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 consideration, please include a resume and cover letter.
Diversity And Inclusion Statement
Guided by an ethic of Vincentian personalism and professionalism, DePaul compassionately upholds the dignity of all members of its diverse, multi-faith, and inclusive community. We seek to hire collaborative, open-minded, and dedicated professionals who are committed to advancing our university mission to making education accessible to all, with special attention to including underserved and underrepresented communities. Successful candidates thrive in an environment where ideas and perspectives representing a wide variety of cultures, backgrounds and experiences are welcome and supported.
Required Background Check
Employment at DePaul University is contingent on passing a background check. Only final candidates who are extended an offer of employment will undergo a background check.
Mandated Reporting Of Child Abuse & Neglect
Upon accepting an offer of employment with the university, you will also be required to sign an Acknowledgement of Mandated Reporter Status at the time of hire. A mandated reporter is required to make a report to the Illinois DCFS Hotline whenever there is reasonable cause to believe that a child known to them in their professional or official capacity may be abused or neglected. For more information, please visit the following pages:
Illinois Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS)
Illinois Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act
DePaul University is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, genetic information or any other legally protected status, in accordance with applicable federal, state and local EEO laws.
Seniority level
Entry level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Education and Training
Industries
Higher Education
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