At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as a Graduate Trainee Digital Archivist, preserving digital materials and learning essential curation skills.
- Company: Be part of the prestigious University of Oxford's Bodleian Libraries, renowned for its rich archive collections.
- Benefits: Enjoy on-the-job training, funded postgraduate study, and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: This role offers a unique chance to blend technology with history while making a real impact.
- Qualifications: A passion for culture and history is key; no prior experience in archives is required.
- Other info: This full-time, fixed-term role lasts 2 years, starting by 4 Sep 2023, with dedicated study time.
The predicted salary is between 18160 - 22000 £ per year.
The Bodleian Libraries is looking for Digital Archivists of the future. Our Graduate Trainee Digital Archivist Scheme could be your first step towards a career in 20th and 21st century archives. Preserving the past for the benefit of the future is not just about manuscripts and printed materials; digital materials are surprisingly fragile and also need to be preserved.
This scheme combines on-the-job training and funded postgraduate study. You will learn traditional and digital curation skills, applying these to the Libraries’ internationally important archive collections. You will be involved in processing digital materials, including archiving websites, but will also have the opportunity to work with the archives of individuals and organisations. You will learn everything from editing XML metadata to assessing legal risks to using digital curation tools. You will also work towards a postgraduate qualification in Digital Information and Media Management from Aberystwyth University.
If you are flexible, have a good grasp of digital technologies, excellent research skills, and a passion for problem-solving then this might be the career for you. You do not need experience in archives but you must have a keen interest in culture and history. You will have great communication skills, initiative, and a willingness to work closely in a team.
Applications are welcome from graduates of any discipline relevant to the Libraries' 20th and 21st century archive and manuscript holdings, but are particularly encouraged from candidates with a STEM or Social Sciences background.
This is a training role and is offered on a full-time, fixed-term basis for 2 years beginning by 4 Sep 2023. One afternoon per week will be released for study, and you will be expected to attend two short study schools run by Aberystwyth University.
Please do not apply if you already have, or are currently doing, an undergraduate or postgraduate degree related to Archives Administration / Information Management / Librarianship / Museum Studies, or if you have already completed a traineeship in Archives / Heritage / Libraries, or have substantial work experience in these areas.
Vacancy for Graduate Trainee Digital Archivist at University of Oxford employer: Digital Preservation Coalition
Contact Detail:
Digital Preservation Coalition Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Vacancy for Graduate Trainee Digital Archivist at University of Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with digital curation tools and practices. Understanding how to manage and preserve digital materials will give you a significant edge in your application, as this role heavily focuses on these skills.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with current trends in digital archiving and preservation. Follow relevant blogs, podcasts, or social media accounts to stay updated on the latest developments in the field, which can help you during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the archives and digital preservation community. Attend workshops, webinars, or local meetups to connect with people who can provide insights and potentially refer you to opportunities.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your passion for culture and history through personal projects or volunteer work. Showcasing any relevant experience, even if informal, can highlight your commitment and enthusiasm for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Vacancy for Graduate Trainee Digital Archivist at University of Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Graduate Trainee Digital Archivist position. Understand the skills and qualifications required, as well as the responsibilities involved in the role.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experiences and skills that align with the job requirements. Emphasise any coursework, projects, or volunteer work related to digital technologies, research, or cultural history.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for digital archiving and problem-solving. Mention specific examples of your interest in culture and history, and how your background makes you a suitable candidate for this training role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in the field of archiving.
How to prepare for a job interview at Digital Preservation Coalition
✨Show Your Passion for Digital Preservation
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for digital archiving and preservation during the interview. Share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your interest in culture and history, as this role is all about preserving the past for future generations.
✨Demonstrate Your Technical Skills
Since the role involves working with digital technologies, be prepared to discuss your familiarity with digital curation tools and XML metadata. If you have any experience with web archiving or digital content management, make sure to mention it!
✨Highlight Your Research Abilities
The position requires excellent research skills, so come ready to talk about how you've approached research tasks in the past. Provide examples of how you've solved problems or navigated complex information, as this will showcase your analytical thinking.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Communication Skills
This role involves working closely with others, so it's important to demonstrate your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of successful teamwork from your academic or extracurricular activities, and highlight your communication skills to show you're a great fit for the team.