Archivist

Description

The Preservation Society of Newport County is seeking a full time Archivist, reporting to the Director of Museum Affairs and Chief Curator, responsible for all aspects of the institutional and collections archives, records management program, and some library services. Major responsibilities include maintaining and updating archives and records management policies (including record retention schedules and procedures); the processing of archival collections; the maintenance of databases, finding aids, and other tools facilitating discovery of, and access to, the holdings of the archives and library; and providing public and internal reference services to a wide variety of users. The Archivist works closely with department staff to develop and implement policies and procedures for the collection, management, preservation, and usage of library and archival records.  

For the collections archive, this position will assist with the identification of appropriate materials for acquisition; and accession, process, describe and preserve new material, including by producing electronic records according to SEE and NARA standards and best practices. The archivist will also physically maintain the archives as well as process and properly house existing collections. The archivist will work jointly with the Collections Manager to develop schedules for the digitization of archival materials by the Digitization Specialist, following best practices. 

The Archivist develops a system to maintain a research library with support from the Collections Manager and Registrar. They create a system for the management of day-to-day activities related to the Preservation Society’s library collection to be followed by both staff and visiting researchers.

With respect to institutional archives, this position develops record keeping rules and regulations and maintains said practices for record retention schedules. The archivist oversees the semi-annual transfer and destruction of institutional records.

The Archivist, in collaboration with the Chief Conservator, applies proper preservation and conservation techniques to the archival collections.

The Archivist further provides outreach, and reference and research services to staff and external users, including by responding to image requests for publications, exhibitions, programming, publicity, etc. The archivist delivers presentations to the public and relevant audiences about the collection and other topics related to the Preservation Society’s mission. The archivist will represent the institution at professional and social events including conferences, workshops, symposia, colloquia, and meetings. 

The Archivist position is full-time and requires some evening hours, weekends, and holidays. Hours are scheduled in coordination with seasonal offerings.

Requirements

A desirable candidate will possess the following:

• MLS with a concentration in Archives Management or MA in Art History, American History, or other relevant discipline.
• At least five years’ experience in an archive or library role for an art, historical, or cultural museum. 
• Experience processing and describing archival collections and material.
• Thorough understanding of collections care, object handling, and storage and security of collections.
• Must be able to work collaboratively and independently. 
• Proven ability to train and manage interns and/or volunteers.
• Informed of ethical, legal, and technical matters relating to accessioning, deaccessioning, incoming and outgoing loans, and inventories.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Experience researching and presenting in public forums such as lectures, conferences, symposia, etc.
• Proficiency in working with collections database systems (ReDiscovery Proficio).
• Must know EAD coding for the creation of finding aids.
• Experience with Adobe Photoshop and digitally scanning archival material.
• Experience successfully managing relationships with colleagues and peers in the archive, museum, library, auction, gallery, and academic professions.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Physical performance
• Ability to carry up to 30 lbs., occasionally
• Facility gripping items, with and without gloves
• Experience handling various forms of fine and decorative art 
• Ability to work in small spaces or close to the ground
• Ability to ascend/descend ladders 
• Experience packing/unpacking objects for shipment 
• Ability to sit stationary at a desk while operating phones, computers, and tablets