Archivist

Archivist

London Full-Time 30000 - 42000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join a dynamic team to catalogue and manage diverse collections, both digital and analogue.
  • Company: Wellcome Collection is a leading institution focused on health and well-being through collections and research.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a full-time role with opportunities for professional development and a collaborative work environment.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact by enhancing access to valuable collections while working in a creative, inclusive culture.
  • Qualifications: Experience with archival systems and knowledge of UK data protection laws are essential.
  • Other info: This is a permanent position based in London, perfect for those passionate about archives and collections.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.

We are looking for an Archivist to join our team of Archivists, Librarians and Collections Information Officers on a full-time, permanent basis.

Where in Wellcome will I be working?

You will be working as part of the Collections Information team which is part of the Collections & Digital department at Wellcome Collection, reporting to the Collections Information Lead (Cataloguing). The Collections Information team creates and maintains a diverse range of descriptive, bibliographic and management information about Wellcome’s collections. We want to maximise access and use of our collections by taking an audience-focused approach whenever we create collections information.

What will I be doing?

  • Joining a multidisciplinary team that undertakes a mix of cataloguing, inventory, sensitivity review and metadata enhancement, working in partnership to ensure that access to the collections is always lawful, ethical, and responsible.
  • Appraising, sorting, arranging and cataloguing across a wide range of collections, both analogue and digital, with a focus on our archive and manuscript collections.
  • Contributing to the development and documentation of collections information procedural guidelines.
  • Contributing, developing and testing potential new approaches to cataloguing, metadata and catalogue record enhancements to improve accuracy, consistency, interoperability or accessibility of our collections information.
  • Handling personal and other sensitive data in accordance with UK Data Protection legislation and Wellcome Collection policy and procedures, carrying out reviews of collections material as required.
  • Engaging with colleagues and external audiences to raise awareness of collections and professional practice.

We are looking for somebody who has:

  • Solid experience of archival collections management systems, particularly cataloguing and accessions-related functions.
  • Ability to work flexibly across a wide range of formats and media, such as printed and visual resources, born digital materials, and moving image & sound.
  • Experience of appraisal, sorting, arrangement and description of large archive collections.
  • Knowledge and experience of widely-used archival descriptive standards and schema, including ISAD(G), ISAAR, and the use of authority files and subject indexes (e.g. LCSH, MeSH).
  • Working knowledge of UK legislative frameworks relating to collections information and access (including Data Protection and Copyright).
  • A clear focus on solutions and outcomes, and a willingness to experiment with new approaches, particularly around cataloguing, access, and diversity and inclusion.

Archivist employer: Digitalassetmanagementnews

Wellcome Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation within the Collections Information team in London. Employees benefit from a commitment to professional development, with opportunities to engage in diverse projects that enhance access to valuable collections while adhering to ethical standards. The inclusive environment encourages creativity and experimentation, making it an ideal place for those passionate about archival work and dedicated to making a meaningful impact.
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Contact Detail:

Digitalassetmanagementnews Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Archivist

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the specific archival collections management systems mentioned in the job description. If you have experience with similar systems, be ready to discuss how your skills can transfer to their environment.

✨Tip Number 2

Engage with current trends and best practices in cataloguing and metadata enhancement. Consider attending webinars or workshops that focus on innovative approaches in the field, as this will show your commitment to professional development.

✨Tip Number 3

Network with professionals in the archival community, especially those who work with collections similar to Wellcome's. This could provide insights into their practices and may even lead to a referral or recommendation.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss your understanding of UK Data Protection legislation and how it applies to archival work. Being able to articulate your knowledge in this area will demonstrate your readiness to handle sensitive data responsibly.

We think you need these skills to ace Archivist

Archival Collections Management Systems
Cataloguing Skills
Appraisal and Sorting of Archive Collections
Knowledge of ISAD(G) and ISAAR Standards
Use of Authority Files and Subject Indexes (e.g. LCSH, MeSH)
Understanding of UK Data Protection Legislation
Copyright Knowledge
Metadata Enhancement Techniques
Flexibility Across Various Formats and Media
Attention to Detail
Communication Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Collaboration and Teamwork
Audience-Focused Approach

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Archivist position at Wellcome. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, as this will help you tailor your application effectively.

Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience with archival collections management systems and any specific projects that demonstrate your skills in cataloguing, appraisal, and arrangement of collections. Use concrete examples to showcase your expertise.

Showcase Your Knowledge: Mention your familiarity with archival descriptive standards like ISAD(G) and ISAAR, as well as your understanding of UK legislative frameworks related to collections information. This will show that you are well-versed in the necessary regulations and practices.

Express Your Passion: In your motivation letter, convey your enthusiasm for working with collections and your commitment to ethical and responsible access. Discuss how you plan to engage with colleagues and audiences to raise awareness of collections, which aligns with Wellcome's audience-focused approach.

How to prepare for a job interview at Digitalassetmanagementnews

✨Know Your Archival Standards

Familiarise yourself with widely-used archival descriptive standards such as ISAD(G) and ISAAR. Be prepared to discuss how you have applied these standards in your previous roles, as this will demonstrate your expertise and understanding of the field.

✨Showcase Your Flexibility

Highlight your ability to work across various formats and media. Share specific examples of how you've handled different types of collections, including both analogue and digital materials, to show that you can adapt to the diverse needs of Wellcome's collections.

✨Emphasise Ethical Practices

Discuss your experience with handling sensitive data and your understanding of UK Data Protection legislation. This is crucial for the role, so be ready to explain how you ensure compliance while managing collections information.

✨Engage with Audience-Focused Approaches

Demonstrate your commitment to making collections accessible by sharing ideas or past experiences where you engaged with audiences. This could include outreach initiatives or innovative cataloguing methods that improved user access to collections.

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