University of Michigan

Archivist for University Collections

ANN ARBOR, MIPosted 18 days ago

Job summary

  • Job post source

    This job is directly from University of Michigan

  • Job overview

    The Archivist for University Collections at the Bentley Historical Library is a three-year term position focused on processing and managing archival collections related to the University of Michigan, supporting the Inclusive History Project and contributing to the library's mission.

  • Responsibilities and impact

    The Archivist will process and manage physical and digital university records, manage metadata, supervise students, collaborate with various teams, provide reports, engage in professional development, participate in projects and committees, and support communications efforts.

  • Compensation and benefits

    The position offers an annual salary of $61,000, hybrid work mode, excellent benefits as detailed on the university's benefits website, and is subject to a collective bargaining agreement.

  • Experience and skills

    Candidates must have a master's degree with archival coursework or an advanced degree with relevant experience, at least one year of archival processing experience, knowledge of archival standards and methodologies, comfort with technology, and strong communication and teamwork skills.

  • Career development

    The role includes ongoing mentoring, professional development support, opportunities to attend conferences and workshops, and engagement in professional organizations.

  • Work environment and culture

    The Bentley Historical Library values collaboration, diversity, innovation, and practical application of archival standards, with a supportive environment for professional growth and knowledge sharing.

  • Company information

    The Bentley Historical Library at the University of Michigan collects and promotes the study of Michigan and university histories, housing over 11,000 collections and featuring a conservation lab and the historic Detroit Observatory.

  • Team overview

    The Archivist will join the Curation Team, consisting of archivists, conservators, technicians, and student workers, working collaboratively to process, conserve, digitize, and manage archival collections.

  • Job location and travel

    The position is hybrid based at the University of Michigan, with work agreements reviewed annually and subject to change.

  • Application process

    Applicants must submit a combined cover letter and resume including a sample finding aid, with options to email if needed; applications are reviewed continuously after a minimum seven-day posting period until filled.

  • Unique job features

    This role uniquely supports a presidential initiative (Inclusive History Project) and involves working with both physical and born-digital records using specialized archival management systems like ArchivesSpace and Archivematica.

Company overview

The University of Michigan is a renowned public research university located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Established in 1817, it offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines. The university generates revenue through tuition fees, research grants, public funding, and donations. Known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation, it has a rich history of academic excellence and is consistently ranked among the top universities globally.

How to land this job

  • Tailor your resume to highlight your archival experience, especially your skills in processing physical and born-digital collections, using archival standards like DACS and EAD, and familiarity with tools such as ArchivesSpace and Archivematica.

  • Emphasize your ability to collaborate across teams, manage multiple priorities, and your strong communication skills, as these are critical in the University of Michigan's Bentley Historical Library environment.

  • Apply through multiple platforms including the University of Michigan's official careers page and LinkedIn to maximize your chances of being noticed by the hiring team.

  • Connect with current archivists or members of the Bentley Historical Library's Curation Team on LinkedIn; open your message by referencing a recent University of Michigan archival project or the Inclusive History Project to show genuine interest and ask about their experience in the role.

  • Optimize your resume for ATS by including keywords from the job description such as 'archival processing,' 'born-digital preservation,' 'ArchivesSpace,' 'DACS,' 'collaborative environment,' and 'metadata management' to ensure your resume passes initial screenings.

  • Use Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate tailored applications, locate multiple application sites, and identify relevant LinkedIn contacts, freeing up your time to prepare for interviews and deepen your archival knowledge.

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