Pay is made bi-monthly on the 1st and 16th of the month.
Required Education:
4 Year Degree
Internal Number: 30430
The Alabama Department of Archives and History (ADAH) seeks a motivated, service-oriented Reference Archivist to work in the department’s Archival Reference Section. Responsible for directing researchers to appropriate archival collections at the ADAH, the Archival Reference Section assists a diverse audience consisting of historians, academic researchers, state and local officials, attorneys, genealogists, members of the media, students from the secondary to the college level, and the public.
The Reference Archivist is a frontline, public-facing position that assists researchers via phone, email and in-person visits to the Research Room; inventories and/or indexes existing collections to enhance ease of access; and promotes the ADAH and its programs through presentations, tours, and other outreach activities. This is a full-time position and includes state benefits.
Position Duties:
Staffs the reference desk in the Research Room during open hours, including some Saturdays.
Monitors the Research Room to ensure safety and security of archival collections.
Conducts remote research consultations via phone or email.
Completes genealogical research requests for off-site clients in a timely and accurate manner.
Creates indexes for existing collections to facilitate access.
Follows section policies and procedures to ensure tasks are completed correctly and efficiently.
Works collaboratively with coworkers to ensure that projects proceed according to specified objectives.
Promotes the ADAH and its collections through outreach activities, including facility tours and public lectures.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Knowledge of or experience with conducting reference interviews.
Knowledge of or experience with genealogical and historical research methods.
Knowledge of best practices and standards for handling archival materials.
Knowledge of U.S. history, Alabama history, and state government.
Ability to navigate difficult patron interactions with patience, empathy, and tact.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively, in teams that encompass a broad range of roles and knowledge.
Evidence of commitment to the archival profession by memberships and participation in professional associations.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Computer skills, including knowledge of programs used to process text, create presentations, formulate infographics, and manage database information. Ability to pick up new computer skills quickly.
Ability to lift and carry boxes weighing up to 50 pounds.
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in history, political science, government, or a related field PLUS
Two graduate level courses in archival administration OR
One year’s professional experience in archival or records management work.
A valid driver’s license.
Application Procedures:
Submit a State of Alabama Job Application form and academic transcripts to State Personnel:
Founded in 1901, the Alabama Department of Archives and History (ADAH) is a multi-faceted state history agency. It serves as the official state archives of Alabama, the state’s historical museum, a special collections library, a center for state history education, and the records management agency for state and local governments. The Department also offers professional support services for local history-related organizations across Alabama and directly provides a wide variety of educational, research, and public programs. Now in its second century of service, the ADAH is mindful of its obligation to preserve the records of its past and to serve the information needs of future generations of researchers.