Archivist

The City of Seattle is seeking a dynamic, innovative, and service-oriented individual to serve as the City Archivist (Manager-LEG). This is a Civil Service exempt, regular position in the Office of the City Clerk, a division of the Legislative Department.

As City Archivist, you will manage the Seattle Municipal Archives and the Citywide Records Management programs, and the Information Services unit of the Office of the City Clerk – City-wide programs offering a rich resource of historical information on Seattle city government to the global public, and provide expert support of internal business functions and comprehensive records and information management services to City agencies.

Additionally, you will work to improve archives and records management practices across municipal departments, develop training programs, and guide policy implementation. You will champion and spearhead initiatives for electronic records management and provide expert advice on archives and records management.

The City Archivist role has general administrative responsibility for the development and implementation of these programs and the authority to recommend City-wide policies and rules related to the management and preservation of records. As a member of the Office of the City Clerk’s leadership team, you will report directly to the City Clerk and collaborate with management and leadership in the City Clerk's Office to carry out the vital historical information services function for City government and the citizens of Seattle.

The Archives and City Records Management units issue guidance and set policies for the City’s retention of records, general information management, and for the City’s historical records. It administers the City’s electronic records management and retention system and provides training and services to help City employees manage their records in accordance with Washington’s public records laws.

Seattle Municipal Archives provides reference services to City employees and the public, and outreach and education to strengthen understanding of public records laws, access rights, and the importance of government and historical records to the City, the community, and individuals. The historical records collection is extensive and contains a variety of formats dating back to the 1870’s. The division also partners with community groups, heritage organizations, and individuals working on initiatives that connect local history with the community.

The information Services team operates the Office of the City Clerk's Service Desk, manages Seattle's legislation, administers the City's domestic partnership registration program, receives and tracks mandatory City filings including consultant contracts, deeds, agreements, and reports; provides legislative research assistance; processes claim for damages. Responsibilities include post-passage legislative workflows, coordinating publication of passed legislation, and providing equitable access to City services both in-person and electronically.

We are looking for a proactive, adaptive, and collaborative person who has the knowledge and vision to lead the City of Seattle as records management needs evolve. Successful candidates are passionate about public records and making information accessible to the community and are committed to serving and supporting all aspects of managing records throughout their lifecycle.

• Establish, implement, and maintain a strategic plan and governance framework for the City to effectively and efficiently manage public agency records, information, and data regardless of physical format or characteristics, including developing strategies to ensure the collection and long—term accessibility of public records in all formats.
• Provide management and leadership direction and oversee all core functions for the SMA and CRMP Programs.
• Manage, select, instruct, schedule, train, and evaluate the activities of assigned personnel.
• Assist with staff recruiting and make hire recommendations.
• Lead city-wide efforts for…