Archivist

Industry:
Public Sector
Last Updated:
September 19, 2023

Job Description Overview

If you're interested in preserving and organizing important historical records, then an Archivist job description may be perfect for you! In the Public Sector industry, Archivists are responsible for identifying, collecting, and maintaining historical documents, photographs, and other materials of cultural significance. These materials could include anything from government records to personal letters and diaries.

Archivists are meticulous individuals who have a passion for history and a talent for organization. They need to be able to research and analyze information, as well as write reports and publications that detail their findings. In addition, they often work with software to digitize records and make them accessible to the public.

To be successful in this role, Archivists should have a bachelor's degree in history, library science, or a related field. Some positions may require a master's degree. Additionally, they should have strong communication skills, both verbal and written, and be able to work independently as well as in a team.

Overall, an Archivist job description involves preserving and making accessible the cultural heritage of a society, making it an incredibly rewarding and meaningful career path.

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Job Duties and Responsibilities

  • Archivists in the public sector industry are responsible for collecting, organizing, and preserving historical records and documents.
  • They must manage and arrange collections in a way that is accessible to researchers and the general public.
  • They also create descriptive and historical information about the collections, and make it available to researchers and the public.
  • Archivists ensure the long-term preservation of original materials by controlling the temperature, humidity, and light conditions in storage areas.
  • They also implement digital preservation strategies to ensure the continued accessibility of electronic records.
  • Public sector archivists may partner with other institutions and organizations to share resources and collaborate on projects.
  • They provide reference services and assistance to researchers, helping them navigate collections and find appropriate materials.
  • Archivists also work to increase public awareness of history and culture through exhibitions, educational outreach programs, and other public programs.
  • They may also be involved in policy development related to records management and access to public records.

Experience and Education Requirements

To become an archivist in the public sector, you usually need to have a bachelor's degree in library science, history, or a related field. If you have a master's degree in one of these fields, that can be even better. It's also important to have some experience working with archives or libraries, whether through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work. You'll need to be able to organize, describe, and preserve documents and artifacts, often using specialized software. Strong communication and research skills are also important, because you'll need to help others find and access the materials in your archive. Overall, becoming an archivist takes education, experience, and a passion for preserving history.

Salary Range

Archivist salary range in the United States varies depending on experience, location, and employer. As of May 2020, the median annual pay for archivists was $51,760, with the lowest 10% earning less than $29,660 and the highest 10% earning more than $90,900. Federal government archivists had a higher median salary of $71,980.

In Canada, the average salary for archivists is C$58,637. While in the United Kingdom, the average salary is £27,500. However, experienced archivists in London may earn up to £35,000 per year.

Salaries may also differ in different public sector industries such as libraries, museums, and universities. In summary, the average salary range for archivists in the United States is from $29,660 to $90,900 with a median salary of $51,760.

Sources:

  • Bureau of Labor Statistics - Archivists, Curators, and Museum Workers
  • PayScale - Archivist Salary
  • CILIP - Salary Guide for Library, Knowledge and Information Professionals

Career Outlook

Archivists in the public sector industry are responsible for preserving and organizing historical records, documents, and artifacts. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of archivists is projected to grow 11% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is attributed to the expanding need for digitized records to preserve and organize important information for future generations. With the increase in technology, archivists must have knowledge of digital storage and be able to adapt to new software systems. The job outlook for archivists in the public sector is positive, and it is expected to continue growing in the next 5 years.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What does an archivist do in the public sector?

A: An archivist in the public sector is responsible for preserving and organizing important records and documents related to government agencies, events, and public figures.

Q: What skills and education are necessary to become a public sector archivist?

A: Most employers require at least a bachelor's degree in library science, history, or a related field. Strong attention to detail, organization, and knowledge of archival practices is also important.

Q: What are some common duties of a public sector archivist?

A: Archivists in the public sector may be responsible for organizing, cataloging, and preserving historical documents, creating digital versions of records, advising on record retention policies, and providing access to archival materials for researchers and the public.

Q: What type of organizations typically employ public sector archivists?

A: Public sector archivists may work for federal, state, or local government agencies, museums, universities, or historical societies, among others.

Q: Why is the work of public sector archivists important?

A: Public sector archivists play a critical role in preserving and providing access to significant historical documents and records for future generations. Their work helps ensure that important information is not lost or forgotten over time.


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