Corporate Archivist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the modern business landscape, the role of corporate archivists has never been more pivotal.

As corporate histories evolve and expand, the demand for skilled professionals who can meticulously curate, manage and safeguard these valuable records grows ever stronger.

But what exactly is expected from a corporate archivist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker endeavoring to grasp the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager seeking to delineate the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the inner workings of corporate archiving,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable corporate archivist job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Corporate Archivist Duties and Responsibilities

Corporate Archivists are responsible for managing and preserving a company’s records and important documents.

Their role involves ensuring that these documents are easily accessible and well-organized.

The duties and responsibilities of a Corporate Archivist include:

• Collecting and preserving important company documents and records
• Organizing and cataloging archival records to ensure they are easily accessible
• Maintaining and updating database systems used for archival purposes
• Ensuring the preservation of documents and materials using appropriate conservation methods
• Assisting staff and researchers in locating and retrieving archived materials
• Establishing and implementing policies for the collection and preservation of materials
• Reviewing records for historical significance and retention value
• Training staff on proper records management and archival procedures
• Working with departments to coordinate the transfer of records to the archives
• Ensuring compliance with legal requirements for record retention

 

Corporate Archivist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented and organized Corporate Archivist to manage our organization’s records and important documents.

The Corporate Archivist’s responsibilities include implementing archiving strategies, cataloging collections, and conducting related research.

Our ideal candidate is familiar with traditional and digital archiving methods, and is able to keep up with technological advancements related to data preservation and storage.

Ultimately, the role of the Corporate Archivist is to ensure that all business records are well-organized, preserved, and easily accessible for reference purposes.

 

Responsibilities

• Implement effective strategies for categorizing and archiving company documents and records.
• Preserve and catalog collections in both paper and electronic formats.
• Conduct and facilitate research through the organization’s archives.
• Ensure all archives are in compliance with legal regulations for data protection.
• Provide training and guidance on record management to staff.
• Coordinate retrieval and disposal of archived documents as per company policies.
• Work closely with departments to understand their archiving needs.
• Prepare reports and presentations on the importance of archiving and record management.
• Supervise digitization projects and manage digital archives.
• Develop and implement disaster recovery plans for physical archives.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Corporate Archivist or similar role.
• Knowledge of traditional and digital archiving techniques.
• Experience with record management and preservation techniques.
• Familiarity with electronic document management systems.
• Strong organizational and cataloging skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing technological advancements in data preservation.
• Master’s degree in Library Science, Information Management, History, or a related field.

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Corporate Archivist
• Work Environment: This position is primarily office-based with occasional visits to storage facilities. Some remote work may be possible depending on the nature of the tasks.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Records Manager or Information Governance Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $75,000 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 a Corporate Archivist Do?

A Corporate Archivist typically works for large corporations, non-profit organizations, or governmental bodies.

They can also work as consultants providing archival services to various companies.

They are responsible for collecting, managing, and preserving the company’s historical documents and records.

This can include a wide range of materials such as correspondence, reports, memos, photographs, videos, databases, and digital files.

Their work involves cataloging these items in a manner that allows for easy retrieval and access.

This requires a deep understanding of the organization and its history, as well as the ability to use various cataloging systems and software.

They also provide access to these materials for staff and external researchers, and assist in their use.

This may involve answering queries, providing copies of documents, or guiding users through the archives.

In addition, Corporate Archivists often contribute to the creation of exhibits, publications, or presentations that highlight the company’s history and achievements.

They may also advise on legal requirements for record retention and disposal.

Overall, the role of a Corporate Archivist is crucial in preserving an organization’s legacy and providing valuable historical context for its operations.

 

Corporate Archivist Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Corporate Archivist should possess a specific set of skills and qualifications, including:

• Strong knowledge of record keeping and archival standards to ensure that company records are stored, cataloged, and retrievable effectively.
• Exceptional organizational skills for sorting, cataloging, and preserving important documents and materials.
• Proficiency in using archival software and databases to manage, access, and secure digital and physical records.
• Analytical skills to understand and interpret historical information and documents for internal stakeholders.
• Excellent communication skills to collaborate with staff across various departments, ensuring appropriate records management practices.
• Attention to detail for accurate and meticulous handling, preservation and documentation of archival materials.
• Research skills to aid internal teams in accessing specific data or information within the company’s archives.
• Understanding of legal and ethical issues related to records management, including privacy, data protection, and intellectual property rights.
• A degree in Information Science, History, or a related field, as well as experience in archives or records management, is often required.

 

Corporate Archivist Experience Requirements

Entry-level corporate archivist candidates typically have 1 to 2 years of experience, often obtained through internships or part-time roles in records management, archiving, or related fields.

They can also gain on-the-job experience in roles such as Records Management Assistant, Digital Archivist, Document Controller, or other information management-related roles.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often hone their skills and knowledge in entry-level corporate archivist roles.

During this time, they cultivate their expertise in managing, preserving, and cataloguing corporate historical documents and records.

Those with more than 5 years of experience typically have a background in supervisory roles and may be ready for managerial or team-lead positions within the archival department.

In addition to practical experience, a master’s degree in library science, history, archival science, or a related field is often preferred or required.

Professional certifications, such as the Certified Archivist designation, can also be beneficial.

Experience with specific archival software and knowledge of legal and regulatory requirements for record keeping in the specific industry of the corporation is often required.

Moreover, strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to problem-solve are crucial for success in this role.

 

Corporate Archivist Education and Training Requirements

Corporate Archivists typically require a bachelor’s degree in history, library science, archival science, or a related field.

This role often necessitates strong knowledge of record management and cataloging techniques.

Therefore, coursework or experience in these areas can be beneficial.

Many positions prefer candidates with a master’s degree in library science or archival studies, often with a concentration in digital archives and records management.

Additionally, some companies may require corporate archivists to have knowledge or experience in the particular industry of the company, such as finance, law, or healthcare.

Certification from the Academy of Certified Archivists (ACA) can also be advantageous.

This certification demonstrates professional competence and commitment to the archival profession.

In addition to formal education, corporate archivists should have excellent organizational and analytical skills, be detail-oriented, and have a good understanding of the latest archival software and digital preservation techniques.

Continuing education and professional development are also important as technology and archival standards evolve.

 

Corporate Archivist Salary Expectations

A Corporate Archivist earns an average salary of $51,925 (USD) per year.

However, the salary can fluctuate based on factors such as the level of experience, educational qualifications, and the location of the job.

The type of industry and size of the organization may also significantly influence a Corporate Archivist’s earnings.

 

Corporate Archivist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Corporate Archivist need?

Corporate Archivists require exceptional organizational and analytical skills to manage and interpret vast amounts of information.

They should have strong research skills to locate specific documents or data.

They should also be detail-oriented and have a strong knowledge of archival theory and practice.

Computer skills, such as knowledge of databases and digitization software, are also essential.

 

Do Corporate Archivists need a degree?

Yes, a Corporate Archivist typically needs a Master’s degree in history, library science, archival science, or a related field.

Many positions also require prior experience with archival work, which can be obtained through internships or entry-level positions.

Some roles may also require knowledge or expertise in a specific field, such as law or business.

 

What should you look for in a Corporate Archivist resume?

A Corporate Archivist’s resume should demonstrate their educational background in archival science or a related field.

It should also detail their experience with managing and preserving records, as well as any experience with digital preservation and data management.

The resume should also highlight their research skills and any experience they have in a specialized area relevant to your organization.

 

What qualities make a good Corporate Archivist?

A good Corporate Archivist has excellent attention to detail and is highly organized.

They have a passion for history and preservation and have strong research skills.

Good Corporate Archivists are also adaptable, capable of managing both physical and digital archives.

They have excellent communication skills, as they often have to explain complex archival processes to non-archivists.

 

What are the challenges faced by a Corporate Archivist?

Corporate Archivists face challenges such as managing large volumes of records, both physical and digital.

They must ensure these records are preserved, accessible, and organized in a manner that complies with laws and regulations.

They may also face issues related to data privacy and security, requiring them to have a good understanding of these areas.

Another challenge can be staying up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in digital preservation.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we have shone a light on the crucial role of a corporate archivist.

Guess what?

It’s not just about cataloging and preserving documents.

It’s about safeguarding the corporate memory and ensuring the continuity of our shared history, one record at a time.

With our comprehensive corporate archivist job description template and real-life instances, you’re all prepared to make a leap.

But why stop there?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your next step towards creating precise job postings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every document archived is a piece of the corporate narrative.

Let’s safeguard that story. Together.

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