Processing Archivist, Assistant Librarian Job at Penn State University in Univer

Overview

Position: Processing Archivist, Libraries – Special Collections, Pennsylvania State University

This is a term position. Continuation past the term length discussed will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding. Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.

Position specifics

The Pennsylvania State University Libraries’ Special Collections seeks an organized, detail-oriented, and experienced Processing Archivist to join our Collection Services team. This role focuses on the management, processing, and description of large and complex record groups from organizations internal and external to the University. It also completes arrangement and description work for collections of personal and professional papers. The Processing Archivist engages in best practices for archives to ensure adherence to evolving descriptive standards. The ideal candidate will possess proven expertise in implementing innovative solutions for intricate archival challenges. Assistant Librarian candidates are required to hold a graduate degree in library or information studies or other appropriate degree; must have demonstrated potential ability as a librarian; and ideally show potential of growth in research and/or service.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive arrangement, appraisal, and description of large-scale and complex archival collections.
• Develop and execute processing plans for multi-format collections, including textual records, digital files, and audiovisual materials, which may include sensitive personal information.
• Apply archival description standards, including DACS (Describing Archives: A Content Standard), and metadata frameworks such as EAD (Encoded Archival Description) and MARC.
• Collaborate with Special Collections Library colleagues to establish priorities for processing, preservation, and digitization.
• Ensure collections are appropriately housed, stabilized, and described for research access and long-term stewardship and preservation.
• Create and update finding aids and inventories for use by researchers and stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with institutional policies, ethical guidelines, and legal requirements regarding archival practices.
• Participate in engagement and outreach efforts, including weekly reference duties, presentations, and public programming, to promote the institution’s collections.
• Foster an inclusive and welcoming professional environment that values individuals from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

Qualifications

Required:

• A graduate degree, including coursework in archives and/or records management.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in processing archival collections.
• Experience with archival management software (e.g., ArchivesSpace) and metadata standards.

Preferred:

• Master’s degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) or a related field from an ALA-accredited institution (or equivalent).
• Knowledge of preservation techniques for fragile or deteriorating materials and/or for digital materials
• Knowledge of born-digital appraisal, arrangement, and description strategies
• Experience in establishing priorities and communicating those priorities to a variety of stakeholders.
• Experience supervising students and/or volunteers in an archival processing context.
• Experience coordinating workflows and/or projects across departments.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary is commensurate with qualifications, education, and experience. In addition to a competitive salary, full-time employees receive a comprehensive benefits program, generous paid time off, and tuition discount for employees and eligible family members. Faculty in the University Libraries are afforded funds for professional development travel annually.

Application Process

All candidate materials must be submitted via Workday. Upload a cover letter and a resume or CV. Provide three professional references with one direct supervisor, one colleague, and one at the candidate’s discretion. References may be contacted later in the search process.

The University expects full-time faculty to participate in their university workspace or on-campus intellectual and educational community, and generally does not permit remote work arrangements.

Background Checks / Clearances

Employment will require successful completion of background checks in accordance with University policies.

Equal Opportunity

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.