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Research Archivist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Bsu

Design Records Specialist

Muncie, IN

$38K - $42K/yr

... archival materials for digitization, access, and discovery in the University Libraries' digital repositories; research, create, and record descriptive metadata for materials to be digitized and born ...

New

Ball State University

Design Records Specialist

Muncie, IN · On-site

$38K - $42K/yr

... archival materials for digitization, access, and discovery in the University Libraries' digital repositories; research, create, and record descriptive metadata for materials to be digitized and born ...

New

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All JobsResearch Archivist JobsResearch Archivist Jobs in Indiana

Research Archivist information

See Indiana salary details

$27.1K

$69.3K

$113.2K

How much do research archivist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for research archivist in Indiana is $69,256.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,900.00 and $79,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is there a high demand for research archivists?

Research archivists are in moderate demand, especially in institutions like museums, universities, and government agencies that require managing and preserving historical records. Employment growth is steady, and skills in digital archiving and metadata management increase job prospects.

What are some common challenges faced by research archivists when managing large or complex collections?

Research Archivists often encounter challenges such as organizing and preserving vast amounts of materials, ensuring accurate metadata, and balancing accessibility with the need to protect sensitive information. Handling born-digital and digitized records adds layers of complexity, requiring up-to-date technical skills and ongoing collaboration with IT staff. Additionally, Research Archivists regularly work with researchers and other departments to prioritize processing and respond to reference requests efficiently, making strong communication and project management skills essential.

What is a research archivist?

A Research Archivist is a professional responsible for collecting, preserving, and organizing historical documents and records to ensure their accessibility for research purposes. They assess, catalog, and maintain archives, often working in museums, libraries, universities, or governmental organizations. Research Archivists also assist researchers in locating and interpreting archival materials, ensuring the long-term preservation of valuable information. Their work is essential for maintaining historical records and supporting scholarly research.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research archivist?

To thrive as a Research Archivist, you need expertise in archival science, records management, and historical research, typically supported by a degree in library science or a related field. Familiarity with digital asset management systems, cataloging software, and standards like EAD and MARC, as well as certifications such as Certified Archivist (CA), are often required. Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and strong interpersonal communication help archivists manage collections and assist researchers effectively. These skills ensure the preservation, accessibility, and integrity of valuable historical records, supporting both institutional goals and scholarly research.

What is the difference between Research Archivist vs Archivist?

AspectResearch ArchivistArchivist
CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science, Archival Studies, or related fieldTypically a Bachelor's degree; some roles prefer a Master's or archival certification
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, universities, museums, or librariesArchives, museums, government agencies, or corporate records departments
Primary FocusManaging and providing access to research collections, supporting scholarly workPreserving, organizing, and maintaining historical records and documents
Common UsageUsed in academic, research, and cultural institutionsUsed in historical, governmental, and corporate settings

Research Archivists focus on supporting research activities by managing collections for scholarly access, while Archivists concentrate on preserving and organizing records for long-term retention. Both roles require similar credentials and often work in related environments, but their primary goals differ: research support versus preservation.

What are popular job titles related to Research Archivist jobs in Indiana? For Research Archivist jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Archivist jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Research Archivist jobs in Indiana are:
Research Archivist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Archivist job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,256 per year, or $33.3 per hour.

Assistant Librarian: Reference Archivist/Curator

Indiana University Academic Positions

Kokomo, IN

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

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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