Digital Archivist - DePaul University

In collaboration with colleagues in the DePaul University Special Collections and Archives (SPCA), the Digital Archivist will oversee the acquisition, description, access, and preservation of digital records as part of a digital preservation program that anticipates the needs of a community-centered, teaching-focused academic library. The Digital Archivist will have an interest in DePaul’s archival collections and topical strengths and will leverage technology to assist in core archival and teaching functions.

The Digital Archivist will work in a highly-supportive and collegial culture that encourages active participation in meaningful and valuable skills training and professional development. This includes workshops, committee memberships, and engagement in programs that support the Library’s mission and its inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility (IDEA) goals, while building connections and partnerships across DePaul’s wider academic and user community. 

What You'll Do:

Digital Archives Preservation Program 

• Develops and maintains expertise in digital preservation standards and systems (e.g., Preservica) as well as other preservation and access tools 
• Leads efforts to advise on, capture, and preserve websites, social media, email, and legacy media formats included in records transfers or archival donations
• Collaborates with the Library’s Collection and Discovery Services unit on upgrades, system integrations, and documenting application support workflows    

Digital Archives Access and Description 

• Leads discovery and access initiatives for digital materials
• Maintains and revises EAD and DACS implementation guidelines in relation to systems employed by the department and Library
• Develops and maintains expertise in the collections management and intellectual access system (e.g., ArchivesSpace)
• Collaborates with colleagues to process hybrid archival collections and create finding aids, consulting physical collections as needed for context and continuity

Special Projects and Project Management 

• Collaborates with colleagues to identify Special Collections and Archives materials for digital reformatting and exhibits
• Serves as departmental project manager for reformatting, digitization, and digital exhibit projects
• Advises on platforms, file types, and metadata standards for digital projects and exhibits showcasing Special Collections and Archives content

Reference and Instruction 

• Assists in-person and remote researchers by identifying materials of interest and supplying requested information
• Supervises the reading room during regularly scheduled desk shifts and as-needed substitute coverage
• Provides support for the Special Collections and Archives instruction program

Professional Development and Service 

• Maintains an awareness of best practices for digital preservation within academic libraries and archives, through reading in the scholarly and professional literature, participation in relevant conferences, workshops, and professional development programs, and applies lessons learned to current needs in Special Collections and Archives
• Participates and represents the DePaul University Library in University, state, regional, or national professional service activities
• May direct activities of student employees, interns, and volunteers in support of principal duties and responsibilities

 What You'll Need:

• Master's degree from an American Library Association accredited program, or Master’s degree and equivalent combination of coursework and professional experience to meet requirements
• 2 years of experience with digital preservation lifecycle planning and implementation in a library or archives setting
• Demonstrated knowledge of and proficiency with modern archival theory, standards, principles, and practices (appraisal, acquisition, description, access, and preservation) of both physical and digital materials in a library or archives setting
• Demonstrated knowledge of archival content management systems and related tools; digital preservation systems, tools and standards; and emerging trends
• This is an in-person position based at the Richardson Library on the Lincoln Park campus, with the possibility of one (1) remote day per week, as University policies and departmental needs allow
• Occasional evening and weekend hours, and the ability to travel between DePaul University campuses are required
• Requires ability to navigate closed stacks area, and reading, visual acuity, hand-eye coordination and motor skills sufficient to use a computer, copy machine, and other office equipment
• Routinely lifting up to 25 pounds may also be required

Perks:

• Working for a stable and well-known University that values diversity and inclusion.
• Top choice medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Retirement plan matching contribution of 10%.
• Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.
• Generous paid time off, sick time, holidays, floating holidays, and more!
• Full-Time Benefits

For priority consideration, please submit a resume and cover letter HERE by Sunday, July 14th.