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Research Archivist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Research Analyst

Quantico, VA · On-site

$70 - $100/hr

Archive records required for Process for the Accreditation of Joint Education reviews and other accrediting bodies at CDET Headquarters. * Collaborate with MCU Institutional Research, Assessment and ...

Genex Systems

Hydraulics Research Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$80K - $124K/yr

... and archiving completed work • Prepare technical publications, including FHWA research reports, journal articles, conference papers, and technical presentations What You'll Need (Required) • ...

Genex Systems

Hydraulics Research Engineer

Mclean, VA

$80K - $124K/yr

... and archiving completed work Prepare technical publications, including FHWA research reports, journal articles, conference papers, and technical presentations What You'll Need (Required) Master ...

Genex Systems

Hydraulics Research Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$80K - $124K/yr

... and archiving completed work Prepare technical publications, including FHWA research reports, journal articles, conference papers, and technical presentations What You'll Need (Required) Master ...

Genex Systems

Hydraulics Research Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$80 - $124/hr

Manage assigned research projects end-to-end: defining requirements, building research plans and schedules, documenting test notes, and archiving completed work * Prepare technical publications ...

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Research Archivist information

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$28.3K

$72.2K

$118K

How much do research archivist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for research archivist in Virginia is $72,157.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $82,800.00 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A Research Archivist is a professional responsible for collecting, preserving, and organizing historical documents and records to ensure their accessibility for research purposes.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 Virginia?

For Research Archivist jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Archivist jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Archivist jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Research Archivist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Research Archivist job openings:

Research Archivist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Archivist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,157 per year, or $34.7 per hour.

Student Archival Stacks Assistant - Federal Work Study (Student Wage)

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

The University of Virginia
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

210th of 627 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about The University of Virginiaexternal

$16.71/hr

Part-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

**Federal work-study students only**

Overview:

This position reports to the Archivist in Technical Services unit and requires a minimum commitment of 7 hours per week while reliably maintaining a work schedule. The work area's temperature is generally below 65 degrees Fahrenheit to better preserve the collections, so employees should dress accordingly.

Main duties:

  • Organize and shift archival boxes and other materials according to complex shelving arrangements.

  • Confirm call numbers against library catalog records and shelve newly cataloged archival materials.

  • Label and barcode boxes and ensure accuracy with inventories.

  • Assist in the preparation of collection materials for transfers to off-site storage.

  • When needed, properly retrieve manuscript, university archive, and rare book materials for researcher requests and use in the reading room. This work includes working and communicating with Public Services staff.

  • Additional duties may include individual projects assisting Technical Services team members as necessary.

Required Qualifications:

The ability to handle rare and special materials with care is required. This position requires excellent organizational skills, experience using Microsoft Word and Excel, the ability to lift boxes that weigh up to 40 lbs., working in a cold environment, and the ability to use ladders, book trucks, and other types of library equipment to retrieve and reshelve materials. The ability to handwrite neatly and legibly is also required and a handwriting sample may be requested.

Good communication skills; reliability in scheduling; accuracy and attention to detail; ability to multi-task and finish tasks in a timely manner; ability to use strong analytical skills; ability to work and solve problems independently, as well as closely with others; ability to work in a restrictive, high security environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience working in a special collections library or archive, or any library work experience; familiarity with the Library of Congress Classification system; experience with reading varied call number systems; familiarity with 18th, 19th, and 20th century materials; familiarity with rare book and archival principles and practices; familiarity with U.S. and Virginia history, or American literature. Foreign language skills are a plus.

Compensation: $16.71/hr. Available to undergraduate and graduate students beginning August 25, 2026, and ending May 14, 2027.

Scheduled Hours: 10 hours per week. Working hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday.

For more information about the Albert & Shirley Small Special Collections Library, please visit http://small.library.virginia.edu/

Passing a background check is required for this position.


MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Resume required. Cover letter optional.
Education: Current UVA students. Federal Work-Sudy required.
Experience: None
Licensure: None

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The ability to handle rare and special materials with care is required. The ability to lift boxes that weigh up to 40 lbs., working in a cold environment, and the ability to use ladders, book trucks, and other types of library equipment to retrieve and reshelve materials.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.

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About University of Virginia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819

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