Reference Archivist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Library & Archives Program is one of six administrative divisions of the Montana Historical Society (MTHS). It has custody over and the management of the most comprehensive collection of both published and primary source materials pertinent to the study of the history of Montana and the region. The Program is composed of three sections, the Library, the Archives, and the Photograph Archives. The Archives is charged with identifying and collecting non-public records, manuscripts, and documents of historic significance. The Archives is also responsible, by statute, for the collection, organization and preservation of state government and local government records with historic significance. Archives staff acquire, analyze, arrange, and preserve these materials in order to make them available to the public.  Government records provide both public accountability as well as documenting significant events in Montana past and present.

The State Archivist is a statutory position appointed by the Montana Historical Society Director and approved by the Board of Trustees but reports to the Library and Archives Manager.  The State Archivist is responsible for the management of the Archives section of the Library and Archives program, supervising staff of 5.5 FTE.  The State Archivist oversees the operation of the Archives, including the evaluation, acquisition, arrangement, description, preservation, and accessibility of Archives collections.  The State Archivist is also a member of the State Records Committee and the State Local Government Committee providing guidance and expertise on records management. 

Representative Duties:  

• Preserve collections such as artifacts, artwork, records, photographs, or other materials using professional preservation methods. 

• Organize, identify, catalog, describe, and classify collections to allow easy access to information. 

• Research, locate, negotiate, and acquire new materials for permanent collections, exchange, or loan. 

• Authenticate and appraise collections for historical significance. 

• Create, administer, and maintain cataloging, and databases, incorporating current advances in electronic information technology. 

• Implement policies and procedures for public access to and use of collections.  

• Provide reference services, workshops, instructional educational sessions, and assistance for users needing access to collections.  

• Research and record the origins and historical significance of collections.  

• May create digital reproductions of collections for preservation and/or access.  

• May plan and organize the exhibition of collections, including selecting exhibition themes and designs, developing, or installing exhibit materials.  

• Provides consultation to other institutions about conservation and preservation of archival materials. 

• Determines priority for archival collection processing based on agency standards, historical significance, and professional standards. 

• Establish and administer policies and procedures for public access and use of archival materials, considering their effect on the historical objects.  

• Address escalated reference inquires and complaints.

Knowledge of: 

• Modern archival theory, standards, practices and their implementation 

• Digitization theories, practices and standards 

• Preservation theories, practices and standards 

• Digital preservation software  

• Electronic information management systems (Preservica, ArchivesSpace, SirsiDynix Enterprise and Workflows) 

• Archival description and cataloging standards such as DACS, EAD and MARC 

• Current conservation practices 

• Management principles and practices 

• Montana and/or western United States history

Ability to: 

• Effectively communicate both simple and complex ideas, orally and in writing 

• Research 

• Successfully work with a variety of people

Education:  

• Master's degree in history, museum studies, library science, archival studies or related field. 

Experience:  

• Two years of supervisory experience  

• Five years of job-related work experience 

• Other combinations of education and experience may be substituted. 

Minimum Physical/Mental Requirements:  

• May travel extensively to evaluate potential archival documents, provide education assistance, and conduct research. 

• May require lifting bulky, heavy record containers, up to 35 pounds. 

• May require frequent contact with the public. 

Hours of Operation:

The Montana Heritage Center operates seven days a week and is open all holidays except Thanksgiving and Christmas.

As an employee of the Montana Historical Society your work hours may fall outside of a regular Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. schedule.

In accordance with HB 13, this position will receive a $1.00 per hour raise beginning July 1, 2026

The following documents must be submitted to be considered for this position (be sure to mark each attachment as relevant):  

• Cover Letter 
• Resume 
• State of Montana Application 

Montana Historical Society is participating in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. After accepting a job offer and completing Form I-9, your information will be submitted to the Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration for verification. For more information about E-Verify, please visit the E-Verify website found here, https://www.e-verify.gov/