


QUALIFICATIONS:

Required:

  • Current enrollment in or completion of MLIS or comparable graduate degree.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills and interpersonal skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently, collaboratively, and productively in a busy environment.
  • Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.


Preferred:

  • One-two years of experience working with manuscript and archival collections.
  • Knowledge of archival management systems and digital asset management systems.
  • Interest in Chicago history and/or performing arts history.


PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Physical strength, mobility, and endurance with the ability to lift up to 40 pounds occasionally. Physical ability to print neatly and legibly with pencil. Visual ability to read print and cursive handwriting.

 

SCHEDULE: This is a full-time, exempt position, working 35 hours a week, with normal hours generally from 9:00AM-5:00PM, Monday through Friday or Tuesday through Saturday. Work outside of these hours may be required. The incumbent will be required to work onsite. The time period will be November 2026 – October 2027.


BENEFITS: For more information, please see the "What We Offer" section on the Newberry Careers page.

THE NEWBERRY LIBRARY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. 

For more information, please see the Newberry Careers page (https://www.newberry.org/careers).