Processing Archivist, Massachusetts Archives, Boston, MA

Posted October 4, 2015

Acting on behalf of the Secretary of the Commonwealth, the Massachusetts Archives is responsible for securing, preserving, and managing for the public good those noncurrent records of state government deemed to have archival (permanent) value. The collection ranges from records created by the government of Massachusetts Bay in the 1630’s through contemporary legislative and executive department holdings. The Archives currently houses over 30,000 cubic feet of records and looks to expand its collection over the next few years, with increased emphasis on electronic records.

Job Description:  the Processing Archivist will work collaboratively with the Accessions Archivist and Senior Processing Archivist in all aspects of archival accessions, processing, and description. This is a full-time position and includes state benefits. 

Job responsibilities:  the Processing Archivist will organize and rehouse collections; identify sensitive materials; research the historical context of collections; produce catalog records and finding aids using MARC format and a commercial Archival Collection Management System; work with special formats including photographs, moving images, and born-digital records; and assist with new accessions.

Qualifications:  the ideal candidate will have a Master’s degree in library/information science or history and one to two years’ experience as a processing archivist. They must be able to work independently and as a team member, with strong attention to detail, and have excellent verbal and written communication skills.  The candidate should have demonstrated knowledge of archives practice and familiarity with accepted conservation and preservation methods. They must be able to lift and carry a 40 pound box.

Preferences:  if possible, the candidate should also be familiar with Archival Collection Management Systems such as Re:Discovery Proficio; have basic knowledge of Massachusetts history; have experience processing large collections; and experience working with legislative records.

Please send resume and cover letter to:

Martha Clark, Curator

Massachusetts Archives

220 Morrissey Boulevard

Boston, MA  02125

Email:  [email protected]

Phone:  617-727-2816