Projects Archivist, Special Collections Research Center, The University of Chicago Library, Chicago, IL
Posted February 27, 2018
The University of Chicago Library is seeking an experienced archivist for a one-year term appointment, with the possibility of renewal, to process selected large and complex archival and manuscript collections, especially collections of academic faculty papers.
Under the direction of the Head of Archives Processing and Digital Access, Special Collections Research Center (SCRC), the Projects Archivist provides intellectual access and processing for archives and manuscript collections. Collaborates and contributes to the development and implementation of strategies, standards, and programs for making available collections in all formats. Manages student staff. Participates in establishing priorities for the archives and manuscripts unit. Supports collection development activities; participates in programs of the Special Collections Research Center.
Essential Functions:
Processing and Intellectual Access for Archives and Manuscripts Collections: Arranges, describes, and catalogs collections in all formats; contributes to development of strategies for streamlining processing to increase access to collections; prepares finding aids and other descriptive access tools, sets processing priorities in accordance with established goals; appraises content of collections; develops processing plans and defines levels of description for individual collections; assures appropriate housing and storage of collections; refers items for preservation treatment; participates in planning for space and facilities for collections; participates in grant and donor funded projects.
Hires, trains, and assesses performance of student staff; sets goals for staff to achieve processing priorities; ensures that goals are met, resolves issues that arise.
Contributes to SCRC and Library goals; reports on processing and other projects; supports and participates in Special Collections donor relations activities for archives and manuscripts collections; participates in Special Collections programs, including reference; serves on Library committees and groups as appropriate; maintains and develops knowledge of current developments in archival processing, metadata standards, electronic records management, and preservation.
The successful candidate must have: Master’s degree from an ALA-accredited program; a minimum of three years of related archival and manuscript experience; demonstrated experience processing large and complex collections, especially of academic faculty papers; demonstrated commitment to professional development.
The Search Committee will evaluate the candidate’s ability to: conceptualize and organize large collections in diverse formats and meet processing goals and deadlines; knowledge of standards for description of manuscript and archival materials; writing skills; judgment and discretion; communication and interpersonal skills including ability to interact with donors; and ability to work effectively and collegially. Additionally, the Committee seeks candidates with supervisory experience, familiarity with EAD for encoding of finding aids, ability to lift a 40-pound box.
To Apply:
Submit cover letter, curriculum vitae, and reference contact information. Applications must be submitted to https://academiccareers.uchicago.edu, Requisition #03651 or via Quicklink: https://tinyurl.com/ycfgnjzg
Contact Shauna Babcock, Library HR, [email protected], with questions.
Review of applications will begin March 26, 2018. Screening of applications will continue until the position is filled or the search is closed.
Salary and Benefits:
Appointment salary based on qualifications and experience. Benefits include retirement plan, insurance, and paid time off.
The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law.
For additional information please see the University’s Notice of Nondiscrimination at http://www.uchicago.edu/about/non_discrimination_statement/.
Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-0287 or email [email protected] with their request.
For more information, see here.