Project Archivist (Term), Libraries
This position description encompasses two term-limited archivist positions. The archivists in these positions will arrange and describe the U.S. Senate papers of retired U.S. Senator Lamar Alexander for a period of two years. This collection contains a significant number of paper and electronic records. These papers will be added to the existing Lamar Alexander Papers, containing Alexander’s records from before his election as U.S. Senator in 2002.
The Special Collections and University Archives Library is part of the Jean and Alexander Heard Libraries System. The mission of the Special Collections Library is to collect, preserve, and provide access to Vanderbilt University’s impressive collection of rare books, manuscripts, photographs, memorabilia, and institutional archives. Special Collections supplies primary resource material to a variety of local, national, and international scholars.
Duties and Responsibilities
These positions report to the Curator of Special Collections and will work with both paper and electronic records alongside and in collaboration with each other.
The person in this position will:
- Arrange and describe a voluminous and diverse collection of historic documents in paper and electronic format according to standard archival practices.
- Create a DACS-compliant finding aid using ArchivesSpace.
- Process electronic records ensuring the materials are securely deposited into a digital preservation system and appropriately linked and/or described in the finding aid.
- Assist in the creation of access standards for paper and electronic materials in accordance with the Deed of Gift.
- Provide metrics for regular updates to the donor on processing status.
- Provide reference as required.
- Maintain confidentiality while working with sensitive documents.
Supervisory Relationships:
This position reports to the Curator of Special Collections. This position has the potential to supervise graduate student workers when available.
This is a full-time, exempt term position lasting up to two years.
Qualifications
- Master's Degree in Library or Information Science, advanced degree in History or Political Science, or certification through the Academy of Certified Archivists.
- One to three years of archival experience with a full knowledge of the archival process; related student work and internships will be considered
- Ability to work collaboratively with librarians, faculty, administrators and other university personnel
- Good written and oral communication skills
- Capacity to thrive in the changing environment of a major research institution
- Demonstrated project management skills
- Working knowledge of EAD-XML Schema, DACS, and metadata schemas
- Demonstrated knowledge of ArchivesSpace
- Ability to work independently
- Must be able to lift 40-50 lb. archival storage boxes and climb ladders
*A term position is a staff position that exists for a period longer than six months. Although a position may exist for a specified or indefinite period, staff who accept term positions are not guaranteed employment for the entire period; they are employed for indefinite periods within the limit of the appointment. There are no guarantees of continued employment, either within the term or when the term ends. If funds are exhausted or if your appointment is not extended, the position is not eligible for severance pay or reduction-in-force priority.
Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
At Vanderbilt University, we are intentional about and assume accountability for fostering advancement and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff. Our commitment to diversity makes us who we are. We have created a community that celebrates differences and lets individuality thrive. As part of this commitment, we actively value diversity in our workplace and learning environments as we seek to take advantage of the rich backgrounds and abilities of everyone. The diverse voices of Vanderbilt represent an invaluable resource for the University in its efforts to fulfill its mission and strive to be an example of excellence in higher education.
Vanderbilt University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities, and protected veterans are encouraged to apply.
Please note, all candidates selected for an offer of employment are subject to pre-employment background checks, which may include but are not limited to, based on the role for which they have been selected: criminal history, education verification, social media review, motor vehicle records, credit history, and professional license verification.