Processing Archivist - Private Business & Family Archive

Posted on 10/1/26

Processing Archivist

(Private Archive – Birmingham, Michigan)

(Full-time, Hourly: Salary Range $30-$35/hour)

A private business and family archive seeks a full-time Processing Archivist. Working under the supervision of the Archive Director and Archive Manager and in cooperation with a larger team, the archivist will organize, digitize, catalog, and re-house materials including digital files, documents, newsprint, photographs, and objects. The candidate will be trained to manage the collection using Vernon CMS. Other, sometimes urgent, research requests or special projects will often be required.

The ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree (master’s preferred) in Library Science, Museum Studies or related field and 1-7 years of experience processing and cataloging historical collections, along with a strong knowledge of current digital preservation standards.

This role is 80% on site and offers a unique opportunity to work with a world-class team in a private office environment. This position requires the ability to stand for long periods of time and to lift and carry up to 40 pounds.

Key Responsibilities

• Evaluate, sort, arrange, and describe materials according to archival principles.
• Perform rehousing, reformatting, and other preservation measures as needed.
• Create structured, detailed descriptions for narrative finding aids and database entries.
• Manage the physical collections as needed, including shelving, shifting, and moving as required.
• Update department records for the intellectual control and description of archival materials.
• Assist with research requests by identifying materials of interest and supplying requested information.

Key Qualifications

• Comprehensive knowledge of standards, best practices, ethics, resources, and trends in special collections and archives, particularly related to archival processing and collections management.
• Demonstrated ability to perform technical aspects of work assignments, including the ability to interpret and quickly learn collection infrastructure, policies, procedures, and operations. Ability to evaluate procedures and recommend changes and use sound judgment to resolve complex issues. 
• Ability to think critically and shift perspective in order to create effective arrangements and descriptions of archival collections.
• Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to adapt to change with flexibility, creativity, and sound judgment.
• Ability to learn new skills through research and self-study.
• Experience working both independently and collaboratively in a collegial, team-based environment and maintaining positive working relationships.
• Unwavering commitment to professionalism and confidentiality at all times.
• Excellent planning, project management, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

Benefit Eligibility

This position is eligible for full-time employee benefits. As part of your total compensation, the Company offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, and paid time off.

Required Background Check

Employment at the Company is contingent on passing a background check. Only final candidates who are extended an offer of employment will undergo a background check.

EEOC Statement

The Company is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, genetic information or any other legally protected status, in accordance with applicable federal, state and local EEO laws.

For consideration, please include a resume and cover letter to heather@heathergahirconsulting.com.