Museum Archivist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of cultural preservation, the focus on museum archivists has never been sharper.

As society evolves, the demand for skilled professionals who can organize, preserve, and interpret historical materials grows exponentially.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a museum archivist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker attempting to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the inner workings of museum archiving,

You’ve come to the right place.

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

Let’s dive right in.

Museum Archivist Duties and Responsibilities

Museum Archivists are responsible for the preservation, cataloging, and management of collections in a museum.

They work closely with historical artifacts, documents, and other items, and play an integral role in the access, interpretation, and safekeeping of these collections.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Acquire, manage, and maintain the museum’s collection of artifacts and records
• Catalog and classify archival records to ensure accessibility for public or research use
• Preserve collections by organizing and storing items under appropriate conditions to prevent deterioration
• Assist researchers and visitors, providing access to the museum’s archives
• Digitize records and collections for online access and preservation
• Research the provenance and significance of artifacts to provide accurate information for museum exhibits
• Work with curators and other museum staff to develop and install exhibits
• Establish and implement archive policies and procedures
• Apply for grants and manage the budget for the archive department
• Conduct educational programs and workshops for the public

 

Museum Archivist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Museum Archivist to manage our institution’s collections of documents and records.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for acquiring, managing, and maintaining items of historical importance.

Museum Archivist responsibilities include arranging, cataloguing, and preserving valuable items and documents.

You should have a great eye for detail and a deep understanding of archival theory and practice.

Ultimately, the role of the Museum Archivist is to ensure that our historic items and documents are well-preserved, accessible, and utilized effectively for educational and research purposes.

 

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and acquire items of historical significance for the museum’s collection
• Organize, classify and catalogue collections of records and documents
• Preserve collections by implementing and maintaining appropriate conservation methods
• Provide access to the archives for researchers and visitors
• Conduct research to authenticate items and verify historical context
• Create and update electronic records and databases
• Develop and implement policies for managing institutional records
• Assist with exhibitions and displays
• Provide educational programs, presentations, and workshops for the public
• Collaborate with other institutions and professionals in the field

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Museum Archivist or similar role
• Strong understanding of archival theory and practice
• Experience with digitization efforts and database management
• Familiarity with collections management systems
• Excellent knowledge of preservation and conservation principles and techniques
• Strong research skills and attention to detail
• Ability to handle fragile and valuable items with care
• Master’s degree in Archival Studies, Library Science, History or a related field

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Museum Archivist
• Work Environment: Museum setting with possible travel for research and acquisitions.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Museum Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $52,000 minimum to $78,000 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 Museum Archivist Do?

Museum Archivists work in museums where they are responsible for the preservation, management, and acquisition of items and collections of historical, cultural, artistic, or scientific significance.

They are in charge of cataloging, processing, arranging, and describing records and artifacts, often using specialized computer software.

They also develop and maintain systems to safely store these items, which can range from documents and photographs to audiovisual materials and electronic records.

Their job also involves determining the authenticity and origin of these items and records.

They work with curators and other specialists to interpret items and plan the layout and organization of exhibits.

Museum Archivists often conduct research to contribute to public discourse and knowledge about specific historical events or items.

They may also provide reference services and assistance to researchers and visitors.

Furthermore, they might supervise and coordinate educational and public outreach programs, such as tours, workshops, lectures, and classes, to educate the public about the museum’s collections.

In addition, they may be responsible for applying for grants and managing the archive budget.

They also ensure the museum is compliant with laws and regulations regarding the acquisition, storage, and exhibition of items and collections.

 

Museum Archivist Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Museum Archivist should possess the following skills and qualifications that align with the role:

• Historical knowledge and understanding, to effectively categorize and interpret items and documents of historical importance.
• Organizational skills, critical for maintaining a coherent, accessible system of records and archives.
• Detail-oriented, to accurately catalog items, ensuring each artifact is properly identified, classified, and stored.
• Technical skills, necessary for digitizing archives and maintaining digital databases of artifacts.
• Interpersonal and communication skills, for coordinating with other museum staff and interacting with visitors or researchers.
• Research skills, often required to investigate the origin and significance of various artifacts or documents.
• Physical stamina, as the role may involve moving or arranging heavy artifacts or long hours of detailed, focused work.
• Problem-solving skills to troubleshoot issues related to cataloging, storage, and preservation of artifacts.

 

Museum Archivist Experience Requirements

Entry-level Museum Archivists are typically required to have a Master’s degree in history, library science, archival science, or a related field.

These professionals often gain practical experience through internships or part-time roles at museums, libraries, or other cultural institutions where they can learn the basics of preserving, cataloging, and managing collections.

Candidates with 1 to 2 years of experience may have worked on various projects involving historical research, digitization of archival materials, or exhibition planning.

They may have also gained experience in using archival management software, which is often a key requirement for these roles.

Museum Archivists with more than 3 years of experience often have substantial knowledge of archival theory and practice.

They have typically worked on larger, more complex archival projects and have developed strong research and cataloging skills.

Those with more than 5 years of experience usually have a proven track record of managing collections, planning exhibitions, and leading digitization projects.

They may also have some experience in managing staff or volunteers, and may be ready for a senior or managerial position within the museum.

In addition, these professionals often have a deep knowledge of a particular historical period or type of material, such as documents, photos, or audiovisual materials.

 

Museum Archivist Education and Training Requirements

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

These programs train students in various areas such as document preservation, collection management, cataloguing, and archival software.

Some positions, especially those in larger institutions or with specialized collections, may prefer or require Museum Archivists with a doctoral degree in a specific history or archival science discipline.

Museum Archivists also benefit from a comprehensive knowledge of the specific focus of the museum, whether it’s art, natural history, science, etc.

Certifications from the Academy of Certified Archivists, such as the Certified Archivist (CA) or the Certified Records Manager (CRM) may be beneficial.

Work experience, such as internships or volunteering in archives, museums, or libraries, is highly regarded by employers.

Continuing professional development through seminars, workshops, or courses is also encouraged to stay updated with the latest archiving practices and technologies.

 

Museum Archivist Salary Expectations

A Museum Archivist can expect to earn an average salary of $49,850 (USD) per year.

The salary can fluctuate based on factors such as professional experience, educational background, and the geographical location of the museum.

 

Museum Archivist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Museum Archivist need?

Museum Archivists should have an excellent attention to detail, organizational skills and critical thinking abilities to properly catalog and preserve various historical artifacts.

They should also have good communication skills to interact with museum staff, researchers, and visitors.

Computer skills are also essential as many museums have digital collections or use computer databases to manage their collections.

 

Do Museum Archivists need a degree?

Most Museum Archivist positions require a Master’s degree in library science, history, archival science, or a related field.

These programs often include coursework in preservation techniques, cataloging systems, and digital archiving.

Some positions may also require prior experience, typically gained through internships or entry-level positions in libraries or museums.

 

What should you look for in a Museum Archivist resume?

In a Museum Archivist’s resume, look for a Master’s degree in a related field and any specific courses or certifications in archival science.

Previous experience in a museum, library, or archive is also highly beneficial.

Pay attention to any experience with digital archiving and database management, as this is becoming increasingly important in modern museums.

 

What qualities make a good Museum Archivist?

A good Museum Archivist is meticulous and organized, with a passion for history and preservation.

They need to have good problem-solving skills to develop and implement preservation and cataloging strategies.

Good communication skills are also necessary for explaining complex archival processes to non-specialists and interacting with museum visitors and researchers.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Museum Archivist?

Hiring a Museum Archivist can be challenging due to the specific set of skills and qualifications required for the role.

It can be difficult to find candidates with the right educational background, experience, and passion for the work.

However, advertising the role on specific museum or archival job boards and at related conferences or events can help attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we uncovered the intricate world of a museum archivist.

Surprised?

It’s not just about dealing with dusty old documents.

It’s about cherishing, preserving, and interpreting the past, one historical artifact at a time.

With our comprehensive museum archivist job description template and practical examples, you’re all set to embark on a captivating journey.

But why end here?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your essential tool for meticulously crafted job listings or refining your resume to museum-grade excellence.

Keep in mind:

Each artifact is a piece of our shared story.

Let’s value that history. Together.

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