Archivist, Japanese American National Museum, Los Angeles CA
Posted October 4, 2013
Japanese American National Museum, home of the National Center for the Preservation of Democracy, is based in Los Angeles’ historic Little Tokyo neighborhood, it has a nation-wide focus and international base of support. An affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution and AAM accredited, the National Museum (www.janm.org) is recognized as one of the nations’ premier cultural museums. In 2010, the Japanese American National Museum was awarded America’s highest honor for museums, the National Medal from the IMLS. The permanent collection contains over 60,000 unique artifacts, document and photographs.
The Archivist is responsible for the management of the National Museum’s archival holdings within the permanent collection and institutional archive. This includes oversight of the correct application of professional standards within the archival program; management of archives-based grant and special projects; prioritization of backlogs and facilitation of processing work flows; providing and promoting access to open collections; assisting researchers; processing collections; drafting and reviewing finding aids; and supervising interns and volunteers in collections work. Serve as lead archivist on the Buddhist Churches of America Archives, overseeing processing, preservation, and access of the collection, including writing series and folder-level finding aids to be submitted to the Online Archive of California; oversee collection development of incoming or new materials; act as coordinating representative for the National Museum at bi-annual BCA/JANM Archives Advisory Committee meetings and for other BCA events and projects. Requires some weekends and or evening hours. Master’s in Information or Library Science with a concentration in archival studies from an ALA-accredited library school as well as Bachelor’s in humanities, arts or social science. Minimum 2 years professional experience working in an archives, museum or manuscript repository. Demonstrated knowledge of contemporary archival standards and records management principles and practices. Familiarity with community-based organizations with non-traditional means of promoting use of archival and library materials. Requires basic technical competence with electronic means of recording and managing data. Commitment to serving the public and working as a team. Knowledge of Japanese American history and culture a plus, Japanese language skills preferred but not required.
Demonstrated ability to engage, train and supervise Interns and Volunteers, process collections and develop print and electronic finding aids. Requires strong interpersonal skills including ability to communicate with staff and public both verbally and in writing. Ability to write reports as well as grant and project proposals. Familiarity with ARGUS collections management database.
Visit http://www.janm.org/jobs/ for full JD and application form. EOE.
Benefits: M, D, FSA, ERISA 403(b), 12 holidays, sick/vacation time, parking, discounts in museum store and Chado tea room.
Submit: Cover Letter, application and resume with salary history/requirements
Japanese American National Museum
Attn: Human Resources
100 N. Central Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Re: Archivist
Email: [email protected]
Fax (213) 830-5673
No Phone Calls Please