"ARCHIVES TECHNICIAN"

Job Details

Overview:

We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented staff member to support the work of our archives. As the Archives Technician, you will play a vital role in preserving, organizing, and maintaining Ithaca College's historical records, special collections, and valuable documents. You will work collaboratively with colleagues across the library and campus to support access to and awareness of archival materials. Your commitment to accuracy, strong organizational skills, and passion for preserving cultural heritage will contribute to the ongoing success of our archives department.

Responsibilities:

• Collection Management: Organize, catalog, and maintain a wide range of historical documents, records, photographs, manuscripts, and other materials using established archival principles and best practices.
• Cataloging: Accurately describe and categorize archival materials, creating detailed finding aids, metadata, and indexes to facilitate easy retrieval and access for researchers and internal staff.
• Preservation: Ensure the proper preservation of archival materials through appropriate storage, handling, security, and environmental controls to prevent deterioration and damage over time.
• Digitization: Participate in digitization initiatives to create digital copies of physical items, expanding access to the collection while adhering to digitization standards.
• Reference Assistance: Assist campus and outside users in locating and accessing relevant materials (both physical and digital), providing courteous and knowledgeable service in person, over the phone, and via email.
• Exhibits and Outreach: Support the creation of physical or digital exhibits highlighting the archives. Contribute to social media posts, class presentations, or campus events that promote archival collections.
• Inventory Management: Maintain accurate records of the archives' holdings, acquisitions, donations, and loans, ensuring that materials are properly tracked and accounted for.
• Professional Development: Stay informed about current trends, technologies, and best practices in the field of archival science through ongoing training and professional development activities.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Archival Studies, Library Science, History, or related field.
• Knowledge of archival principles, practices, and standards.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Familiarity in archival cataloging and metadata standards and systems (e.g., MARC, EAD, DACS)
• Familiarity with digital preservation, file management, and digitization techniques.
• Excellent research and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication skills for assisting researchers and collaborating with colleagues.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Experience with archival software and content management systems is a plus.
• Knowledge of local history or specific subject matter related to the collection is desirable.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of legal and ethical considerations in digital archives and digitization activities in a higher education setting, including acquisition, access, and intellectual property.
• Two or more years of professional experience working with an archive or special collection.
• Knowledge of preservation techniques for fragile or deteriorating materials and/or for digital materials.
• Experience with establishing priorities and communicating those priorities to a variety of stakeholders.

Working Conditions:

This position is based in our archives facility and may require occasional lifting of boxes or materials, exposure to dust, and extended periods of standing while working with physical materials.

This position is 37.5 hours per week, 52 weeks per year.

Application Instructions:

Interested applicants must apply online and attach a resume, cover letter, and list of three professional references. Questions about online applications should be directed to the Office of Human Resources at (607) 274-8000 or humanresources@ithaca.edu.

Ithaca College is committed to building a diverse academic community and encourages members of underrepresented groups to apply. Experience that contributes to the diversity of the college is appreciated.

Visa sponsorship is not provided for this position.

Hiring Range:

$22.00 to $23.50 per hour, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

We pride ourselves on providing our benefit-eligible employees with comprehensive benefits, including:

• Healthcare including vision and dental
• Generous Paid Time Off Policies
• 403B Retirement Savings Plan with Matching Employer Contribution
• EAP
• Flexible Work Plans
• Educational Benefits
• Career-Enhancing Trainings
• For an overview of our benefit offerings, please visit https://www.ithaca.edu/human-resources/employee-benefits-wellness