Archival Digitization Specialist

LAC Federal is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Digitization Specialist to support the digitization of archival photographic collections. This position plays a key role in preserving and improving online access to historically significant photographic records through high-resolution digital imaging, image post-processing, and metadata creation activities.

The successful candidate will work on-site in Landover, Maryland, using professional digital imaging equipment and archival handling techniques to digitize photographic negatives, slides, and transparencies in accordance with established archival standards and protocols.

• Digitize archival slides, negatives, and transmissive materials using professional overhead camera systems and copystand photography workflows
• Calibrate imaging equipment daily and maintain image quality standards throughout production activities
• Handle fragile archival materials using proper preservation and conservation practices
• Remove items from archival housings and sleeves and perform light dust removal prior to imaging
• Perform image post-processing activities including cropping, color correction, skew adjustment, exposure balancing, and dust cleanup using Adobe Photoshop and related software
• Produce preservation-quality TIFF files meeting Smithsonian technical specifications
• Create and maintain technical and descriptive metadata records in Excel spreadsheets and collection systems
• Apply standardized file naming conventions and metadata transcription procedures
• Store and organize digital assets on designated network drives
• Coordinate with Smithsonian staff regarding workflows, imaging priorities, quality control, and production schedules
• Maintain accurate production statistics and timesheets

• Bachelor’s degree in library science, Archives, Museum Studies, Photography, Digital Humanities, History, Information Science, or a related field; equivalent professional experience may be considered
• Minimum 2–4 years of experience supporting archival digitization, digital imaging, museum collections, libraries, archives, or cultural heritage organizations
• Experience digitizing transmissive materials such as slides, negatives, transparencies, or photographic collections
• Experience with digital photography workflows using copy stands or overhead camera systems
• Proficiency with Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Bridge, and Microsoft Excel
• Experience generating descriptive and technical metadata
• Demonstrated ability to handle fragile archival and museum collections carefully and accurately
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently in a production-oriented environment
• Ability to lift archival boxes and work at imaging workstations for extended periods

• Coursework or background in archives, special collections, photography, museum studies, or preservation
• Experience with digital asset management systems (DAMS), preferably Open Text Media Management
• Familiarity with TIFF preservation imaging standards, color management, and image quality control
• Experience working in federal, museum, library, or cultural heritage environments
• Understanding of archival description and metadata standards

• Ability to lift, carry, and move archival boxes, imaging equipment, and collection materials weighing up to 30 pounds, with frequent bending, reaching, and handling of materials throughout the workday.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while operating digital imaging workstations, copystand photography equipment, and computer systems requiring repetitive hand and wrist movements.
• Ability to work in archival and collections environments while safely handling fragile and historically significant materials using established preservation and conservation procedures.

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
• Short Term & Long-Term Disability
• Training & Development

The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.