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Reference Archivist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Heritage Werks, Inc.

Research Archivist

Duluth, GA · On-site

We'rehiring an Archivist who brings equal parts of precision and curiosity. Someone who thrives on ... Conducting thorough reference interviews to clarify research needs, define scope, and provide ...

Heritage Werks, Inc.

Research Archivist

Suwanee, GA · On-site

Conducting thorough reference interviews to clarify research needs, define scope, and provide ... MLIS with Cataloging and/or Archives Specialization * Certified Archivist (CA) designation ...

Heritage Werks, Inc.

Research Archivist

Suwanee, GA · On-site

Conducting thorough reference interviews to clarify research needs, define scope, and provide ... MLIS with Cataloging and/or Archives Specialization * Certified Archivist (CA) designation ...

Heritage Werks, Inc.

Research Archivist

Duluth, GA · On-site

Conducting thorough reference interviews to clarify research needs, define scope, and provide ... MLIS with Cataloging and/or Archives Specialization * Certified Archivist (CA) designation ...

Heritage Werks, Inc.

Research Archivist

Duluth, GA

Conducting thorough reference interviews to clarify research needs, define scope, and provide ... MLIS with Cataloging and/or Archives Specialization * Certified Archivist (CA) designation ...

Heritage Werks, Inc.

Research Archivist

Suwanee, GA · On-site

Conducting thorough reference interviews to clarify research needs, define scope, and provide ... MLIS with Cataloging and/or Archives Specialization * Certified Archivist (CA) designation ...

Heritage Werks, Inc.

Research Archivist

Duluth, GA · On-site

Conducting thorough reference interviews to clarify research needs, define scope, and provide ... MLIS with Cataloging and/or Archives Specialization * Certified Archivist (CA) designation ...

Northwest Archivists

WI · On-site

Provide reference services, workshops, instructional educational sessions, and assistance for users ... Determines priority for archival collection processing based on agency standards, historical ...

Colgate University

University Archivist

Hamilton, NY · On-site

$65K/yr

University Archivist Reports to: Associate Director of Special Collections and University Archives ... Provide reference and instruction services to members of the Colgate community and other ...

Wheaton College

Processing Archivist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K/yr

WHEATON ARCHIVES & SPECIAL COLLECTIONS - PROCESSING ARCHIVIST Position Summary The Wheaton Library ... Provide Manuscripts Reading Room desk coverage on occasion, and support reference and research ...

Wheaton College

Processing Archivist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K/yr

WHEATON ARCHIVES & SPECIAL COLLECTIONS - PROCESSING ARCHIVIST Position Summary The Wheaton Library ... Provide Manuscripts Reading Room desk coverage on occasion, and support reference and research ...

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$52.5K

How much do reference archivist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 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?

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.
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Reference Archivist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reference Archivist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,194 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

University Archivist

Bloomington, IN • On-site

Indiana University
See more jobs at Indiana Universityexternal

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Position Details
Title
University Archivist
Appointment Status
Tenure Track
Department
IU Indianapolis University Library
Location
Indianapolis
Position Summary
IU Indianapolis University Library seeks a University Archivist to join the Ruth Lilly Special Collections and Archives, part of Distinctive Collections.
The University Archivist reports to the Director of Distinctive Collections and works collaboratively with library colleagues, faculty, and Indiana University partners to collect and provide access to university records. The position advances institutional priorities related to student and faculty research as well as community engagement and collaboration. This position will work with records of all types, including born-digital records such as websites, emails, and digital files, as well as audio-visual material. The University Archivist will support the full lifecycle of university records, which includes liaising with staff and faculty units about records management policies and the value of institutional records before transfer to the archives, as well as providing education and reference to researchers using these records of permanent value.
Responsibilities
  • Actively collect university records deemed of permanent value, including born digital materials and university websites
  • Supervise and perform University Archives collection management activities: accessioning, processing, preservation, and creation of finding aids, including training and supervising student workers to assist in this work
  • Provide reference services for University Archives, assisting virtual and in-person researchers (faculty, students, staff, and other researchers) in using university records
  • Liaise with campus offices on the interpretation and implementation of records retention schedules
  • Manage web archiving of university websites, including appraising URLs and setting appropriate capture schedules
  • Promote interest in the history of IUI/IUPUI and the historic neighborhoods predating the campus, through reference, instruction, and outreach efforts
  • Collaborate with Ruth Lilly Special Collections & Archives department members to improve service, provide access to collections, develop policies and procedures, and move department initiatives forward

Secondary responsibilities
  • Participate in development of records management policies in partnership with other campus archivists and the University Records Manager
  • Serve as a member of the Digital Collections Advisory Group, which is charged with setting priorities, establishing best practices for digital collections creation, and evaluating potential digital collections projects
  • Participate in University Library planning and decision-making activities
  • Participate in University Library and campus faculty organizations
  • Represent the library in local, state, and national library venues as appropriate.
  • Participate in library and university initiatives that advance campus and community engagement with distinctive collections
  • Support the mission, vision, values, and strategic priorities of University Library.

Basic Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • Master's degree from an ALA-accredited Library/Information Science program or an equivalent degree
  • Minimum 2 years of professional experience in archives, including internships and part-time employment
  • Proven success in archives, including knowledge and experience in archival best practices, principles, and current trends, including born digital records
  • Experience processing large or complex archival collections and creating access tools (finding aids) for these collections
  • Excellent communication, collaboration, and project management skills
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with a team environment

Preferred Qualifications
  • Knowledge of records management
  • Knowledge of web archiving
  • Experience with digital collections, including digital formats and digitization procedures
  • Knowledge of EAD (Encoded Archival Description)

Department Contact for Questions
Shauna Winter, HR Business Partner, shwint@iu.edu
Additional Qualifications
Salary and Rank
Special Instructions
For Best Consideration Date
Expected Start Date
01/01/2027
Posting Number
IU-101641-2026

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