Processing Archivist I (Renewal Contract)
Walter P. Reuther Library, Wayne State University

Location: Detroit, Michigan, US
Compensation: $52,000 - $58,000 US

The Walter P. Reuther Library, Archives of Labor and Urban Affairs is the largest labor archives in North America and is home to the collections of numerous unions and labor-related organizations, as well as those documenting the political and community life of urban and metropolitan Detroit, the civil rights movement in Michigan and nationally, and women's struggles in the workplace. The Reuther Library is home to the Wayne State University Archives, established by the Board of Governors in 1958 in recognition of the importance and permanent value of the University's official files, records, and documents.

Wayne State University is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit where students from all backgrounds are offered an enriching, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity, and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities preparing students for success in a diverse, global society. WSU encourages applications from women, people of color, and other underrepresented people. Wayne State is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.

Description and Duties   

• Arrange and rehouse mixed-material and born-digital collections, assess for sensitive materials and preservation needs, and create descriptive finding aids using ArchivesSpace in accordance with DACS and other accepted archival standards.
• Perform basic preservation work such as fastener removal, unfolding and flattening materials, and rehousing in acid-free folders and boxes.
• Work with the Labor and Urban Affairs Collections (LUAC) Archivist on shared backlog.
• Promote collections through blog posts and subject guides.
• Participate in Reading Room and reference services.
• Participate in the shared decision-making for library planning, resource management, and program and policy development.
• Represent the library through active participation in professional associations and University committees.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Director.

Qualifications:

• Master's degree from an accredited institution in library/information science, archival administration, or a related field, with graduate study in archival theory and methods.
• Experience arranging and describing archival collections.
• Fundamental understanding of DACS, EAD, and other relevant description standards.
• Experience using archival collection management software or digital preservation systems such as ArchivesSpace or Archivematica.
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, written, and oral communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and tasks.
• Ability to work effectively and collaboratively in both independent and team-based environments.
• Demonstrated initiative, ability to self-direct, and a commitment to innovation, creativity, and excellence.
• Commitment to fostering an equitable and inclusive workplace, and an ability to work effectively with a diverse faculty, staff, and student population.
• Ability to meet expectations for promotion as part of the Reuther Library academic staff.
• Ability to lift 40 lbs.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience processing large collections (50 linear feet+).
• Demonstrated commitment to advancing professional knowledge through formal training, continuing education, or professional certification.