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Reference Archivist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ASBURY THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

Archivist

Wilmore, KY · On-site

Research & Reference Services * Serves as the primary point of contact for researchers using archival and special collections. * Provides research assistance and reference services related to ...

Library Systems & Services LLC

Archivist

Beltsville, MD · On-site

$60K - $72K/yr

Support reference inquiries by identifying relevant archival materials and retrieving collections from storage. * Contribute to outreach activities that promote awareness and use of the library ...

US Legislative Branch

Archivist

Washington, DC · On-site

$85K/yr

Knowledge of the principles, concepts, and techniques of archival work, including analysis ... Knowledge of reference and research services. Ability to build and maintain professional ...

State of Montana

Archivist Supervisor

Helena, MT · On-site

The Library & Archives Program is one of six administrative divisions of the Montana Historical ... Provide reference services, workshops, instructional educational sessions, and assistance for users ...

State of Washington

Lead Research Archivist

Olympia, WA · On-site

$69K - $93K/yr

Independently provides archival reference and research services to the public and government agencies and leads, or advises lower-level staff, on responses to complex requests. * Consults collection ...

State of Washington

Lead Research Archivist

Olympia, WA

$69K - $93K/yr

Independently provides archival reference and research services to the public and government agencies and leads, or advises lower-level staff, on responses to complex requests. Consults collection ...

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Reference Archivist information

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$11K

$52.5K

How much do reference archivist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for reference archivist in the United States is $52,194.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $52,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a reference archivist job description?

A reference archivist is responsible for assisting researchers and the public in locating and accessing archival materials. They evaluate, catalog, and preserve records, often using archival management software, and provide guidance on the use of collections. Strong organizational skills and knowledge of archival standards are essential for this role.

What is the average salary of an archivist?

The average salary of a reference archivist typically ranges from $45,000 to $70,000 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.

Will AI replace archivist?

AI can assist archivists by automating tasks such as cataloging, data entry, and digital preservation, but it is unlikely to fully replace the role. Archivists' expertise in context, interpretation, and decision-making remains essential for managing and preserving historical records effectively.

What is a Reference Archivist?

A Reference Archivist is a professional who assists researchers, students, and the public in accessing and interpreting archival materials. They manage requests for information, guide users in finding relevant documents, and ensure that archival records are preserved while being accessible. Reference Archivists often work in libraries, museums, government agencies, or historical societies, and may also create finding aids and educational materials to help users understand collections. Their expertise helps bridge the gap between archival resources and those who need them.

Is there a high demand for archivists?

The demand for archivists, including reference archivists, is expected to grow at a steady rate due to the increasing need to preserve digital and physical records. Employment opportunities are often found in government agencies, libraries, and museums, with strong skills in digital preservation and archival management enhancing job prospects.

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

To thrive as a Reference Archivist, you typically need a master's degree in library science or archival studies, along with strong research and organizational skills. Familiarity with archival databases, digital asset management systems, and metadata standards like EAD or MARC is essential. Exceptional communication, customer service, and problem-solving abilities help Reference Archivists assist diverse users and collaborate with colleagues. These competencies ensure efficient access to archival materials, preservation of historical records, and high-quality service to researchers and the public.

How does a Reference Archivist typically collaborate with researchers and other departments within an organization?

Reference Archivists work closely with researchers, historians, and internal departments to facilitate access to archival materials. They assist users in navigating finding aids, respond to reference queries, and provide guidance on handling and interpreting archival documents. Collaboration often involves coordinating with records managers, digital archivists, and conservation staff to ensure materials are accessible and preserved. This teamwork ensures that both internal stakeholders and external patrons can make the best use of archival collections.

What is the difference between Reference Archivist vs Archivist?

AspectReference ArchivistArchivist
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science or Archival Studies, certifications like CA or ALASimilar educational background, often with specialized archival certifications
Work EnvironmentPublic and academic libraries, archives, museumsArchives, historical societies, museums, government agencies
Job FocusAssisting users with research, managing reference collectionsPreserving, organizing, and maintaining archival collections
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared for roles involving user assistance and reference servicesMore focused on preservation and collection management

The main difference is that a Reference Archivist primarily assists users with research and reference services, while an Archivist focuses on preserving and organizing collections. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work in archival environments, but their core responsibilities differ in focus.

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What are popular job titles related to Reference Archivist jobs? For Reference Archivist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Reference Archivist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reference Archivist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 21% Locum Tenens, 5% As Needed, 72% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 5% Physical, and 95% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $52,194 per year, or $25.1 per hour.
Assistant Librarian: Reference Archivist/Curator

Assistant Librarian: Reference Archivist/Curator

Indiana University

Bloomington, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Position Details
Title
Assistant Librarian: Reference Archivist/Curator
Appointment Status
Tenure Track
Department
IU Northwest Library
Location
Northwest
Position Summary
The Assistant Librarian with the additional title as Reference Archivist/Curator is a 12-month, tenure-track position reporting to the Executive Director of Library Services. This position is responsible for advancing the mission of the IU Northwest Archives & Special Collections. The successful candidate will provide high-quality reference support and services to students, faculty, researchers, and community members. They will cultivate and sustain partnerships and donor relations both locally and abroad through outreach efforts, and develop exhibitions, displays, and public-facing projects that highlight the richness of our collections and the history of the Calumet Region. Working closely alongside the Digital Processing Archivist and library faculty, they will work to ensure seamless operations across public services, archival operations, and collection stewardship. This position has liaison responsibilities to academic departments, teaches information literacy sessions, general library reference duties, and participates in collection development activities for the library.
Responsibilities
  1. Serves as lead for archival reference services and inquiries, offering research support, contextual information, and patron assistance for campus and community users, and additionally provides general research assistance to Anderson Library patrons.
  2. Coordinates archival research appointments; and ensures timely, high-quality patron services.
  3. Conducts archival community engagement and donor relations, cultivating partnerships with local organizations, historical societies, and regional stakeholders to strengthen the Archives' role in Northwest Indiana.
  4. Works in tandem with the Digital Processing Archivist to meet the needs of the Archives through coordinated communication, shared documentation, and support for repository and its daily functions.
  5. Develops and implements public programs, including exhibits, displays, workshops, digital storytelling projects, and historical instructional sessions for community groups, and provides library tours and orientations.
  6. Provides historical expertise and contextualization for campus initiatives, faculty projects, public inquiries, and collaborative community efforts involving regional history, and contributes to general library instruction sessions as needed.
  7. Strengthens the visibility and relevance of the Archives, elevating awareness of collections through outreach strategies, marketing collaboration, social media storytelling, and campus/community engagement.
  8. Works collaboratively with library faculty and staff to align archival services with student success, campus engagement, and community-focused goals, and provides weekly support through reference and chat services.
  9. Provides joint supervision and mentorship of student workers and interns in collaboration with the Digital Processing Archivist, assisting in training them on archival tasks, reference procedures, scanning workflows, and related project work.
  10. Some evenings and weekends as required. Other duties as assigned.

ABOUT THE JOHN W. ANDERSON LIBRARY
The John W. Anderson Library serves a diverse population and is seeking applicants with excellent communication skills, previous reference experience and the ability to work well with various populations. The John W. Anderson Library serves undergraduate and graduate students and Indiana community residents.
The Library provides access to multiple information sources and services in support of student learning, faculty research, and community engagement. The library houses a collection of nearly half a million books and 200,000 government publications. The library has access to 350 online abstract or full-text journal databases, an online catalog of all IU libraries, online catalogs of local public and university libraries, 50,000 electronic journals, 230,000 e-books and audio books, online encyclopedias, and biography and statistical databases.
The Indiana University Northwest John W. Anderson Library is part of a nine-campus system. Through the Library, students have access to the 7 million volumes and 25 million other materials of the other IU libraries. Books and journal articles in Bloomington, Indianapolis and other regional campus libraries can be obtained quickly for students and faculty through the IU Northwest Library Interlibrary Loan Office.
ABOUT INDIANA UNIVERSITY NORTHWEST
One of nine campuses of Indiana University, IU Northwest is located in metropolitan Northwest Indiana, approximately 30 miles southeast of Chicago and 10 miles from the Indiana Dunes National Park. The campus has a student population of approximately 3,200 degree-seeking students and more than 30,000 alumni, most of whom remain in the Northwest Indiana region, and has been recognized by the Department of Education as a minority and Hispanic serving institution. The campus offers Associate, Baccalaureate, and Master's degrees from the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Health and Human Services, the School of Business and Economics, the School of the Arts, and the School of Education. The campus is also home to IU School of Medicine-Northwest-Gary, the region's only four-year medical doctorate program. As a student-centered campus, IU Northwest is committed to academic excellence characterized by a love of ideas and achievement in learning, discovery, creativity, research and community engagement.
Indiana University is an equal opportunity employer and provider of ADA services and prohibits discrimination in hiring.
Basic Qualifications
Required:
  • ALA-accredited M.L.S. or M.A. U.S. History, Archival Studies or Preservation Management
  • Minimum of two years experience in archives, manuscripts repository, or special collections
  • Knowledge of current and emerging trends, issues, workflows, and best practices in an archival environment
  • Basic knowledge of archival preservation and techniques
  • Good interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment, and to provide high-quality service to students and patrons
  • Ability to meet the requirements of a tenure-track appointment by exhibiting excellence in job performance and satisfactory performance in professional development/research and service
  • Formal training in archival theory and best practices
  • Experience in teaching information literacy and one-on-one instruction.

Preferred:
  • Knowledge of Northwest Indiana/ Calumet area history
  • Experience with community outreach, communications, or media creation (such as social media management, digital storytelling, or public-facing content)
  • Knowledge of archival restoration, repair, and stabilization techniques.
  • Experience in creating or installing physical displays or museum exhibits
  • Knowledge of American history and historiography
  • Academy of Certified Archivists certification
  • Experience with grant-seeking and fundraising opportunities.

Department Contact for Questions
Questions regarding the position or application process can be directed to the search committee chair: Nicholas A. Casas, Assistant Librarian for Teaching & Learning, John W. Anderson Library IU Northwest Library Services, 3400 Broadway, Gary, IN 46408, ncasas@iu.edu
Additional Qualifications
All candidates must be eligible to work in the United States as of the position start date. The department is unable to sponsor visas for this position. For questions about work eligibility, the search committee can connect you with the IU Office of International Services.
Salary and Rank
Salary is commensurate with experience and education.
Special Instructions
Interested candidates should review and complete the online applications that require uploading: 1) curriculum vitae; 2) letter of application; 3) statement of librarianship philosophy (listed as other); and (4) list of three references with contact information to include mailing address, e-mail address, and telephone numbers at https://indiana.peopleadmin.com/postings/32718
Review date begins May 15, 2026: (Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee).
Final date: May 29, 2026: Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.
For Best Consideration Date
Expected Start Date
07/01/2026
Posting Number
IU-101536-2026

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