Archival Educator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of history and knowledge preservation, the role of archival educators is becoming increasingly crucial.

As we advance in the digital age, the need for skilled individuals who can preserve, organize, and impart knowledge about our historical and cultural assets grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an archival educator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker attempting to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the ideal candidate profile,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of archival education,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable archival educator job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Archival Educator Duties and Responsibilities

Archival Educators are responsible for managing, preserving, and providing access to historical and legal documents and records.

They also play a vital role in educating the public and students about the value and methods of preserving historical artifacts.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Managing and maintaining archival collections, ensuring their proper storage and preservation
• Creating and implementing educational programs and workshops related to archives and archival research
• Assisting researchers, students, and the public in accessing and using archival materials
• Conducting tours and presentations about the archives and the importance of preservation
• Developing and updating finding aids, catalogues, and other guides to make archival materials accessible
• Evaluating and acquiring new materials for the archives
• Digitizing archives to ensure their longevity and accessibility
• Collaborating with other educational institutions, museums, or organizations for exhibitions and educational programs
• Ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards in archival work
• Keeping up with advancements in archival theory and technology, and implementing them where appropriate

 

Archival Educator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a knowledgeable Archival Educator to lead educational programs and workshops centered on archival studies.

Archival Educator responsibilities include creating comprehensive curricula, organizing workshops, and delivering lectures on archival practices and techniques.

Our ideal candidates are passionate about archival studies, have a strong educational background, and are experienced in pedagogical approaches.

Ultimately, the role of the Archival Educator is to foster an understanding and appreciation of archival studies, encouraging best practices and cultivating a new generation of archivists.

 

Responsibilities

• Design and develop educational programs and workshops on archival practices
• Deliver engaging and informative lectures to various audiences
• Develop educational materials and resources for students and professionals
• Stay abreast of developments and trends in archival studies
• Promote the importance of archival practices within the organization and to the public
• Provide guidance and mentorship to students and aspiring archivists
• Work closely with other archivists and educators to continually improve program offerings

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an educator in archival studies or a related field
• A strong understanding of archival practices and principles
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Ability to design engaging and comprehensive curricula
• Experience with various educational techniques and methodologies
• Proficiency in using educational technology
• Advanced degree in Archival Studies, Library Science, or a related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Archival Educator
• Work Environment: Academic or museum setting. Some travel may be required for conferences or workshops.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Education or Archival Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Archival Educator Do?

Archival Educators play a crucial role in the preservation and distribution of historical knowledge.

They typically work in libraries, museums, universities, government agencies, corporations, or other institutions with collections of historical artifacts or documents.

They are responsible for developing and delivering educational programs related to the archives.

This might include workshops, lectures, guided tours, and interactive activities aimed at diverse audiences, from school children to researchers to the general public.

Archival Educators need to have a deep understanding of the collections they work with.

They conduct research to gain insight into the historical context of the items and to uncover interesting stories or facts that can be used to engage their audience.

A significant part of their role involves making the archives accessible to the public.

They might create exhibits, write articles or blog posts, or develop online resources that highlight items from the collection.

Archival Educators also collaborate with teachers and academics to integrate the archives into their curriculum, providing a practical learning resource that can enhance students’ understanding of history.

Furthermore, they are often involved in outreach activities, building relationships with community groups and other stakeholders to promote the archives and ensure they are utilized to their full potential.

Overall, the Archival Educator’s job is to bridge the gap between the archives and the public, making sure that these valuable collections are not only preserved but also appreciated and learned from.

 

Archival Educator Qualifications and Skills

An Archival Educator should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Deep knowledge about archival science and the principles of record keeping, including the latest trends and techniques in the field.
• Excellent teaching abilities to convey complex archival concepts in an accessible, engaging way to students or other audiences.
• Superb communication skills to facilitate learning, answer queries, and explain archival methodologies and practices effectively.
• Strong organizational skills to manage educational resources, plan lessons, and maintain records.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills to adapt teaching strategies as per individual learning needs and to overcome any potential teaching challenges.
• Proficiency in using educational technology and digital archive systems to enhance the learning experience.
• Interpersonal skills to build relationships with students, colleagues, and professionals in the field.
• Experience in curriculum development and designing educational programs focused on archival studies.

 

Archival Educator Experience Requirements

To qualify for the role of an Archival Educator, candidates must typically have a bachelor’s degree in Library Science, Information Science, History, or a related field.

An advanced degree such as a master’s in Library and Information Science or Archival Studies can be advantageous.

Entry-level Archival Educators should ideally have one to two years of experience, potentially gained through internships or part-time roles at libraries, archives, museums, or other educational institutions.

They should also be familiar with archival principles and practices, as well as have experience in teaching or presenting to diverse audiences.

Candidates with over 3 years of experience should have a proven track record in developing and implementing archival education programs, workshops, or seminars.

These professionals may also have gained practical experience in cataloging, preservation, and digitization of archival materials.

Those with more than 5 years of experience will ideally have worked in senior or managerial roles within archives or libraries.

They may have overseen the development and execution of large-scale educational projects, managed teams, and worked closely with educational institutions and community groups.

They may be well-positioned for leadership roles within archival education.

In addition to these experience requirements, Archival Educators should have a strong understanding of archival standards and ethics, as well as excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills.

Knowledge of current technology and software used in archives is also highly beneficial.

 

Archival Educator Education and Training Requirements

Archival Educators often hold a master’s degree in Library Science, History, Archival Science, or a related field.

In their degree programs, they typically learn about archival management, historical research methodologies, document preservation, and digital archives.

They also gain skills in the organization and cataloging of archival materials, critical for their future career.

In addition to a degree, hands-on experience with archival materials is highly valued.

This can be gained through internships, volunteering, or working in libraries, museums, or other institutions with archival collections.

To enhance their career prospects, Archival Educators can consider getting certified.

The Academy of Certified Archivists offers a Certified Archivist credential, which is highly regarded in the field.

Continual professional development is important in this field to stay updated with the latest archival technologies and practices.

This can be achieved through workshops, conferences, seminars, or further education.

Familiarity with digital storage, retrieval systems, and preservation techniques is also increasingly important as more archives move to digital formats.

Therefore, courses or training in digital archiving could be beneficial.

Since Archival Educators often work with students and the public, excellent communication and teaching skills are also necessary.

These skills can be gained and improved through teaching assistantships, tutoring, or other educational roles.

 

Archival Educator Salary Expectations

An Archival Educator can expect to earn an average salary of $54,500 (USD) per year.

This salary may fluctuate based on factors such as level of experience, educational background, location, and the institution of employment.

 

Archival Educator Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Archival Educator need?

Archival Educators should have in-depth knowledge of archival practices, including cataloging, conservation, and digitization.

They should possess strong communication skills to effectively teach these concepts.

In addition, they need a good understanding of research methods and the ability to utilize various technologies used in archiving.

Organizational skills, detail-orientation, and a passion for preserving history are also important.

 

What qualifications should an Archival Educator have?

Archival Educators typically require a master’s degree in archival science, library science, history, or a related field.

They should also have a good amount of experience working in archives.

Certification from the Academy of Certified Archivists can be an added advantage.

Some positions may also require experience in teaching or educational outreach.

 

What are the key responsibilities of an Archival Educator?

An Archival Educator’s primary responsibility is to educate individuals about archival practices.

This can include teaching about the significance of archives, how to navigate them, and how to preserve and digitize historical documents.

They may also be involved in developing educational programs or materials, conducting workshops, and coordinating with other educators or institutions.

 

How can one advance in the career of an Archival Educator?

With experience and further education, Archival Educators can advance to senior roles such as Archival Education Manager or Director of Education.

They can also choose to specialize in certain areas of archiving, like digital preservation, and become experts in that field.

Participating in professional organizations, attending conferences, and staying updated with the latest in archival science can also contribute to career advancement.

 

Is it hard to find qualified Archival Educators?

As the demand for preserving and managing historical and cultural assets increases, so does the need for Archival Educators.

However, due to the specific skill set and educational requirements, finding qualified Archival Educators may pose a challenge.

It is important to offer competitive compensation, opportunities for professional development, and a supportive work environment to attract and retain talent.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the real essence of being an archival educator.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about preserving and organizing documents.

It’s about shaping the historical narrative, one artifact at a time.

With our dedicated archival educator job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on this exciting journey.

But why limit yourself?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating meticulously detailed job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every historical artifact tells a part of a larger story.

Let’s unravel history. Together.

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