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Link to post:  https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/Details/3855794/DETROIT-SOUND-CONSERVANCY/Digital-Archivist

About Detroit Sound Conservancy

Detroit Sound Conservancy is a community-based archive dedicated to preserving, activating, and celebrating Detroit's singular and definitive musical heritage. Through archival preservation practices, engaged education initiatives, and intergenerational live performance programming, DSC gives access to and preserves the vivid memory of musical movements, uplifts the agency of artistic legacies, counteracts reductive representation, and puts listening at the center of community.

Position Summary 

The Archivist will serve as the primary steward of Detroit Sound Conservancy's collections, managing both digital and physical materials while building meaningful relationships with donors and community members. This role requires a detail-oriented, proactive and collaborative person with exceptional organizational skills, hands-on expertise in audio-visual preservation workflows, and the ability to work sensitively and effectively with Detroit's music community—particularly elders and families who are entrusting their legacies to DSC's care. The Archivist will be responsible for the management, preservation, and access to the organization's digital assets, including born-digital materials and digitized collections, ensuring their long-term integrity, authenticity, and usability for current and future generations. The Archivist will lead the implementation of new archival management systems, refine existing and develop new workflows, conduct regular field visits to acquire and assess collections, and oversee the processing and preservation of materials across multiple platforms and physical facilities. 

Key Responsibilities

Collections Management & Preservation

• Serve as the primary collections contact for all donors, building trust and clearly communicating how DSC will preserve and honor their materials and legacies
• Conduct field visits to meet with donors, assess potential acquisitions, appraise collections, and provide guidance on caring for personal archives
• Oversee the processing, cataloging, and preservation of audio-visual materials, photographs, documents, ephemera, and born-digital collections
• Develop, maintain, and refine existing archival workflows for preservation, digitization, metadata creation, and collection processing
• Assess physical and digital condition of materials and implement appropriate preservation and conservation strategies for the long-term accessibility of paper-based collections and audio-visual formats
• Manage collections storage and preservation at both WGPR facility and the developing Blue Bird Inn archive, including coordinating the movement of materials between locations
• Develop finding aids and access tools that reflect the significance and context of these foundational collections
• Prioritize ongoing processing and preservation work for DSC's core collections: United Sound, Club Heaven, Blue Bird Inn, and Graystone Jazz Museum materials

Systems Development & Implementation

• Lead the research, selection, and implementation of a new digital asset management system (DAM) and content management system to replace current Google Drive infrastructure
• Develop requirements and specifications for archival management software that meets DSC's needs for both physical and digital collections
• Work with consultants and technical partners (grant-funded) to design and implement a public-facing web portal for collection access
• Create and maintain standardized documentation for all systems, workflows, and procedures
• Ensure long-term digital preservation strategies are built into all new systems

Audio-Visual Preservation

• Develop and implement workflows for audio digitization, video preservation, and born-digital file management
• Stay current with best practices in audio-visual preservation, file format migration, and media longevity
• Make informed decisions about digitization priorities, format choices, and quality control standards
• Work with volunteers and interns to execute digitization projects while maintaining quality standards

Team Collaboration & Supervision

• Collaborate with DSC staff on exhibitions, programming, and research projects utilizing priority collections
• Collaborate with content creators on formatting and ingestion workflows 
• Supervise and train volunteers and interns on archival procedures, handling protocols and digitization workflows
• Provide reference services to staff, community members and researchers

Requirements

• Master’s Degree in Library Science, Archival Studies, Museum Studies, or related field
• Minimum 2–3 years of professional archival experience
• Exceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail
• Strong knowledge of audio-visual preservation techniques, formats, and archiving best practices
• Demonstrated experience processing mixed-format collections (physical and digital materials)
• Understanding of archival principles, arrangement and description standards (DACS), metadata creation (e.g., Dublin Core, PREMIS), digital preservation, and the ability to assess and operate a Digital Asset Management System
• Ability to work sensitively and effectively with diverse community members, particularly elders and families from Detroit's Black communities, to build trust and articulate DSC's preservation mission
• Experience conducting field archiving, oral history and donor relations work
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work both independently and collaboratively
• Willingness to learn audio digitization techniques and workflows (if not already proficient)
• Physical ability to lift and move archival materials (up to 40 lbs) and work in storage environments
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation for field visits

Preferred Qualifications 

• Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) with concentration in Archives Management, or equivalent advanced degree
• Experience implementing digital asset management systems or archival management software
• Proficiency with archival databases and content management systems (ArchivesSpace, CONTENTdm, Preservica, or similar)
• Hands-on experience with audio digitization equipment and quality control
• Technical skills in coding or web development
• Deep knowledge of Detroit's music history and cultural landscape
• Experience working with music archives or audio-visual collections
• Familiarity with born-digital preservation
• Understanding of copyright and rights management for cultural heritage materials
• Experience supervising volunteers or student workers

What We Offer 

• Central role in preserving Detroit's globally significant musical legacy
• Opportunity to work directly with musicians, families, and community members whose stories are shaping the archive
• Hands-on work with rare and historically significant materials from legendary Detroit venues and institutions
• Leadership in building new systems and infrastructure for a growing organization
• Collaborative, mission-driven work environment
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with generous paid time off and paid organizational holidays to support your health and well-being 
• Professional development opportunities and connections within archival and music communities
• Chance to help develop the archive at the historic Blue Bird Inn

Work Environment 

This is a full-time position based at DSC's archival facility in Detroit, with future work taking place at the Blue Bird Inn as we develop that archive space. The role requires frequent field visits to meet with donors and assess collections throughout the Detroit area. Work involves hands-on processing of physical materials in archival storage environments and office-based digital work. Flexibility in schedule may be required to accommodate donor availability for evening or weekend meetings. Reliable transportation is required for field visits.

Salary Description

$55,000–$65,000

Archie Motley Memorial Scholarship Applications Solicited

MAC is soliciting applications for the 2026 Archie Motley Memorial Scholarship for Students of Color (http://www.midwestarchives.org/motley). The scholarship is designed to provide financial assistance to students of color pursuing graduate education in archival administration and to encourage ethnic diversification of the MAC membership and of the archival profession. Two $1,500 scholarships, accompanied by one-year memberships to MAC, will be awarded. 

To be eligible for a scholarship, the applicant must be of African, Arabic, Asian, Indigenous, Pacific Islander, or Latinx descent; must be a student currently enrolled in or accepted in a graduate, multicourse program in archival administration; and must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) in their academic program. If the program is not listed in the SAA Directory of Archival Education, http://www2.archivists.org/dae, the applicant must provide proof of the multicourse standard by submitting copies of course descriptions from the institution’s current departmental catalog. Candidates will be evaluated on their scholastic potential, their commitment to working in and creating access to archives and archival material, and commitment to representing and serving underrepresented communities in their work.

Applications are due March 1, 2026 and must include the following documents:

·       Completed application form, available at http://www.midwestarchives.org/motley

·       Current resume that includes education, work history, involvement in campus or community organizations, membership in professional organizations, and any honors or awards received

·       Transcript from the applicant's most recent academic program (unofficial transcript is acceptable)

·       Essay describing how the applicant’s experiences and perspectives align with their interest in archiving. What are their future goals and plans for contributing to the archival field? (500 words maximum)

·       One letter of recommendation (may be submitted separately by recommender).

Please send all materials (application form, transcript, and essay) as one single file. Completed applications should be sent to:

Megan Keller Young

Senior Instructor and Special Collections Librarian

University of Illinois Chicago

megank@uic.edu

 

Applications must be emailed by March 1, 2026. 

Awards will be announced no later than May 15, 2026.

Link to post: https://careers.umich.edu/job_detail/270884/archivist-reference

How to Apply

A cover letter and resume are important submissions for the hiring team to get a sense of your experience. In the cover letter, in two pages or less, please let us know how this role aligns with your career aspirations and skill set. Submit both a cover letter and a resume as one PDF file (due to system limitations).

Job Summary

The Bentley Historical Library seeks a user-oriented, creative, and collaborative Archivist for Reference to join our Reference Team. The successful candidate will be committed to inclusive access and building an equitable researcher experience. This position will report to the Associate Director for Public Engagement.

The Reference Team, a part of the Bentley's Public Engagement division, facilitates access to the library's collections through in-person research, remote reference requests, and patron requests for duplication. We support researchers of all backgrounds and experience levels, including students, academics, and community members. Our work, guided by a thoughtful and pragmatic approach to applying archival standards and the principles behind them, is informed by user needs.

The successful candidate will have a passion for engaging in professional growth and development as well as sharing knowledge and giving back to our professional communities. Flexibility and an ability to adapt to various and evolving staff and user needs are a must.

Who We Are

The Bentley Historical Library, a vital part of the University of Michigan, is dedicated to collecting and promoting the study of the histories of the State of Michigan and the University of Michigan. Open to the public without fee, the Library welcomes researchers of all backgrounds. With over 11,000 research collections, including the papers of Michigan governors, records of student and faculty life, and the complete historical archive of Michigan's intercollegiate athletics, the Bentley provides a rich resource for historical research. The Library features a state-of-the-art conservation lab where expert archivists and conservators teach and preserve materials, including books, maps, and architectural drawings. Additionally, the historic Detroit Observatory located on the University's central campus is a division of the Library, further enhancing its resources and outreach.

For more information, please visit our website: bentley.umich.edu

Responsibilities*

• Support researchers in the reading room and around the world through reference and research consultation services
• Supervise Reference Assistants working in the reference department
• Serve as a primary point of contact for incoming remote reference requests and ensure efficient communication in support of the researcher's needs
• Collaborate with Reference Team members to develop new policies, documentation, and workflows to improve the research process for staff and researchers
• Contribute to the archival profession, whether through professional organizations or other efforts, and engage in continued education

Required Qualifications*

• Master's degree from an ALA-accredited institution and a minimum of three years of experience working in archives. An advanced degree in a related discipline, combined with experience in archival reference services, may be substituted
• Demonstrated experience providing research support to users with various levels of exposure to archives
• Demonstrated experience in using finding aids and other archival descriptions for discovery, and explaining the use of these tools to researchers
• Demonstrated experience creating a supportive and participatory supervisory environment for student employees or full-time team members
• Working knowledge of Aeon or another archival location and request management system  
• Coursework or training in archival reference; knowledge of related standards and best practices
• Proven skill in effectively handling incoming requests and tracking deadlines

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

Additional Information

Salary Information:

The salary range for this position is $66,000-$69,000 annually. Candidates can expect to be paid a competitive and equitable salary. Factors used to determine salary include education level, experience, knowledge and skills for the position, and internal equity within the unit. All candidates are encouraged to discuss salary questions to honor alignment and transparency throughout the recruiting process.

The mode of work for this position is Hybrid, with occasional Saturday hours.

Excellent benefits are available; for details, see http://benefits.umich.edu/

Union Affiliation

This faculty position is subject to the U-M/LEO-GLAM collective bargaining agreement. Appointment is anticipated at the Associate Archivist level. The minimum salary for this position is $66,000 at the Associate Archivist level. Salary ranks are dependent on the candidate's qualifications and experience. The salary range for this position is $66,000-$69,000 annually.

This position is covered under the collective bargaining agreement between the U-M and the Lecturers Employee Organization, AFL-CIO, on behalf of their Librarian, Archivists, and Curator bargaining unit (LEO-GLAM), which contains and settles all matters with respect to wages, benefits, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment.

The University of Michigan complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act and other applicable federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability. The Administrative Designee, who is responsible for communicating with Employees about requests for reasonable accommodations in the Bentley Historical Library, is Camille Ulrich. They may be reached at culrich@umich.edu.

Employees on the Ann Arbor or Dearborn Campuses may also contact the Disability Equity Office by email at disabilityequity@umich.edu, by phone at 734-763-0235, or by visiting their website.

Background Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third-party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks will be performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Application Deadline

Applications will be reviewed as received throughout the posting period and will continue until the position is filled. The estimated beginning date for the appointment is mid-March.

Decision Making Process

Applications will be reviewed as received throughout the posting period and will continue until the position is filled.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.

Hello Everyone!

The Programming Committee is now seeking session proposals for our 2026 annual meeting, to be held from June 15th - June 16th, 2026!

Are you presenting for MAC, SAA, or another conference in a related field? Double dip! Do you need presentation experience and want to wet your feet in a low pressure environment? Present with us! Are you a student? We’re excited to have you sign up for a session!

Possible session topics include, but are not limited to:

All things digital (access, preservation, new technologies, etc.) Career planning/advice Collections management Donor relations/cultivation Fostering a diverse and inclusive profession Invisible or contingent labor Promoting collections Reference Special projects

Archivists in non-traditional settings (e.g., private archives, consultants, corporate) Cataloging and metadata Conservation Exhibits on a budget Fundraising and grant writing Processing Records Management Repository round-up (short updates on projects presented at past conferences) Web archiving, preserving social media

Creative ideas and collaborative sessions are strongly encouraged - please feel free to use the MAA 2026 Session Proposal Collaboration spreadsheet to connect! 

To submit a proposal, please complete the MAA 2026 Annual Meeting Session Proposal form. Proposals are due March 28, 2026.

There will be a separate call for the poster session and student lightning talk proposals in early 2026.

Thank you and please feel free to spread the word … and volunteer others!  We are happy to contact people to fill in our program, so if you know someone working on an interesting project, please let us know. You do not have to be an MAA member to present at the meeting. 

Let us know if you have any questions or concerns. We look forward to hearing from you!

Sincerely,

MAA Program Committee: 

Bob Garrett

Laura Kennedy

Sarah Lundy

Link to job posting: https://careers.umich.edu/job_detail/271309/archivist-university-archives-records

How to Apply

A cover letter and resume are important submissions for the hiring team to get a sense of your experience. In the cover letter, in two pages or less, please let us know how this role aligns with your career aspirations and skill set. Submit both a cover letter and a resume as one PDF file (due to system limitations).

Job Summary

The Bentley Historical Library seeks a collaborative and service-oriented Archivist for University Archives and Records to lead the Library's fieldwork and collection development for the University of Michigan's archives. The position strengthens documentation of the University's diverse and evolving history by building relationships with administrative units, faculty, staff, student organizations, alumni, and affiliated individuals.

 
This is a regular appointment, recognizing that sustainable records stewardship and fieldwork require long-term commitment and continuity of presence. The position reports to the Associate Director for Collections at the Bentley Historical Library. 

Working within the University Archives and Records, the Archivist identifies, appraises, and acquires records and personal papers that reflect the university's teaching, research, and community impact. This position will sustain the success of earlier acquisition work with university records while critically exploring new and emerging areas for future collecting. The Archivist will collect materials in all formats, including digital, and ensure that archival transfers and records management practices align with the Bentley's mission and university policies.
 

This role is integral to Bentley's commitment to inclusive collecting and reparative archival practices, ensuring that the full scope of university life, administrative, academic, research, and cultural, is represented and preserved for future generations.

Who We Are

The Bentley Historical Library, a vital part of the University of Michigan, is dedicated to collecting and promoting the study of the histories of the State of Michigan and the University of Michigan. Open to the public without fee, the Library welcomes researchers of all backgrounds. With over 11,000 research collections, including the papers of Michigan governors, records of student and faculty life, and the complete historical archive of Michigan's intercollegiate athletics, the Bentley provides a rich resource for historical research. The Library features a state-of-the-art conservation lab where expert archivists and conservators teach and preserve materials such as books, maps, and architectural drawings. Additionally, the historic Detroit Observatory on the University's central campus is a division of the Library, further enhancing its resources and outreach.

For more information, please visit our website: bentley.umich.edu

Responsibilities

A detailed list of responsibilities is available here.

University Archives Fieldwork and Collection Development
Build and sustain relationships across campus to identify, appraise, and acquire records in all formats. Strengthen documentation of the university's evolving history through active fieldwork and responsive collecting.

Advocacy, Description, and Records Stewardship
Advise units on records stewardship and coordinate timely, policy-aligned transfers. Support descriptive and preservation practices that ensure long-term access and integrity of university records.

Outreach and Education
Provide training, consultations, and presentations that help campus partners understand their roles in documenting university life. Promote awareness of archival processes, requirements, and resources.

Professional Development and Service
Engage in ongoing learning and professional service to support an inclusive, collaborative, and forward-looking University Archives program.

Required Qualifications

• Master's degree with coursework in archival studies or an advanced degree in a related discipline, combined with relevant archival experience.
• Knowledge of archival and records management principles, practices, and descriptive standards (DACS, EAD, MARC, LCSH).
• Familiarity with born-digital records appraisal, description, and preservation.
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, written, and oral communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment and work effectively both independently and collaboratively with a heterogeneous group of staff and external stakeholders.
• Demonstrated initiative, flexibility, and commitment to professional engagement and continuous learning.
• Comfort with and ability to learn new technologies. 

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

Additional Info

Salary Information

The general salary range for this position is $61,000- $64,000 annually. Candidates can expect to be paid a competitive and equitable salary. Factors used to determine salary include education level, experience, knowledge and skills for the position, and internal equity within the unit. All candidates are encouraged to discuss salary questions to honor alignment and transparency throughout the recruiting process.

The mode of work for this position is Hybrid.

The salary for this position will be based on the selected candidate's education and experience.

Excellent benefits are available; for details, see http://benefits.umich.edu/

Union Affiliation

This faculty position is subject to the U-M/LEO-GLAM collective bargaining agreement. Appointment is anticipated at the Assistant Archivist level. The minimum salary for this position is $61,000 at the Assistant Archivist level. Salary and rank are dependent on the candidate's qualifications and experience. The salary range for this position is $61,000 - $64,000 annually.

This position is covered under the collective bargaining agreement between the U-M and the Lecturers Employee Organization, AFL-CIO, on behalf of their Librarian, Archivists, and Curator bargaining unit (LEO-GLAM), which contains and settles all matters with respect to wages, benefits, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment.

The University of Michigan complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act and other applicable federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability. The Administrative Designee, who is responsible for communicating with Employees about requests for reasonable accommodations in the Bentley Historical Library, is Camille Ulrich. They may be reached at culrich@umich.edu.

Employees on the Ann Arbor or Dearborn Campuses may also contact the Disability Equity Office by email at disabilityequity@umich.edu, by phone at 734-763-0235, or by visiting their website.

Background Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks.  Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.  The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended. 

Decision Making Process

Applications will be reviewed as received throughout the posting period and will continue until the position is filled. The estimated beginning date for the appointment is mid-March.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.

Greetings,

We hope you're having a wonderful fall!

We've had a busy season of new programming, adding new opportunities for learning and connection outside of our annual meeting. The MAA Board has put together this survey to gather your feedback regarding the recent Snacks & Stacks tour and networking events.  Please check out our survey link below and respond by December 5th.

Within the survey, there is space to offer feedback about the successes and challenges of these events, as well as provide suggestions for future Snack & Snacks locations, networking sessions, and timing. We appreciate your insight as we plan ahead for future MAA programming this spring and in later years. 

Survey: https://forms.gle/FQj1E7PEbKWUZdGR6

Thank you for your help, and please let us know if you have any questions!

Sincerely,

The MAA Board

The MSU Libraries Visiting Scholars committee is pleased to share that we have opened the 2025-2026 call for proposals. Applications will be received on a rolling basis through February 1st 2026. For more information please visit: https://lib.msu.edu/murray-hong-spc/research/visiting-scholar-grants

Please share widely with your network.

If there are questions or thoughts, please reach out to the committee distribution list directly at lib.dl.spcgrants@msu.edu

Link to job posting: https://recruiting.ultipro.com/CRA1003CRANB/JobBoard/d031dbc9-fb09-4316-a299-e8521be88019/OpportunityDetail?opportunityId=43a66fb6-1e64-4e59-8e65-63277d38759a

Associate Archivist - Cranbrook Center for Collections and Research

Cranbrook Center for Collections and Research seeks a collaborative and creative Associate Archivist to join the Archives Team. Reporting to the Head Archivist, the Associate Archivist will engage in a variety of activities centered on sustainability and access of analog and digital archival collections. The successful candidate is committed to pursuing best practices and innovative ideas for the accessioning, arrangement, description, and preservation of materials in all formats, including a substantial holding of architectural drawings. This position plays a crucial role in safeguarding the enduring institutional heritage of Cranbrook Educational Community.

Cranbrook Archives is the primary research center for the documentation and study of Cranbrook Educational Community, comprised of a graduate Academy of Art, contemporary Art Museum, Center for Collections and Research, House and Gardens, Institute of Science, and Pre-K through 12 independent college preparatory Schools. Archival holdings range from the papers of Cranbrook’s founding family to the ongoing records of each institution and include affiliated cultural organizational records and individual artist archives. Work with the collections is guided by both the user needs of the Community and scholarly researchers

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Accession, arrange, describe, and preserve analog, born-digital, and hybrid collections according to professional archival standards.
• Assist with the administration of collections management, digital asset management, and digital preservation systems, ensuring appropriate organization, security, integrity, and continued accessibility of collections.
• Contribute to the development of workflows for processing and storage of the Archives’ collections.
• Lead the creation, revision, and maintenance of descriptive practices associated with finding aids and digital object metadata, staying abreast of current best practices.
• Implement and maintain digital preservation tools related to accessioning, processing, email, and web archiving.
• Support Archives staff and patrons in navigation of the digital records environment, advising on processing and searching digital collections.
• Assist with research services, training and supervision of archival volunteers and student interns, and day-to-day operations.
• Assist Center staff with the development of public programming and social media outreach related to Cranbrook’s archival and manuscript holdings.
• Maintain attendance, punctuality, and performance standards set forth in Cranbrook’s employee handbook.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in library or information science from an ALA-accredited institution
• Two years of processing experience at an archives or special collections
• Demonstrated knowledge of archival practices and methodology, including collection management, digital asset management, and digital preservation systems
• Knowledge of strategies and professional standards for ingest, management, preservation, and discovery of born-digital archival material
• Fundamental understanding of descriptive standards, digital file parameters, and intellectual property best practices as applied to cultural heritage institutions
• Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communications skills
• Demonstrated analytical and critical thinking skills
• Proven ability to set, track, and meet goals and deadlines
• A valid Michigan driver’s license with satisfactory driving record

Preferred Qualifications:

• Direct experience applying standards and best practices to digital surrogates and born digital records
• Experience with ArchivesSpace, CONTENTdm, Preservica, and Archive-It
• Understanding of cloud-based content management systems such as Microsoft SharePoint

Cranbrook offers competitive compensation and benefits that include medical, dental, life insurance, long-term and short-term disability, and retirement programs with employer contribution. We also offer generous paid time off, 11 paid holidays and 3 floating holidays, employee discounts, and a unique environment in an educational setting that values collaboration.

For consideration, please submit your resume, cover letter and a writing sample. Your application will be considered incomplete without these materials. Please be sure these documents are uploaded at the same time your application is submitted.

Link to job posting: https://careers.umich.edu/job_detail/270030/manuscripts-division-processor

The William L. Clements Library at the University of Michigan is seeking a qualified Manuscripts Division Processor for a 2-year term appointment. This position in the Manuscripts Division is responsible for initial arrangement, preliminary description, and implementation of semi-automated processes for creating basic finding aids for a wide variety of 18th- to early 20th-century manuscripts and other archival materials. The primary focus of this position is the production of minimal EAD records for the Clements Library's more recent acquisitions using descriptive content exported from ArchivesSpace; the revision of existing finding aids and MARC records; and the incorporation of digital object references into EAD and MARC records.

The William L. Clements Library is a University of Michigan library that houses original resources for the study of U.S. history and culture from the fifteenth through the nineteenth century. Its mission is to collect and preserve primary source materials, to make them available for research, and to create an environment that supports and encourages scholarly investigation of our nation's past.

Responsibilities*

Note, the responsibilities and associated percentage of time spent on the specific functions below are what are anticipated for this position. The associated percentage of effort may shift and change slightly, depending on the metadata needs for digitization projects at a given time. 

Preliminary Processing and Semi-Automated Creation of Archival Descriptions (95%)

• Address pre-processing needs, such as initial arrangements and housing of a variety of material types
• Conduct basic research
• Write basic descriptions of archival materials
• Produce EAD records for Manuscripts Division collections using semi-automated methods
• Revise previously-created EAD and MARC records
• Incorporate references to digital objects into EAD and MARC records

Other duties as assigned (5%)

• Collaboration and coordination with colleagues in the different divisions of the Clements Library
• Documentation and attention to changing best practices

Required Qualifications*

• Undergraduate degree in a related field with classroom or hands-on experience working with historical archival materials and/or archival description.
• Knowledge of applications and tools relevant to spreadsheets and word processing.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Strong attention to detail and a high degree of accuracy.
• Knowledge of, or capacity to learn, aspects of American history and culture of the 18th-early 20th centuries.

Please note:  This is a 2-year term-limited position with the possibility of renewal depending on funding.

The mode of work for this position is On-site. 

Excellent benefits are available; for details, see http://benefits.umich.edu/

The salary for this position is $44,000 annually. Candidates can expect to be paid a competitive and equitable salary. Factors used to determine salary include education level, experience, knowledge and skills for the position, and internal equity within the unit. 

Job Posting URL: https://careers.msu.edu/jobs/digital-archivist-librarian-i-or-ii-east-lansing-michigan-united-states

Working/Functional Title

Digital Archivist, Librarian I or II

Position Summary

Michigan State University (MSU) Libraries invites applications for the position of Digital Archivist. Reporting to the Head of the Stephen O. Murray and Keelung Hong Special Collections and University Archives, the successful candidate will foster the discovery, access, and preservation of born-digital and digital surrogate materials through various activities including the implementation and maintenance of digital delivery systems including but not limited to Archive-It and Preservica. The Digital Archivist will be broadly focused and collaborative with an in-depth knowledge of computing habits, varieties of digital material both hardware/software for all formats (PC, Mac, devices, cloud). Michigan State University Libraries (MSUL) is the center of academic life on campus; it employs a knowledgeable staff and an exemplary team of librarians working in a large central library. The libraries support a diverse community of users through more than 7 million print volumes; millions of pages of archival and manuscript collections, and millions more electronic resources.

Duties include but are not limited to:

• Prepares technical metadata and coordinates with the Metadata, Digital Repository team, and Special Collections Digital Curation Working Group and other stakeholders whose work is a part of the digital asset lifecycle.
• Processes, arranges, and describes digital archival material in accordance with professional best standards, including all levels and forms of description.
• Collaborates with others to design digital preservation workflows for existing and future born-digital and digitized collections.
• Provides guidance and collaborates on the topic of digital preservation and how we care for and provide access to abstract content
• Creates and performs quality control on processed born-digital archives.
• Creates collaborative workflows with library stakeholders to ensure digital collections are compliant with current accessibility standards.
• Leads the development of a collections-centered approach with respect to the ethical and privacy needs of digital collections; collaborates with library colleagues to conduct reparative description work for digital collection metadata to ensure accurate representation, and incorporate inclusive, non-discriminatory descriptions that do not perpetuate harm.
• Participates in donor engagement and exhibit creation in collaboration with fellow archivists and librarians.
• Provides reference and research assistance, including time on a public service desk, working with students, faculty and scholars as well as external visitors, and for both onsite and remote users. 

MSU Librarians may have a quarter-time secondary assignment (position dependent) based on the needs of the library and candidate interests. We welcome candidates who meet the minimum requirements to apply and will support their professional development to grow in this position. Archivists are appointed as regular faculty in the Librarian continuing appointment system. Faculty are expected to independently apply judgment; have excellent oral and communication skills; and demonstrate attention to detail; flexibility; collegiality; the capacity for collaboration; and a commitment to diversity and inclusion in performance of their duties. As faculty, they develop a self-directed program of professional development and scholarly activities related to their position; and serve on library and university committees as elected or assigned.

The archivist will work to advance the initiatives in the MSU Strategic Plan and in the MSU Libraries Strategic Plan. In support of these initiatives, the Libraries serve as a center of activity and engagement on campus, with librarians empowered to support both student development and transformative research activities.

The MSU Libraries Strategic Plan guides our current and future work. The candidate will collaborate with campus partners to help develop a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Michigan State University Libraries serve more than 4,900 faculty, 40,000 undergraduates, and 11,000 graduate and professional students on a park-like campus of over 5,000 acres.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Masters -Information and Library Sciences

Minimum Requirements

• Masters degree in information or library science from a program accredited by the American Library Association or an equivalent accreditation from an international institution.
• Experience with archival theory and practice
• Knowledge of delivery systems such as Archive-It, Preservica
• Knowledge of archival description in an archival information management system (e.g., ArchivesSpace), digital asset management, digital preservation systems, web archiving, and working with data structure standards relevant to digital collections in a special collections context (including DACS, EAD, EAC-CPF)
• Working knowledge of tools and software used to capture, manage, transfer and deliver born-digital records, including web archiving activities and tools
• Excellent interpersonal, problem solving, and analytical skills, as well as the ability to communicate effectively with technical and non-technical users
• Preparation and commitment to conducting independent scholarship consistent with a library faculty appointment
• Values varied perspectives and experience and actively fosters a collaborative and respectful culture.

Desired Qualifications

• Continuing education coursework or certification in digital archives, or digital asset management.
• Hands-on experience with relevant digital preservation tools and systems.
• Experience with digital preservation and web-archiving tools such as Preservica, Bitcurator, and Archive-It.
• Experience with scripting or programming languages to automate workflows and processes; tools for data cleaning and/or manipulation (e.g., OpenRefine); specialized forensics tools (e.g., hardware writeblockers, utilities found in the BitCurator environment).

Required Application Materials

Interested applicants should provide:

• A letter of application,
• CV/resume, and
• Names, addresses and email addresses of three references (2 must be present/past supervisors).

Special Instructions

Minimum $64,000. Salary is negotiable. MSU provides generous fringe benefits including health care, dental care, professional development funding, 22 paid vacation days, 9 University holidays, 2 personal observance days, paid sick days, tuition discounts, and relocation reimbursement.

For questions, please contact Jacquelyn Hansen, aholajac@msu.edu, at MSU Libraries' Human Resources Department.

As an institution of higher learning, Michigan State University is committed to providing a safe environment for its students, faculty, and staff in support of its educational mission. With this commitment, the University conducts criminal background checks and professional misconduct reviews of all applicants for employment in faculty, academic staff, and executive management searches. 

Professional Misconduct Review

A professional misconduct review is a prerequisite for a candidate to be selected for this position. Applicants will be asked to disclose whether they are subject to any pending investigation, findings or sanctions related to professional misconduct. Professional misconduct includes misconduct related to a person’s employment, including, but not limited to, theft, embezzlement, research integrity, discrimination, or harassment under civil rights laws and policies, including protected identity harassment, sexual harassment, sexual misconduct (sexual assault, sexual exploitation, dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, etc.), and retaliation. All applicants will be asked to sign an authorization and release, which authorizes the University to contact the candidate’s current and former employers, for a period of 7 years prior to the date of application, related to any pending investigations, findings of responsibility and/or sanctions related to professional misconduct. Nothing will be sent to current or former employers unless the candidate reaches the semi-finalist stage.

The existence of professional misconduct history does not automatically exclude a candidate from employment. The University will assess the history, including any information provided by the candidate, in determining whether it is compatible with the position. The University may decline to hire a candidate based on the professional misconduct review. All records obtained from external employers will be kept in a secure location, separate from personnel files. If an applicant fails to sign the authorization and release, the application will be deemed incomplete and will be withdrawn.