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Reference Archivist Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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Reference Archivist information

See Washington, DC salary details

$12.5K

$59.5K

How much do reference archivist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for reference archivist in Washington, DC is $59,115.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,900.00 and $59,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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.

How much money does a reference archivist make?

A reference archivist's salary typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can be higher with specialized skills, certifications, or working in larger institutions.

Is there a high demand for reference archivists?

Reference archivists are in moderate demand as organizations seek to preserve and provide access to historical records and digital assets. Employment growth is steady, especially for those with strong research skills, familiarity with archival management software, and relevant certifications. Job opportunities are often found in museums, libraries, government agencies, and corporate archives.

What qualifications do you need as a reference archivist?

A reference archivist typically needs a bachelor's degree in history, library science, archival studies, or a related field; a master's degree is often preferred. Relevant skills include knowledge of archival management, cataloging, and familiarity with digital tools and databases. Certification from professional organizations can enhance job prospects, and experience with reference services is valuable.

What type of reference archivist makes the most money?

Senior or specialized reference archivists with advanced degrees, certifications, and extensive experience tend to earn the highest salaries. Archivists working in large institutions, government agencies, or with rare or valuable collections often have higher pay due to the complexity of their work and the level of expertise required.

What are popular job titles related to Reference Archivist jobs in Washington, DC?

For Reference Archivist jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Reference Archivist jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Reference Archivist jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Reference Archivist job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,115 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Full-time

Dental, Life

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Introduction

As an Archivist Trainee, the staff member will learn how to provide reference services in the Archives Search Room, interviewing patrons, determining research needs, advising of effective research strategies, ordering materials retrieved from the stacks, and taking records reproductions orders. An archivist trainee also will learn how to assist with monitoring patrons for security and compliance with the Archives rules and regulations. These duties are performed under the direct supervision of the Director of Reference and the Deputy Director. This is an entry level position learning professional archival work providing access to records, a primary component of the mission of the State Archives.\r\n

GRADE

12\r\n

LOCATION OF POSITION

350 Rowe Boulevard, Annapolis, MD 21401\r\n

Main Purpose of Job

As an archivist trainee, the staff member will learn how to provide reference services in the Archives Search Room, interviewing patrons, determining research needs, advising of effective research strategies, ordering materials retrieved from the stacks, and taking records reproduction orders. An archivist trainee also will learn how to assist with monitoring patrons for security and compliance with the Archives rules and regulations. These duties are performed under the direct supervision of the Director of Reference and the Deputy Director. This is an entry level position learning professional archival work providing access to records, a primary component of the mission of the State Archives.

POSITION DUTIES

Provides reference services in the Archives Search Room, interviewing patrons, determining research needs, advising of effective research strategies, ordering materials retrieved from the stacks, taking records reproduction orders, and performing records retrievals. Monitors patrons for security and compliance with Archives rules and regulations. Assists the Search Room Coordinator with training interns and volunteers.\r\n\r\n\r\nProvides reference assistance to patrons who make requests by telephone, traditional mail, and email by conducting basic research, and locating, retrieval, copying, and refiling archival records and writing response letters.\r\n\r\n\r\nAssists with the lobby registration desk as required when other trained personnel are unavailable.\r\n\r\n\r\nAssist in educational outreach, events, career day fairs, academic lectures, and etc.\r\n

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of a high school equivalency certificate.\r\nExperience:Four years of experience in professional archival work with publicrecords.\r\nNotes:\r\n1. Candidates may substitute academic credit from an accredited college or university at the rate of thirty credit hours for each year for the required experience.\r\n2. Candidates may substitute two years of experience in the Archival Assistant series classification for required education and experience.\r\n3.Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces military service experience as a commissioned officer in Archivist classifications or Archivist specialty codes in the Library and Archives field of work on a year-for-year basis for the required experience.\r\n\r\n

DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

1) Experience providing assistance to patrons who make requests by telephone, traditional mail, and email by conducting basic research, and locating, retrieving, copying, refiling archival records, and writing response letters\r\n\r\n\r\n2) Experience in educational outreach\r\n

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Employees may be required to lift up to 50 pounds when record shipments arrive and climb ladders. Employees in this classification must exercise caution during the retrieval and replacement of heavy volumes from library shelves, particularly when using library ladders. Employees may work a rotating shift and may be required to work Saturdays.\r\n

EXAMINATION PROCESS

The assessment may consist of a rating of your education, training, and experience related to the requirements of the position.It is important that you provide complete and accurate information on your application.Please report all experience and education that is related to this position.\r\n

BENEFITS

\r\nContractual employees who work for an agency covered under the State Employee and Retiree Health and Welfare Benefits Program, have a current employment contract and work 30 or more hours a week (or on average 130 hours per month) may be eligible for subsidized health benefits coverage for themselves and their dependents. As a contractual employee, you will be responsible for paying 25% of the premiums for your medical and prescription coverage, including any eligible dependents you have enrolled. The State of Maryland will subsidize the remaining 75% of the cost for these benefits. You can also elect to enroll in dental coverage, accidental death and dismemberment insurance, and life insurance, but will be responsible to pay the full premium for these benefits.\r\nLeave may be granted to a contractual employee at a rate of one hour for every 30 hours worked, not to exceed 40 hours per calendar year.\r\n\r\n

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

Online applications are highly recommended. However, if you are unable to apply online,the paper application and supplemental questionnaire may be submitted to:Department of Budget and Management, Recruitment andExamination Division, 301 W. Preston St., Baltimore, MD 21201.Paper application materials must be received in our officeby theclosing date for the recruitment. No postmarks will be accepted.\r\nFor questions regarding this recruitment, please contact theDBM Recruitment andExamination Division at Application.Help@maryland.govor 410-767-4850,MD TTY Relay Service 1-800-735-2258.\r\nWe thank our Veterans for their service to our country.\r\nPeople with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.\r\nAs an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruitment, retaining and promoting employees who are reflective of the State's diversity.\r\n

Employment Type: Full-Time