George Washington’s Mount Vernon Seeking Special Collections Processing Archivist


George Washington’s Mount Vernon is seeking to hire a Special Collections Processing Archivist. The position reports to the Chief Librarian and works closely with the Special Collections Librarian to ensure proper care, documentation, management, and access to special collections holdings. This position is primarily responsible for tracking and managing data entry, electronic and physical documentation for receiving special collections manuscripts and books, relating to accessioning, loans (internal and external), and deaccessioning.  The Archivist processes, describes, and houses Special Collections manuscripts and archival collections.

S/he will coordinate with the Technical Services Librarian, who is responsible for cataloging rare books, and will work with the Special Collections Librarian and Museum Collections staff to track and coordinate the physical transfer of library material on loan for exhibit rotations.

 

Position: Special Collections Processing Archivist

Pay range: $60,000-$75,000

Type: Full-time, two-year term

Location: Mount Vernon, VA

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

 

Responsibilities:

  • Receives, tracks, and manages the electronic and physical documentation for incoming Special Collections acquisitions and items under temporary custody.
  • Processes and tracks electronic and physical documentation for Special Collections materials for accessioning, internal and external loans, and deaccessioning.
  • In coordination with the Special Collections Librarian, manages correspondence relating to accessioning and loans.
  • Maintains the quality and accuracy of data in Archives Space Special Collections Repository and creates, updates, maintains, and proofs records and reports.
  • Works closely with the Special Collections Librarian to review and ensure procedures and policies for data management are kept up-to-date.
  • Processes, arranges, and describes manuscripts and archival collections following Describing Archives: A Content Standard (DACS).
  • Rehouses manuscripts, collections, and other tasks to ensure preservation of materials.
  • Conducts inventories, condition reports, and implements preservation initiatives.
  • Monitors environmental conditions and manages cleaning schedule for storage spaces.
  • Assists with library tours and works with visiting researchers.
  • Other related duties as assigned.

Required qualifications:

  • ALA-accredited Master’s Degree in Library or Information Science with archives concentration, OR certification in archives combined with graduate degree in history
  • Experience in archival processing (appraisal, arrangement, and description) at item level
  • Familiarity with ArchivesSpace collections management software
  • Knowledge of Describing Archives: A Content Standard (DACS) Encoded Archival Description (EAD), and Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH)
  • Familiarity with preservation and conservation issues and practices
  • Demonstrated knowledge of current archival theory, practice, and standards
  • Experience in a Special Collections Library and/or Archives setting
  • Excellent skills for historical research, writing, and oral communication
  • Ability to perform work independently and as part of an integrated team
  • Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills and the ability to meet deadlines
  • Proficient computer skills, including MS Office Suite
  • Ability to lift a 30-pound box

 

Preferred qualifications

Experience with accessioning, loans, and de-accessioning in a library or museum setting.

For more details or to apply, please visit Mount Vernon’s employment page at https://www.mountvernon.org/about/employment/open-positions-at-mount-vernon