Archivist I

Job Summary

Performs routine (journey-level) archival work. Work involves organizing, analyzing, and preserving records, archives, and manuscripts; preparing basic inventories, indexes, guides, and aids to facilitate access to information; and conducting research. Works under moderate supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Essential Tasks

• Organizes and processes government records and manuscripts in various formats including electronic
• Prepares indexes, inventories, EAD/DACS-compliant finding aids, and metadata, and provides information for catalog records, in accordance with accepted standards
• Researches, reviews, and appraises government records and manuscripts in all formats for archival value; recommends appropriate disposition; reviews records retention schedule appraisals
• Facilitates transfers of archival records from state agencies and donations of manuscripts from individuals; prepares accession records
• May review records for information excepted from disclosure by the Texas Public Information Act and assist with redaction of restricted records, which may include disturbing images or information
• Provides basic reference, research, and technical assistance to State Archives customers in person, by phone, or by mail
• Performs basic collection preservation, holdings maintenance, and relocation as required; identifies and recommends candidates for conservation treatment
• Attends work regularly and in accordance with agency leave and attendance policies
• Complies with all applicable agency policies and procedures, including safety and standards of conduct
• Assists with division outreach efforts including exhibits, presentations, and social media posts
• May serve on internal committees
• Performs other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

• Masters degree from an accredited college or university with a major in history, government, library science, or related discipline, with at least 3 semester hours completed in archival administration
• Work experience which can include intern, capstone, or volunteer experience equal to at least 6 months in the arrangement and description of archives and manuscripts
• Experience using word processing, database, and spreadsheet applications

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience using DACS, EAD, XML, and MARC
• Experience processing electronic records
• Experience conducting research or assisting others in an archive setting
• Experience accessioning archival materials
• Experience processing and preparing finding aids for government records or manuscripts
• Experience appraising government records or manuscripts
• Experience working with database or archival content management systems
• Coursework in Texas history and/or government
• Experience responding to requests under the Texas Public Information Act
• Certified Archivist designation
• Digital Archives Specialist certificate

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of archival methodology, practices, procedures, and standards
• Knowledge of archival principles, techniques, and standards in order to make critical judgments in the analysis and processing of materials in a variety of media, including appraisal, accessioning, arrangement, description, preservation, and reference
• Knowledge of standard research practices
• Knowledge of the Texas Public Information Act
• Skill in the use of standard office equipment and software
• Ability to work semi-independently, handle multiple tasks, set priorities, and exercise professional judgment
• Ability to collect, organize, research, and interpret information from various sources and to compose descriptive narratives
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
• Ability to work in a team environment
• Ability to write articles, reports, or annotations

Environmental/Physical Conditions

• Normal office work environment between 66 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit
• Occasional work in areas that may be cooler or warmer
• May have exposure to dust and environmental allergens consistent with normal business activities and human contact
• Mostly sedentary in nature but may involve moving; standing; pulling and pushing; kneeling, stooping, and bending; climbing stools and ladders; performing tasks requiring fine motor skill and coordination to safely move items weighing up to 40 pounds
• Must be able to work extended periods at a computer
• May require working extended hours and some evenings and weekends as needed
• Normal cognitive abilities including the ability to learn, recall, and apply certain practices and policies and interpret data
• Travel may be required to attend training and meetings
• Ability to work in a non-smoking environment

Other Requirements

• College transcripts (undergraduate and graduate) must be submitted at the time of application
• Submission of a DACS-compliant finding aid developed solely by the applicant must be received at the time of application
• Criminal history check will be required upon contingent offer

Reporting Relationships

• Reports to Archives Supervisor
• No supervisory responsibilities

TSLAC is an Equal Opportunity Employer

• Does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age or disability in employment or in the provision of services, programs, or activities.

Contact Information

• For job opening inquiries or to request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act please contact the TSLAC Human Resources office by calling 512-463-5474.

Application Submission

• Applications submitted to TSLAC may be subject to public disclosure, upon request, pursuant to the Texas Public Information Act.

Veterans, Reservist or Guardsmen

• With an MOS or additional duties that fall in the fields for related fields pertaining to the minimum qualifications.