Archival Technician Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of information preservation, the focus on archival technicians has never been greater.

As historical records and documents become increasingly digitized, the demand for skilled professionals who can organize, maintain, and protect our informational resources grows.

But what exactly is expected from an archival technician?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the realm of archival work,

You’ve come to the right place.

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

Let’s delve into it.

Archival Technician Duties and Responsibilities

Archival Technicians are primarily responsible for handling, cataloging, and preserving records, documents, and other important materials.

They ensure that the data is stored in a way that maintains its quality and can be easily accessed for future reference.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Assist in the arrangement, cataloging, and classification of archival materials
• Preserve documents and materials by applying appropriate conservation methods
• Utilize databases and other digital resources to catalog and track archival materials
• Provide assistance to researchers and visitors who require access to the archives
• Conduct research to authenticate and verify the accuracy of archival materials
• Create and maintain detailed records of archive holdings and their condition
• Perform regular inspections of storage facilities to ensure optimal conditions for preservation
• Assist in the digitization of archival materials
• Maintain the security and confidentiality of sensitive and restricted materials
• Participate in outreach programs, exhibits, and presentations to promote the archive’s collections and services

 

Archival Technician Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are in search of a diligent Archival Technician who will oversee the protection, preservation, and management of valuable collections and historical documents.

The Archival Technician will be responsible for tasks such as indexing, cataloging, and digitizing documents and materials, ensuring their preservation and accessibility for future use.

Ideal candidates possess a keen eye for detail, are adept at using cataloging software and have a strong appreciation for history and preservation.

 

Responsibilities

• Organize, categorize, and catalog various archival materials such as documents, photographs, maps, films, etc.
• Digitize archival materials using appropriate software and equipment
• Develop and implement preservation strategies for physical and digital materials
• Monitor storage environments to ensure appropriate conditions for preservation
• Conduct research to authenticate historical documents and artifacts
• Assist researchers and visitors in accessing archival materials
• Prepare and deliver presentations on the collections to visitors, researchers, and public groups
• Follow best practices and standards in archive administration

 

Qualifications

• Prior experience as an Archival Technician or in a similar role
• Familiarity with cataloging systems and databases
• Experience in digitizing and preserving materials
• Strong organizational and research skills
• Excellent attention to detail
• Knowledge of preservation laws and regulations
• Proficiency in using Microsoft Office suite and archival management software
• A degree in History, Library Science, Archival Science, or a related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Opportunities for professional development

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Archival Technician
• Work Environment: This role typically works in a museum, library, or similar setting with occasional field visits for retrieval or verification of materials.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Archivist or Museum Curator.
• Salary: Salary is contingent upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business conditions.
• 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 detailing your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Archival Technician Do?

Archival Technicians, also known as Archive Technicians, play an important role in the management and preservation of historical documents and artifacts.

They are typically employed by government agencies, museums, libraries, historical societies, and educational institutions.

Their primary responsibility is to organize, classify, and catalog archival materials such as documents, photographs, films, and digital data.

They use specific archival techniques and methods to ensure the materials are preserved properly and can be retrieved easily when needed.

Archival Technicians also assist researchers, students, and the general public in accessing the archive’s materials.

They help locate specific items, provide information on how to handle delicate materials, and ensure that the archive’s rules and regulations are followed.

In addition, they may be responsible for digitizing physical items to make them more accessible and to preserve their condition.

This can involve scanning documents, creating digital copies of photographs, or recording information into digital databases.

They also contribute to the conservation of the materials in the archive by implementing and maintaining appropriate storage environments and conditions.

This includes controlling temperature and humidity levels, and ensuring materials are stored in acid-free containers.

Regularly, Archival Technicians also perform minor repairs on damaged documents or artifacts, and coordinate with professional conservators for major restoration works.

 

Archival Technician Qualifications and Skills

Archival Technicians must possess a unique blend of specialized knowledge and key skills to carry out their duties effectively, such as:

• Strong organizational skills to categorize, classify and catalogue various items accurately and efficiently
• Ability to use archival databases and software to manage and access the information and materials in the archive
• Excellent attention to detail for preserving, arranging, and describing records accurately
• Good communication skills to interact with researchers, staff, and the public, and to write clear and concise descriptions of archival material
• Research skills to provide assistance in locating information and materials
• Knowledge of preservation techniques and practices to ensure the long-term safety and accessibility of archived items
• Understanding of records management and information governance, including privacy and copyright laws
• Problem-solving skills to manage issues such as damaged materials or space limitations in the archive

 

Archival Technician Experience Requirements

Archival Technicians typically need at least 2 years of experience, often obtained through internships or part-time roles in libraries, museums, or historical societies.

They gain practical experience in organizing, preserving, and digitizing documents, photos, and other valuable artifacts.

It is not uncommon for entry-level Archival Technicians to start their careers as Library Assistants or Museum Assistants, honing their skills in cataloging and collection management.

Candidates with around 3 to 4 years of experience usually have developed their technical skills in preserving and restoring documents and artifacts, as well as using archival software.

They often have experience in researching and aiding scholars or researchers in accessing archival materials.

Those with more than 5 years of experience have likely taken on advanced responsibilities such as supervising the work of junior technicians, conducting workshops on archival preservation, or even managing the entire archival department.

Such candidates may be ready for a managerial or team-lead position within the archival department.

Advanced roles may also require specialized training or certification in archival science, as well as experience with specific types of collections or documents.

 

Archival Technician Education and Training Requirements

Archival Technicians typically need a bachelor’s degree in library science, history, or a related field.

Courses in these programs often cover topics such as document preservation, archival management, historical research methods, and digital archiving.

Some programs may offer specializations in areas such as cultural heritage preservation or digital curation.

In addition to formal education, archival technicians need computer skills and should be familiar with database management software and digitizing equipment.

Experience gained through internships or work-study programs in archives or libraries is highly beneficial for prospective archival technicians.

While not always required, obtaining certification from the Academy of Certified Archivists can demonstrate professional expertise and commitment to the field.

This requires meeting educational and experiential qualifications and passing an exam.

For advancement in the field, a master’s degree in archival studies, library science, or a related field may be necessary.

Some archival technicians may also decide to pursue a doctoral degree, particularly if they are interested in a career in academic or research libraries.

 

Archival Technician Salary Expectations

An Archival Technician can expect to earn an average salary of $48,400 (USD) annually.

The actual earnings may vary depending on factors such as experience, the type of institution they work for, and the geographical location.

 

Archival Technician Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Archival Technician need?

Archival Technicians should possess strong organizational skills to handle and categorize a variety of documents efficiently.

They should also have excellent attention to detail for accurate preservation and recording of historical materials.

Technical skills, such as knowledge of database management and digitization processes, are also important.

Good communication skills are necessary to interact with researchers, staff, and the public.

 

Do Archival Technicians need a degree?

Most Archival Technicians need a bachelor’s degree in history, library science, archival science, or a related field.

Some employers might also require a master’s degree in archival science or history.

Certification from organizations like the Academy of Certified Archivists can further enhance job prospects.

 

What should you look for in an Archival Technician resume?

Look for a degree in a relevant field and any additional certifications.

Experience in handling archives, working with digitization tools, and managing databases are important.

Also, check for soft skills such as attention to detail, organizational skills, and communication skills.

It’s also beneficial if the candidate has experience working with the public or conducting research.

 

What qualities make a good Archival Technician?

A good Archival Technician has a strong interest in and respect for history and the preservation of historical materials.

They possess excellent organizational and detail-oriented skills for cataloguing and preserving materials.

They should also have strong technical skills for digitizing materials and managing databases.

Good communication skills are necessary to assist researchers and interact with the public.

 

What are the daily duties of an Archival Technician?

On a typical day, an Archival Technician may catalog new materials, digitize physical documents, assist researchers in finding specific information, and maintain the organization and cleanliness of the archives.

They may also conduct minor restoration work on damaged documents and ensure the correct environmental conditions in the storage areas to preserve the materials.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve explored the depths and intricacies of being an archival technician.

Surprised?

It’s not just about sorting papers and dusting shelves.

It’s about preserving history, one document at a time.

Armed with our detailed archival technician job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to make your move.

But why halt your journey here?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your bridge to meticulously curated job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every document is a piece of the grand historical puzzle.

Let’s preserve that history. Together.

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