Research Archivist

Organization

:LIBRARY AND ARCHIVES COMMISSION

Job Overview

:The Reference Archivist I plays a crucial role in facilitating access to archival materials and providing assistance to patrons. This position involves conducting research and responding to inquiries with relevant information and resources. The individual will work under moderate supervision, exercising initiative and independent judgment within established guidelines.

Key Responsibilities
- Deliver basic information and reference support to visitors of the Texas State Archives through various communication channels.
- Contribute to the formulation of program objectives and goals in the assigned area.
- Uphold security protocols within the reference room.
- Review records for information exempt from disclosure and assist in the redaction process.
- Support archival workshops and educational seminars for both staff and patrons.
- Create or update inventories, indexes, and finding aids to enhance record accessibility.
- Perform additional related duties as assigned.
- Maintain regular attendance in accordance with agency policies.
- Adhere to all relevant agency policies and procedures, including safety standards.

Additional Duties
- Engage in special projects as needed.
- Assist in the development and preservation of collections.
- Aid in the preparation of reports, manuals, and publications.
- Facilitate tours, orientations, and presentations regarding archival holdings.

Required Qualifications
- A Master's degree from an accredited institution in history, government, library science, or a related field.
- Experience in providing archival reference support utilizing original records or public records.
- At least one year of public service experience in a library or archival environment.
- Proficiency in word processing, database management, and spreadsheet applications.
- Familiarity with state and local government records.
- Understanding of library and reference tools, techniques, and services.
- Knowledge of standard research methodologies.

Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in providing professional reference assistance with genealogical resources.
- Familiarity with state and federal government publications.
- Experience handling requests under the Texas Public Information Act.
- Knowledge of standard archival processing techniques.
- Strong understanding of U.S. and Texas history and government.
- Coursework in Texas history or U.S. government is advantageous.
- Experience in delivering presentations to diverse audiences.
- Familiarity with integrated library systems.

Skills and Abilities
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and set priorities effectively.
- Strong writing skills for reports and annotations.
- Effective oral and written communication skills.
- Capability to deliver public presentations.
- Ability to handle several reference inquiries simultaneously in a high-pressure environment.
- Proficient in conducting detailed historical research.

Work Environment
- Typical office setting with potential exposure to dust and allergens.
- Primarily sedentary work, with occasional lifting and moving of items weighing up to 40 pounds.
- Requires extended periods of computer use and may involve evening and weekend hours as necessary.

Other Requirements
- Submission of college transcripts and a writing sample is mandatory during the application process.
- An in-basket exercise will be conducted during the interview.
- A criminal history check will be performed upon a contingent offer.

Reporting Structure
- This position reports to the Information Services Supervisor.

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