Contract Archivist

Description

The archivist will assist the Manager of Heritage Communications by preserving, providing access to and updating the Milwaukee archives collection, including assisting in research and in fulfilling requests for historical information and imagery by internal and external stakeholders. This includes processing and cataloging collection items and ensuring materials are properly described and stored for immediate retrieval. The archivist has responsibility for identifying preservation concerns and performing or recommending necessary action. The role will also assist in continued development of the physical archive storage space.

Candidate will work an average of 24 hours (three days) per week. This position will be done on a contract basis, with a maximum term of three years.

The candidate will:

Provide reference services and fulfill requests for information, documentation, images, loans and display items for internal employees and external stakeholders.
Catalog items in the current collection (including packaging, still images and video) as needed and input new items as they are received and accessioned.
Identify items with conservation/preservation concerns and perform basic preservation or research and recommend conservation.
Using the collection plan, identify and collect items that document and/or preserve an essential part company history and items that can support the company in the future.
Work with the Manager of Heritage Communications to identify and execute opportunities to leverage archive assets and company history with internal employees and external stakeholders.
Conducting original historical research as required.
Assist in planning for and development of upgraded Milwaukee archive storage space.
Assist in directing the work of contract cataloguers and other vendors as required.

The position requires:

Bachelors’ degree. Desired education/experience in a Library Science/Archives degree program – either currently enrolled or graduated. Job-relevant work experience also preferred.
Experience in doing historical research for customers or clients.
Demonstrated experience with a corporate history collection(s) is beneficial.
Knowledge of the principles of archival appraisal, arrangement and description. Basic library cataloguing and database skills.
Awareness of emerging technologies for electronic and digital storage and access, including familiarity with the principals of digital reformatting, such as scanning and digitizing.
High level of sensitivity to confidential materials and situations and a proven ability to work competently and diplomatically under pressure.
Computer skills: Microsoft Office Suite, SharePoint and scanning, photo editing, and archival software. Experience in Proficio/Re:discovery a plus.
Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, detail oriented, organization and problem-solving, and strong customer service. Must have strong self-management skills in an environment where multiple tasks and demands are occurring.
Ability to travel for business as needed.
Requires physical fitness; must be able to lift 35-40 pounds, climb ladders, stairs, etc.