Senior Archivist, Collections

Department: Library

Reports to: Manager, Special Collections

Job Type: Regular – Full-time
Job Classification: Hourly (Non-exempt)

Workplace

Location:

Los Angeles – Margaret Herrick Library

The Senior Archivist is responsible for arranging and describing manuscript, or paper-based, collections, which can include large-scale holdings held by the Special Collections department. The position supports the department’s cataloging functions at a high level, which may include leading departmental cataloging meetings, creating authority records for works, persons, and institutions, and serving on committees. In addition, the Senior Archivist will collaborate closely with other departments, including the Museum, Library loans and exhibitions, Digital Studio, and Conservation.

• Process (arranges, organizes, describes, and preserves) Special Collections manuscript and record materials in all formats for public research use in accordance with department and national standards.
• Organize and rehouse collections; analyze documents for topical content to describe individual documents correctly; identify sensitive materials, research the historical context of collections and their creators; produce catalog records and find aids using the Academy’s collections management database; research and write collection scope and content notes.
• Develop and write processing plans.
• Make decisions on arrangement and description in consultation with the Collections Archivist and Associate Director of Special Collections. Ensure that material is processed according to best practices and at an appropriate level of detail.
• Follow national standards for archival description, such as Describing Archives: A Content Standard (DACS) and UC Guidelines for Efficient Processing of Manuscript & Archival Materials.
• Other duties as assigned.

• A master's degree from an ALA-accredited program in library and information science.
• A bachelor’s degree in film studies, history, art history, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of cataloging experience in an archive or library; 7 to 10 years preferred.
• Understanding of the principles of arrangement and description of archival collections and knowledge of archival best practices and current developments.
• Working knowledge of current descriptive standards, including DACS.
• Knowledge of American film history.
• Ability to communicate both simple and complex ideas effectively, both orally and in writing, to people with varying degrees of knowledge of archival theory and practice.

• Set priorities, meet deadlines, and work independently and collaboratively.
• Strong communication and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong organizational skills; attend to details without losing sight of larger goals.
• Maintain high accuracy and attention to detail.
• Fluent English-language communication and writing skills required.

• Ability to read other languages is a plus.

• Must be able to move and remain in a stationary position for periods of more than 2 hours.
• Ability to climb stairs and retrieve and refile heavy boxes from shelving units using ladders and/or stepstools.
• Ability to move up to 40 pounds and safely move carts loaded up to 120 pounds.
• May have to tolerate dusty/dirty materials.

Full vaccination against COVID-19 is required, including any booster vaccinations as applicable.
Exception: Medical and religious accommodations approved by the Office of People & Culture.

The expected salary range for this role is $28.85- $31.25. The actual base pay offered will be determined by factors such as experience, skills, training, location, certifications, education, and other factors permitted by law. Decisions will be made on a case‑by‑case basis.

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Life insurance
• 15 days of PTO, plus company‑paid holidays.
• Additional time off including summer hours, winter hours, and a cultural floating holiday.
• Paid sick leave.
• Paid parental leave.
• 401k retirement plan with a company match
• Clean Air Commuter Program
• Employee Assistance Program through Cigna
• Wellness benefits through Comp Psych Guidance Resources
• Free access to 16,000+ online courses through Linked In Learning
• Free membership screenings
• Free tickets and screenings at the Academy Museum
• Employee discounts through Life Mart and Working Advantage