Assistant Archivist

The Assistant Archivist reports to the Director of Archives and is primarily responsible for processing materials and making them accessible to staff, researchers, and other stakeholders at the research center. This role requires an individual with a strong understanding of professional archival standards and the ability to work independently while contributing to team efforts. The Assistant Archivist will also assist with various archival and collections management tasks and help implement effective systems to support the foundation’s mission. This is a unique opportunity for an emerging archivist to work with a range of materials within a mission-driven, supportive, arts-focused environment.

The Mike Kelley Foundation for the Arts Archives maintains a collection of original papers and materials related to the artist’s life and work, which includes substantial digital holdings. The Archives also maintains the records of the Mike Kelley Foundation for the Arts. At Mike Kelley Foundation for the Arts, we are a small team that works closely together. No task is too small, as we all understand that all responsibilities get us closer to our mission.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prepare processing work plans and perform hands-on processing for repository collections and series according to their assessed research value.
• Execute approved processing work plans: rehouse materials, assess conservation and preservation needs, arrange and describe materials and catalog resources using ArchivesSpace.
• Safely handle, rehouse, and store archival materials, identifying those that need conservation treatment.
• Support born-digital processing efforts
• Support other areas of archival programs and in-house research as needed, including hands-on research assistance and staff and researcher access to materials.
• Collaborate with the archives team to maintain and update internal processing documentation and ensure consistent handling of materials
• Work with the foundation’s Art Collections team and Executive Director as needed to recommend and prepare periodic archival loans for public exhibitions.
• Implement collection management policies and procedures in accordance with archival best practices.
• Collaborate to refine processing workflow and systems to enhance efficiency and consistency.
• Help ensure the security and environmental monitoring of archival facilities
• Other duties as needed to further the mission of the archive and the Foundation.

QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND SKILLS

• Master of Library and Information Science from an ALA-accredited program required.
• 1-3 years of full-time (or its equivalent) professional experience in archives after graduate school required.
• Demonstrated knowledge of archival theories and practices, especially related to arrangement, description, housing, handling, and preservation
• Experience utilizing information management systems and/or databases management systems such as ArchivesSpace, FileMaker Pro or similar data bases
• Training and/or interest in working with digital archives. Digital Archives Specialist (DAS) certificate holder or similar coursework completed preferred.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills required.
• Ability to simultaneously engage in big-picture thinking and produce detail-oriented work required.
• Ability to self-direct and make evidence and standards-based recommendations required.
• Comfort with both MAC and PC environments plus tools like Adobe Acrobat and Microsoft Excel preferred.
• Background or interest in art history, contemporary art knowledge, and/or familiarity with artistic studio production processes helpful.

SCHEDULE, WORKING CONDITIONS, AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Position works at our Highland Park, Los Angeles location during standard business hours, Monday to Friday, 9 am – 5 pm, and may require travel to storage facilities.
• Work is primarily performed at a workstation in an office environment and in our archives storage facility. Periodic work at a second storage facility in Azusa is required.
• Periodically requires lifting, moving 25–40 lb. boxes, and using a stepstool or ladder.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and ability to drive
• This position will require a background check

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

This is a 3-year full-time position with the potential to extend at the conclusion of the term. Salary range: $65,000- $78,000 commensurate with experience, skills and fit.

Competitive benefit package includes:

• Paid vacation (10 days per year accrued)
• Paid holidays (11)
• Paid winter break (up to 5 days annually)
• Paid sick/safe time (10 days per year accrued)
• Medical insurance with optional vision and dental plans available
• Eligibility for 401k after 6 months with annual employer contribution and match
• Potential for Professional Development
• Optional Flexible Spending Account
• Paid lunch hour

APPLICATION PROCESS

We seek to hire an Assistant Archivist as soon as possible to support the continued growth of our archives program. Applicants are encouraged to apply early.

We are passionate about creating an inclusive workplace that promotes and values diversity. Everyone is welcome, and our employees are comfortable bringing their authentic selves to work. We believe that diversity drives innovation and allows employees to do their best work.

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, a sample of professional writing or other descriptive product that you created, and a list of references detailing relevant experience noting Assistant Archivist in the subject line to jobs@mikekelleyfoundation.org.

Please note that no telephone calls are accepted. All inquiries, including any accommodation requirements, should be sent to jobs@mikekelleyfoundation.org.

In California, the relationship of employer and employee is generally “at will.” This means that, without an employment contract, the employer or the employee can terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause.

It is the policy of Mike Kelley Foundation for the Arts to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.