Temporary Project Archivist, Rhode Island School of Design, (Providence, RI)

Posted November 13, 2025

JOB DESCRIPTION:
Reporting to the Director, Fleet Library, this temporary role focuses on processing several small,
visually-oriented collections in the Graphic Design and Illustration Archive. This position is responsible for surveying collections to create and implement processing plans that will result in improved physical arrangement, description, and access to collections, as well as maintaining project workflows and documentation. The role also involves identifying materials for digitization for both preservation/safe handling considerations as well as teaching and outreach efforts. Candidates should have an MLIS or equivalent experience, a strong understanding of archival standards and preservation practices, experience working with visual materials, and an interest in graphic design and public history.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & DUTIES:

Develop and complete an inventory, needs assessment, and processing plan for several small (<20 linear feet) and mostly visual material collections in the Graphic Design and Illustration Archive.
Survey archival collections to determine arrangement and description procedures, preservation requirements, and potential restrictions.
Arrange and describe materials in accordance with processing plans.
Create a preliminary finding aid (including box or folder level inventory) for each collection using ArchivesSpace. This should include a description of the creator of the records as well as the subject content of the materials.
Perform basic preservation work to stabilize collections including rehousing material and removing harmful fasteners.
Identify, access, describe, and make duplication plans for at-risk material.
Identify records that are candidates for digitization, teaching, social media, and outreach.
Develop and maintain project workflows, timelines, and statistics.
Share and present updates about work with the Director, Fleet Library.
Supervise student employees assigned to project tasks.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & EXPERIENCE :

Master’s degree in Library and Information Science or allied field from an accredited institution, or equivalent experience.
Ability to work independently and utilize knowledge gained from previous experiences to inform decisions and tasks regarding the Archives and its materials.
Hands on experience at an organization preserving, arranging, and describing archival collections.
Ability to synthesize and summarize information in clear and concise language for use in collection description.
Demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in the use and application of current national data standards related to the archival control of collection materials such as DACS, EAD, LCSH, and MODS.
Knowledge of best practices in handling and preservation of archival material.
Core competencies of visual literacy.
Ability to collaborate, communicate, and present in a group environment.
Interest in or knowledge of graphic design.
Commitment to maintaining knowledge of best practices in regards to current discussions around archives, cultural heritage, and public history.
Experience with ArchivesSpace preferred.

JOB DETAILS:

Union: No
Employment Status: Part-Time, Non-Exempt
Grade: NA
Reports to: Director, Fleet Library

How to Apply:

Using the Rhode Island of Design’s Workday website, applicants need to submit both a cover letter and resume.