City of Austin - JOB DESCRIPTION

Archivist II

Under limited direction, processes archival collections and City of Austin records, provides reference services to the public, and provides public programs.

1. Appraises, organizes, processes, catalogs and conserves archival collections and materials.
2. Curates one or more of the collection units (Periodicals, Maps, Recordings, Photos, etc.) by making selection and acquisition decisions, processing and cataloging materials in that unit.
3. Compiles finding aids, reference guides, articles, statistics and reports
4. Provides archival reference and research services.
5. Assists with the acquisition and appraisal of collections by helping to determine whether the collection or acquisition is suitable for inclusion in the AHC collections; generally done under supervision of the AHC manager or a supervisor
6. Provides public liaison activities including lectures, media appearances and interviews.
7. Explains research policies and procedures, demonstrates research methods, explains the use of reference materials/equipment and explains fees to customers.
8. Coordinates and conducts meetings, training, tours, and public programs to the public and staff.
9. Assists in planning exhibits by organizing and interpreting historical records for public presentation.
10. May serve as the collections registrar by registering donations into the collection (this is an archives and museum function) and maintaining donor records]
11. Serves as ‘in-charge’ staff person in management’s absence.

May provide leadership, work assignments, evaluation, training, and guidance to others.

• Knowledge of archival and Encoded Archival Description standards, issues, practices, and trends.
• Knowledge of reference tools and procedures.
• Knowledge of records management issues and practices.
• Knowledge of digital imaging issues and trends, especially in regards to archival practice.
• Knowledge of electronic records management and preservation.
• Skill in processing/arranging archival collections.
• Skill in oral and written communication including presentation.
• Skill in organizing and interpreting historical records for public presentation.
• Skill in using computers and related software, including Microsoft Office products.
• Skill in prioritizing work assignments.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective relationships with City employees and the public.
• Ability to use and apply standards for archival description, cataloging, and networked resource sharing for archival objects and descriptions.
• Ability to appraise records for archival and/or historical significance.
• Ability to work with people of diverse backgrounds.

• Master’s degree in Library or Information Science, or related to the assigned program from an ALA accredited university, with specialization in archival enterprise and/or administration, plus two (2) years professional experience working in an archives, library, museum, or other cultural heritage institution
• Master’s degree in History/Public History with coursework in archival administration, or a Master’s Degree in a related field, may substitute for the required Master’s degree in Library or Information Science.

May require a valid operator’s license and the use of a personal vehicle.