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Reference Archivist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Spelman College

Assistant Archivist

Atlanta, GA · On-site

... with reference requests, and help coordinate outreach activities such as instruction, programming, and exhibits. Essential Duties and Responsibilities * Arrange material in alphabetical ...

Spelman College

Assistant Archivist

Atlanta, GA · Remote

... with reference requests, and help coordinate outreach activities such as instruction, programming, and exhibits. Essential Duties and Responsibilities * Arrange material in alphabetical ...

Austintexas

Archivist II - Audiovisual

Austin, TX

Provides archival reference and research services. * Assists with the acquisition and appraisal of collections by helping to determine whether the * collection or acquisition is suitable for ...

Carl Acrl

Processing Archivist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$74.75 - $105.70/hr

Processing Archivist Job #JPF11168 - University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Location: Los ... Reference check authorization release form. * Three to five professional references (contact ...

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 · 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

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 ...

Studio Museum in Harlem

Archivist

New York, NY · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

Monitor Archives email and respond to external reference requests Education and Experience * MS in Library Science with focus on Archives * BA with an area of concentration in history, particularly ...

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 ...

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$52.5K

How much do reference archivist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,194 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Assistant Archivist

Spelman College

Atlanta, GA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 17 hours ago

Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and must maintain authorization throughout employment. This position is not eligible for sponsorship.
This position is contingent upon the availability of sufficient funding.
Position Title
Assistant Archivist
Position Summary
Under the supervision of the College Archivist, the Assistant Archivist will oversee the planning and implementation of physical and digital archival processing for the Spelman Archives, assist with reference requests, and help coordinate outreach activities such as instruction, programming, and exhibits.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Arrange material in alphabetical, chronological or subject order in accordance with a predetermined plan of arrangement
  • Perform routine preservation work, including identifying and photocopying unstable material; removing paper clips, staples, rubber bands, and other damaging materials
  • Prepare and input/type item-level inventory list of the physical contents of archival collections
  • Assist with the physical receipt, shelving and relocation of archival collections
  • Prepare transfer documentation for college departments and acknowledgement correspondence for donors to the Archives
  • Performs core archival processing and collection management functions including processing digital and physical archival collections and assists with other departmental needs and projects
  • Assist with data entry for physical and digital archival collections in ArchivesSpace
  • Assist in supervising undergraduate student workers in the Archives
  • Assist with responding to reference inquiries and working with patrons in the Archives Reading Room

Required Qualifications
  • A Master's degree in library or information science from an ALA--accredited program or a Master's degree in history or a related field from an accredited program
  • Graduate level coursework in archival management & theory
  • Demonstrated knowledge of archival theory and practice, including experience processing archival records
  • Knowledge of relevant standards for archival description including DACS, EAD and EAC-CPF
  • Excellent leadership and organizational skills and ability to plan, coordinate, and implement complex projects
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with a variety of staff in a rapidly changing environment
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Knowledge of history and culture of the African Diaspora
  • Experience working with digital content management systems

Preferred Qualifications
Experience with research and reference services in an archives or manuscript repository
Experience working with born digital and digitized archival records
Experience working with ArchivesSpace
Certifications, Licenses, Restrictions
None
Physical Demands
Ability to lift boxes weighing up to 40 lbs.
Sitting, walking, assisting researchers in the reading room
Shift
Days
% Travel Required
1% - 25%
Full Time/Part Time
Full-time
Work Location/Schedule:
This position requires onsite work and is not eligible for remote work.
FLSA
Exempt
Number of Vacancies
1
Anticipated Candidate Start Date
Position End Date
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
SC0915P
Posting Open Date
07/24/2026
Posting Closing Date
Open Until Filled
No
Special Instructions to Applicants
EEO Statement
Spelman College is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are a smoke-free campus.

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