Assistant Archivist

Reporting to the Archivist, the Assistant Archivist is responsible for facilitating reference and research services to internal and external users, as well as servicing some internal requests for archival research. This position also conducts normal collection processing activities including archival appraisal, basic conservation, and arrangement and creating detailed electronic finding aids in EAD. The Assistant Archivist also contributes to the development of archival programs and publications in support of library outreach activities.

Duties and responsibilities:

• Appraise, arrange, process, apply basic conservation measures and provide intellectual access to large and small collections.
• Add accruals to existing collections; evaluate and reorganize existing collections to better facilitate access accordingly.
• Review and update existing EAD finding aids and encode new finding aids in EAD.
• Assist in the establishment, organization, creation, and application of metadata for new and existing collections.
• Assist patrons and researchers in navigating collections on-site and online; respond to telephone, email, Art Institute staff and faculty, and walk-in research inquiries; supervise researchers using archival materials. Fulfill image and photocopy requests; monitor and manage copyright issues associated with research requests; produce and manage rights and reproduction fees and contracts.
• Maintain and update OPAC MARC records for all Ryerson and Burnham Archives collections; create new item records in OPAC as needed.
• Maintain and update existing Archives webpages.
• Assist in appraisal of potential new acquisitions.
• Digitize collection items when appropriate and develop content for online exhibits, publications, and other uses as required.
• Monitor and analyze current trends and practices and actively participate in the profession.
• Assist the Archivist as needed.

• Graduate degree in Library and Information Science or related field from ALA accredited institution required. Must include minimum of 6 semester credits in formal academic training in archival practice. Must demonstrate proficiency in archival procedures and understanding of archival principals.
• Accuracy, neatness, reliability, and attention to detail are essential. Must show history of ability to initiate and conclude projects and to work independently.
• Demonstrated commitment to providing excellent public services in an archival environment within the museum library setting.
• Experience cataloging in MARC and creating and/or editing finding aids in native EAD (XML) is required.
• Knowledge of DACS and Dublin Core is required.
• Working knowledge of CONTENTdm, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Bridge, HTML, CSS and Drupal is preferred. Knowledge of museum operations and/or Chicago and Midwest history, art, design, architecture is preferred.
• Able to lift 40 pounds.
• Strong written, oral, and interpersonal skills. Capacity for analytical, detailed work.

The Art Institute of Chicago is an equal opportunity, equal access employer fully committed to achieving a diverse and inclusive workplace.