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Research Archivist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Indiana University

University Archivist

Bloomington, IN · On-site

The position advances institutional priorities related to student and faculty research as well as ... The University Archivist will support the full lifecycle of university records, which includes ...

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Research Archivist information

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$27.1K

$69.3K

$113.2K

How much do research archivist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 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.

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A Research Archivist is a professional responsible for collecting, preserving, and organizing historical documents and records to ensure their accessibility for research purposes.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 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 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.

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 database management can enhance job prospects.

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% Internship, 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,256 per year, or $33.3 per hour.

University Archivist

Bloomington, IN • On-site

Indiana University
See more jobs at Indiana Universityexternal

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 3 days ago

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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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