Offsite Collections Facility Processing Archivist (Lib. Asst. 3) – University of MN Twin Cities

Processing Archivist

4997 Library Assistant 3 (2-yr Temporary)
Salary Minimum:  42,952+ depending on qualifications

Duties and Responsibilities
The Processing Archivist position is a 2 year, full-time, position for the University of Minnesota Archives and Special Collections, a Department of the University of Minnesota Libraries. The Processing Archivist is responsible for independently processing and reprocessing  large and/or complex archival collections for the Department, leading space management projects, updating and creating records in ArchivesSpace, and making recommendations for deaccessioning material. The Archivist will work closely with the Head of Archival Processing and Collection Unit staff.  The Archivist will lead processing and arrangement of collections and the completion of finding aids in compliance with best practices.  The position reports directly to the Head of Archival Processing.

Project Management and Administration (40%)

• Develop processing work plans with milestones for project completion.
• Manage project documentation and processing statistics.
• Develop and implement work plans and manage milestones for project completion.
• Contribute to Department committees or working groups related to archival description.
• Work collaboratively to create work procedures and improve workflows.
• Recommend deselecting or deaccessioning, when appropriate.
• Participate in relevant internal training opportunities.

Archival Processing (60%)

• Survey collections for priorities, preservation, and planning.
• Create and update collection guides with location metadata using ArchivesSpace
• Process/reprocess archival collections using national and local standards and best practices.
• Conduct background research on individual creators, departments, and affiliated organizations.
• Lead descriptive and structural metadata creation following archival metadata standards and best practices.

This is a full-time, 24-month, temporary position. Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.

Program/Unit Description
The University of Minnesota Libraries Department of Archives and Special Collections (ASC) is one of the largest archival holdings in the country.  The Department comprises 14 distinct collecting units, most of which include archival materials, and has relationships with other special collections units in the Libraries, including the Wangensteen Historical Library of Biology and Medicine and the Andersen Horticultural Library.  ASC has close working relationships with the Libraries IT service areas, as well as Collection Management and Preservation.

Required:

• College education can be substituted for archival experience on a year for year basis up to three (3) years plus two years of relevant archival experience and/or five (5) years of relevant archival experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge and professional experience with processing, arrangement, and description of archival collections.
• Demonstrated experience with archival descriptive and metadata standards.
• Ability to work independently and in cooperation with colleagues.
• Strong time management, organizational skills, and attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse communities and cultures.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze information and create work plans based on analysis.
• Position requires the operation of a stock picker (will be trained internally).
• Experience using ArchivesSpace or similar archival content management system.

Preferred

• Evidence of effective project planning, management, and completion with the ability to meet deadlines.
• High tolerance for ambiguity, yet capable of working with considerable detail.
• Demonstrated problem-solving, multitasking, and organizational skills.
• Experience handling fragile material and identifying preservation concerns.

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you’ll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning.  We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Scholarship
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services 
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

Applications must be submitted online.  To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions.  You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your “My Job Applications” page and uploading documents in the “My Cover Letters and Attachments” section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail [email protected] or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.  To learn more about diversity at the U:  http://diversity.umn.edu.

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

Please note: All employees at the University of Minnesota are required to comply with the University’s Administrative Policy: COVID-19 Vaccination and Safety Protocol by either providing proof of being fully vaccinated on their first day of employment, or complete a request for an exemption for medical exemption or religious reasons. To learn more please visit:  https://safe-campus.umn.edu/return-campus/get-the-vax

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation’s most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.