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Senior Archivist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

State of Hawai'i

ARCHIVIST III - OAHU

Honolulu, HI

$5.1K - $7.2K/mo

Salary: $5,107 to $ 6,221 per month (SR-20, Step D to I) Note: Hiring rates will be based on ... Duties Summary Independently performs professional archival work and assumes responsibility for the ...

The Chickasaw Nation

Archival Technician

Sulphur, OK · On-site

Research, plans, develops and implements long and short-range goals for the archives department with approval from Senior Manager, Archives and Director * Operates computer systems, standard office ...

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Senior Archivist information

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$25K

$80.3K

$163.5K

How much do senior archivist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior archivist in the United States is $80,287.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,500.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Senior Archivist vs Archivist?

AspectSenior ArchivistArchivist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Archival Science, Library Science, or related field; experience often requiredSimilar educational background; entry-level or less experience needed
Work EnvironmentInstitutions like museums, libraries, government agencies, with leadership responsibilitiesSimilar environments, often focusing on organizing and maintaining collections
ResponsibilitiesOverseeing archival projects, mentoring staff, developing policiesProcessing collections, cataloging, maintaining archives

The main difference is that a Senior Archivist typically has more experience, leadership duties, and strategic responsibilities, while an Archivist focuses on day-to-day collection management. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, but the Senior Archivist plays a supervisory and planning role within the organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Archivist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Archivist, you need expertise in archival science, records management, and preservation, usually backed by a master's degree in library science or a related field. Familiarity with digital asset management systems, cataloging software, and metadata standards such as EAD or MARC is typically required. Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and strong communication abilities help you lead projects and collaborate across departments. These skills are vital for ensuring the integrity, accessibility, and long-term preservation of valuable historical records.

What are some typical challenges Senior Archivists face when managing large collections, and how can they be addressed?

Senior Archivists often encounter challenges such as handling vast quantities of materials, ensuring proper preservation, and implementing efficient cataloging systems. Balancing the need for accessibility with the protection of sensitive or fragile documents requires careful planning and adherence to best practices. Collaborating with IT professionals to adopt digital archiving solutions and providing ongoing staff training are effective strategies to address these challenges and maintain high standards in archival management.

What are Senior Archivists?

Senior Archivists are professionals responsible for overseeing the collection, preservation, and organization of historical records and documents within an archive. They manage archival staff, develop policies and procedures, and ensure that materials are accessible to researchers and the public. Senior Archivists also play a key role in acquiring new collections, preserving fragile materials, and implementing digital archiving solutions. Their expertise ensures the long-term protection and accessibility of important records for future generations.
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Senior Archivist jobs near you
Archivist I, Tree Ring Laboratory

Archivist I, Tree Ring Laboratory

University of Arizona

Tucson, AZ • On-site

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

University Of Arizona rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

343rd of 553 rated colleges and universities

Job description

In this role, you will:

  • Assist in identifying National Park Service (NPS) materials that have permanent value for various record groups, including cultural and natural resources, under guidance.
  • Help process materials for each project that are sourced from different external contacts and locations introduced by supervisors, and assist in arranging for the materials to be sent to the Western Archeological and Conservation Center (WACC).
  • May occasionally accompany senior staff on trips to nearby sites to observe and learn how to interact with contacts and identify, select, and package materials.
  • Under supervision, help organize, digitize, and catalog received materials into the appropriate government databases at WACC.
  • Assist in processing, arranging, and cataloging NPS archival records into the Museum Cataloging Management System (MCMS), following established procedures and standards under the guidance.
  • Under supervision, assist in handling rare and fragile photographic materials.
  • Learn and apply basic cataloging procedures and preservation techniques.
  • Work with collections from various locations across the country, including but not limited to WACC collections. 
  • Assist in identifying the preservation needs of both paper-based and digitally based archival records under the guidance. The role focuses on developing attention to detail and understanding of preservation standards, with guidance and oversight.
  • Learn specialized classification systems and their application to various materials while developing basic preservation assessment and classification skills.
  • Receive training on new systems and develop proficiency over time with regular support and instruction from experienced staff.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Ability to work as part of a team in completing assignments both at WACC as well as at selected NPS units.
  • Familiarity with National Park Service policies and procedures including Director's Order 19 (Records Management), the National Park Service's Museum Handbook, NPS-28 (Cultural Resources Guidelines) and NPS-77 (Natural Resources Guidelines).
  • Knowledge of the National Park Service's Museum Cataloging Management Software (MCMS).
  • Knowledge of Voyager library program and Library of Congress cataloging principles.
  • Knowledge of archival principles set forth by the Society of American Archivists and other leading institutions.

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