Reed College
Reed College

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Digital Archives Specialist

Library


This position builds and maintains digital collections of rare and unique materials, both digitized and born digital, for Special Collections and Archives. This position performs high-quality digitization according to accessibility and preservation standards, applies descriptive metadata, and uploads digital materials to discovery platforms. Collections include archival records and other materials comprising the historical and cultural record of Reed College, including theses, rare books, artists' books, early writing and printing, maps, photographs, and manuscripts. The Library Specialist works closely with other staff in the library and the college to implement best practices, develop workflows, and enable discovery and use of digital collections. This position reports to the Director of Special Collection and Archives. This is an on campus position.

Reed College offers an exceptional benefits package, including comprehensive medical and dental insurance options for you and your dependents, 403(b) retirement plan with 10% employer contribution (after one year of service), educational assistance for employees and their children, 22 days of paid vacation, paid holidays, half-day Fridays in the summer, and many other campus amenities. This is a full-time  role with typical work hours of 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with a one hour unpaid lunch. 

The starting salary for this position is $25/hour-$30/hour. Pay offers are contingent upon experience and are determined through an internal pay assessment. This is an overtime eligible position in grade 5.

Who You Are

  • You are enthusiastic about engaging with history, archives, and cultural heritage materials in an academic environment.
  • You are proficient with data management tools, i.e excel and google sheets
  • You are able to work effectively both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
  • You are curious, adaptable, and eager to learn new skills and concepts.
  • You are a resourceful problem solver who can identify challenges and develop effective solutions.
  • You are highly detail-oriented and committed to accuracy and quality in your work.
  • You are comfortable working with students, faculty, and staff, providing prompt, professional, and consistent service.
  • You are willing and able to learn new systems, technologies, and digital platforms.
  • You are skilled at managing multiple priorities, organizing your time effectively, and meeting deadlines.
  • You are capable of leading and contributing to multiple projects simultaneously.
  • You possess strong writing, communication, and research skills.
  • You may be familiar with digitization workflows, archival description, and metadata best practices.
  • You may have experience working in special collections, archives, or related cultural heritage settings.

What You’ll Do

  • Create and edit records in various content management systems, including ArchivesSpace, Reed Digital Collections (RDC), and spreadsheet programs like Excel or Google Sheets.
  • Perform quality control and manage configurations for Archive-IT web crawls.
  • Create, apply, and maintain archival metadata relating to digital items, adhering to best practices and standards.
  • Digitize tangible materials according to appropriate archival and preservation standards.
  • Upload digital materials to discovery platforms.
  • Develop best practices and solutions for digital collections.
  • Create digital collections and exhibits that support the use of collections and primary sources
  • materials by students, faculty, and staff, as well as members of the public.
  • Participate in professional activities within the library, the college, and professional organizations.
  • Research and document preservation standards for Reed Special Collections and Archives.
  • Supervise student employees as needed.
  • Organize and plan digital collection projects.

Minimum Qualifications

  • 1 year of experience in libraries or archives

Application Instructions

Click below to apply. You will be directed to Interfolio to create a free account and begin your application. A resume and cover letter are required. In the cover letter please be sure to answer this question:  What intrigues you about the prospect of working in academic Archives?

Applications will be considered as they are submitted so you are encouraged to apply early. 

Reed College replies to every candidate. We will confirm that your application is received, and if you are not selected, we will let you know as soon as possible.

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Background Check Requirement

A criminal conviction record check is required for all college staff positions as a condition of employment for selected candidates. Employment offers are contingent upon the successful completion of this background check. A conviction does not automatically disqualify a candidate; each case is reviewed based on the nature of the conviction and its relevance to the responsibilities of the position.