Archivist Supervisor
Title ID: 26141489
Program Overview
The Library & Archives Program is one of six administrative divisions of the Montana Historical Society (MTHS). It manages the most comprehensive collection of published and primary source materials related to the study of Montana and the region. The Program includes the Library, the Archives, and the Photograph Archives. The Archives is charged with identifying, collecting, and preserving non‐public records, manuscripts, and historic documents, and with the statutory responsibility for state and local government records.
Role Summary
The State Archivist, a statutory position appointed by the Montana Historical Society Director and approved by the Board of Trustees, reports to the Library and Archives Manager. The position manages the Archives section, supervising a staff of 5.5 FTE, and oversees evaluation, acquisition, arrangement, description, preservation, and accessibility of Archives collections. The State Archivist also serves on the State Records Committee and State Local Government Committee, providing guidance on records management.
Responsibilities
* Preserve collections such as artifacts, artwork, records, photographs, and other materials using professional preservation methods.
* Organize, identify, catalog, describe, and classify collections to allow easy access to information.
* Research, locate, negotiate, and acquire new materials for permanent collections, exchange, or loan.
* Authenticate and appraise collections for historical significance.
* Create, administer, and maintain cataloging databases, incorporating current advances in electronic information technology.
* Implement policies and procedures for public access to and use of collections.
* Provide reference services, workshops, instructional educational sessions, and assistance for users needing access to collections.
* Research and record the origins and historical significance of collections.
* Create digital reproductions of collections for preservation and/or access.
* Plan and organize exhibitions of collections, including selecting exhibition themes and designs, developing or installing exhibit materials.
* Consult other institutions on conservation and preservation of archival materials.
* Determine priority for archival collection processing based on agency standards, historical significance, and professional standards.
* Establish and administer policies and procedures for public access and use of archival materials, considering their effect on the historical objects.
* Address escalated reference inquiries and complaints.
Knowledge
* Modern archival theory, standards, practices, and their implementation.
* Digitization theories, practices, and standards.
* Preservation theories, practices, and standards.
* Digital preservation software.
* Electronic information management systems (Preservica, ArchivesSpace, SirsiDynix Enterprise, and Workflows).
* Archival description and cataloging standards such as DACS, EAD, and MARC.
* Current conservation practices.
* Management principles and practices.
* Montana and/or western United States history.
Ability
* Effectively communicate simple and complex ideas, orally and in writing.
* Research skills.
* Ability to work successfully with a variety of people.
Education
* Master's degree in history, museum studies, library science, archival studies or related field.
Experience
* Two years of supervisory experience.
* Five years of job‐related work experience.
* Other combinations of education and experience may be substituted.
Minimum Physical/Mental Requirements
* May travel extensively to evaluate potential archival documents, provide educational assistance, and conduct research.
* May require lifting bulky, heavy record containers, up to 35 pounds.
* May require frequent contact with the public.
Hours of Operation
Montana Heritage Center operates seven days a week and is open on all holidays except Thanksgiving and Christmas. Work hours may fall outside a regular Monday‐Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. schedule.
Pay Raise
In accordance with HB 13, this position receives a $1.00 per hour raise beginning July 1, 2026.
Benefits
Health Insurance, Paid Leave & Holidays, Retirement Plan. Telework not eligible.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
The State government does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, childbirth or medical conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, creed, political beliefs or affiliation, veteran status, military service, retaliation, or any other factor not related to merit and qualifications of an employee or applicant.
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