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Special Collections Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rishabh RPO

Library Project Specialist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$21 - $27.75/hr

Archive and Special Collections Projects Support digitization projects for historical technical materials and special collections. Assist with projects related to preserving and showcasing historical ...

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Special Collections Assistant information

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How much do special collections assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for special collections assistant in the United States is $20.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a special collections assistant?

Special Collections Assistants are professionals who support the management, organization, and preservation of rare or unique materials in libraries, archives, or museums. Their responsibilities often include assisting with cataloging, handling rare books or documents, answering researcher queries, and helping maintain the security and proper storage of special collections. They play a crucial role in ensuring that valuable materials are accessible to researchers while also being protected for future generations. Additionally, they may help with exhibitions, digitization projects, and outreach activities related to the special collections.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a special collections assistant?

To thrive as a Special Collections Assistant, you need a background in library science, archival studies, or a related field, along with attention to detail and organizational skills. Familiarity with cataloging systems, digital archives platforms, and preservation techniques is typically required. Excellent communication, customer service, and problem-solving abilities help you support researchers and collaborate with colleagues. These skills are vital for protecting rare materials, ensuring accurate records, and providing effective access to special collections.

What challenges do special collections assistants face when handling rare or fragile materials?

Special Collections Assistants often encounter challenges such as carefully managing delicate or deteriorating items to prevent further damage, adhering to strict handling protocols, and ensuring proper environmental conditions like temperature and humidity. They must balance accessibility for researchers with preservation needs, which can require close collaboration with archivists and conservators. Staying organized while cataloging unique materials and responding to specialized research requests are also key aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Special Collections Assistant vs Archivist?

AspectSpecial Collections AssistantArchivist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in library science, history, or related fieldOften requires a master's degree in library science, archival studies, or related field
Work EnvironmentLibraries, museums, or academic institutions managing special collectionsArchives, museums, government agencies, or research institutions
ResponsibilitiesAssisting with collection processing, cataloging, and public serviceAppraising, acquiring, preserving, and managing archival records

While both roles involve handling collections and require knowledge of preservation, the Special Collections Assistant typically supports processing and public engagement, whereas the Archivist has a broader responsibility for managing and preserving archival records throughout their lifecycle.

What cities are hiring for Special Collections Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Special Collections Assistant job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Special Collections jobs?

The most popular types of Special Collections jobs are:

What states have the most Special Collections Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Special Collections Assistant jobs include:

Special Collections Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Special Collections Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,672 per year, or $20 per hour.

Special Research Collections - Student Library Assistant (Fall)

The University of Oklahoma

Norman, OK • On-site

$10/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

University Of Oklahoma rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

164th of 620 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Special Research Collections - Student Library Assistant (Fall)
Job no: 493851
Work type: Student
Location: Norman
Categories: Student
Pay Range: Targeted salary of $10/hour, based on education and experience.
Benefits Eligible: No
Work Schedule: Supervisor will work with student employee to find a work schedule that works around their class schedule.
Travel: Not required
Position Introduction:
Student Library Assistants in Bizzell Memorial Library 5th Floor Special Collections provide assistance to patrons using the History of Science Collections, the Bass Business History Collection, the John and Mary Nichols Collections, and the Bizzell Bible Collection. Duties include staffing the Welcome Desk and the Research Desk, greeting visitors, answering telephones, explaining reading room rules, and paging books for patrons. Student employees may also assist with digitization projects, filling interlibrary loan requests, stacks, maintenance, and other duties as assigned. Student employees may be asked to work an occasional evening or Saturday event.
Required Education and Experience:
Must be currently enrolled in the Fall Term as a student at the University of Oklahoma.
Hiring contingent upon verification of current student status.
Must attach Fall 2026 class schedule
Required Attachments:
  • Resume
  • Class Schedule
  • Available Hours

Skills:
  • Basic Computer skills
  • Customer service skills
  • Must be able to communicate effectively in written and oral English

Required Certifications and Licenses:
None
Department Preferences:
  • Preference will be given to students who are able to work in the position for more than one semester
  • Previous library work experience
  • Comfortable with a variety of software, database applications, and new information technologies

Hiring Contingent Upon a Background Check: Yes
Advertised: 19 Aug 2026 Central Daylight Time
Applications close: 11 Dec 2026 Central Standard Time
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About University of Oklahoma

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The University of Oklahoma is a prominent educational institution positioned in Norman, Oklahoma, US. Established in 1890, the university stakes a claim within the higher education industry and has a storied history of excellence in academics and research. Serving over 20,000 students, the university offers a wide range of programs across fields such as arts and sciences, business, engineering, international studies, and more. Emphasizing a dedication to unlocking potential, OU's mission is to provide the best possible educational experience to students through excellence in teaching, research, and creative activity. Notably, the institution has made significant strides in research with a focus on areas such as cancer, aerospace, and energy among others.

Industry

Education

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Norman, OK, US

Year founded

1890

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