At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the cataloguing and preservation of a significant community archive.
- Company: Brent Council, a vibrant and diverse London borough.
- Benefits: Up to 33 days annual leave, excellent pension, and hybrid working options.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with great career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on community heritage and empower local voices.
- Qualifications: Postgraduate qualification in Archives or equivalent experience required.
The predicted salary is between 37692 - 39276 £ per year.
Salary range: £37,692 - £39,276 (pro-rata) p.a. inc. London weighting
Contract: Secondment/Fixed term (12 months)
Hours of work: 36 hours per week
Location: The Library at Willesden Green and other locations from time to time
Brent Council is seeking a skilled and motivated Project Archivist to lead the cataloguing, preservation, and activation of the Brent Trades Council (BTC) Archive—a major 22 linear-metre collection documenting decades of grassroots organising, activism, and social justice movements in the borough.
Funded through The National Archives’ Archives Revealed programme, this is an exciting opportunity to shape access to an important yet underused collection, widening its reach for researchers, schools, community groups, and the public.
As Project Archivist, you will take the lead in:
- Appraising, arranging, and cataloguing the BTC Archive to professional standards (ISAD(G), NCA rules)
- Repackaging and conserving material to ensure long-term preservation
- Managing a structured volunteer programme, training and supporting volunteers in archival skills
- Enhancing access through Axiell Collections and Preservica, creating high-quality metadata and digital records
- Working with the Heritage Team to develop outreach, events, and engagement activity
- Contributing to exhibitions, learning projects, and wider cultural and legacy activity within Brent
The Person
We’re looking for someone who is passionate about archives as tools for learning, community empowerment, and inclusive heritage.
Essential skills and experience:
- A recognised postgraduate qualification in Archives & Records Management, or equivalent experience
- Experience cataloguing archival collections to professional standards
- Knowledge of archival standards, preservation, and cataloguing techniques
- Experience supervising volunteers or trainees
- Confidence working with digital cataloguing or digital preservation systems
- Strong organisational and communication skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively
Desirable:
- Familiarity with labour history, trade union archives, or activism collections
- Experience contributing to exhibitions, public programmes, or community history projects
Why join us? We know people achieve their best when they feel valued. At Brent, you’ll benefit from:
- Up to 33 days annual leave (depending on length of service) plus bank holidays
- Excellent pension with generous employer contributions (LGPS)
- Hybrid and flexible working options available for most roles
- Supportive family-friendly policies for parents, guardians, and carers
- Health and wellbeing support, including access to eye test support and a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
- Financial support such as education sessions, childcare deposit loans, and season ticket loans
- Travel perks including affordable parking nearby, a Cycle to Work scheme, and great onsite facilities
- Learning and development opportunities to help you grow your career
- Access to My Brent Rewards with exclusive discounts on shopping, travel, leisure, and entertainment
Closing date: Wednesday 5 August 2026 (23:59)
Brent Council values the diversity of its community and aims to have a workforce that reflects this and therefore encourages applications from all sections of the community. We positively encourage all applicants to self-identify their characteristics in the diversity survey section in the application.
We are committed to safer recruitment and safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants should be aware that posts working with children, young people and vulnerable adults are subject to an Enhanced DBS check as well as other employment clearances.
Brent has a positive approach to flexible working.
As a disability confident employer, Brent welcomes applications from people with all disabilities, including “non-visible” disabilities and mental health conditions. We will interview any disabled applicant who meets the essential criteria. If you require reasonable adjustments to be made to any part of the recruitment process due to your disability, please contact us on recruitment@brent.gov.uk.
Project Archivist employer: Borough of Brent
The Borough of Brent is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where employees can thrive in their political careers. With a strong emphasis on flexibility and work-life balance, the role of Policy & Communications Assistant provides generous annual leave and opportunities for professional growth within a supportive team dedicated to making a positive impact in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Archivist
✨Get Involved in Local Volunteering
Dive into some local volunteering opportunities! Nonprofits often look for temp workers who have a connection to the community they serve. By getting involved, you not only gain experience but also make valuable contacts in the sector.
✨Tap into Nonprofit Networks
Use platforms like Idealist or local nonprofit job boards to find temporary gigs. These spaces are buzzing with opportunities specifically tailored for social impact projects, making it easier for us to spot the ideal role at companies like Borough of Brent!
✨Attend Sector-Specific Events
Join meetings, workshops, or talks hosted by organisations in the nonprofit realm. These events are perfect for making connections and learning about temporary roles that might not be widely advertised. Plus, you can showcase your passion for social impact right there!
✨Don’t Forget Online Applications!
When you spot a temporary role at Borough of Brent that piques your interest, go ahead and apply through their website! Tailor your message to highlight how your skills align with their mission – it shows you care about the cause, which is key in this field.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Archivist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Impact:In the world of nonprofits, it's all about the passion and commitment to making a difference. Make sure your cover letter speaks genuinely about why you're excited about this role at Borough of Brent. Share any experiences you've had with social impact projects or volunteering — it shows you live and breathe the cause!
Highlight Relevant Experience and Skills:For a temporary position in the nonprofit sector, focus on showcasing any specific skills or experience related to project management, community engagement, or fundraising. List any relevant work or volunteer roles on your CV, and consider including quantifiable achievements that demonstrate your impact in previous positions.
References from the Sector:Including references from previous roles in the nonprofit world can really bolster your application. If you've worked on similar social-impact projects before, ask those colleagues or supervisors if they'd be willing to vouch for your skills. This adds credibility and shows you're trusted in the sector, which can be a big plus for Borough of Brent.
Be Ready for a Quick Turnaround:Since this role is temporary, let your interest shine through in your application! Mention in your cover letter your availability to start immediately or at short notice. It shows you're keen and ready to dive right into the exciting work at Borough of Brent!
How to prepare for a job interview at Borough of Brent
✨Show Your Passion for the Cause
When interviewing for a role in the non-profit sector, especially for a temporary position, it's crucial to convey your genuine passion for social impact. Discuss why the mission of Borough of Brent resonates with you and share personal experiences that reflect your commitment to similar causes.
✨Demonstrate Your Flexibility and Adaptability
Non-profit projects often require quick pivots and resourcefulness. Be ready to share examples from your past where you've adapted to changing circumstances or tackled unexpected challenges. This will show your potential as a valuable, nimble team member for the Project Archivist position.
✨Know Your Community Tools
Familiarise yourself with any tools or platforms that are widely used in the non-profit sector like project management software or stakeholder engagement tools. Show your readiness to hit the ground running in your temporary role by discussing any experience you have with these or similar platforms.
✨Be Prepared for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to field scenario-based questions during your interview to assess your problem-solving skills in real-world situations. Think about how you would handle challenges typical of the non-profit sector, such as engaging with diverse stakeholders or managing project timelines effectively.
