At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the creation of next-gen digital preservation services for public records.
- Company: The National Archives preserves and provides access to the UK's public records.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hybrid working, discounts, wellbeing resources, and an on-site gym.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on preserving digital history for future generations.
- Qualifications: Confident communicator with a strong focus on digital preservation and user needs.
- Other info: Part-time and flexible working options available; SC-level Security Clearance required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About us: Archives matter. Without records, we could not hold government to account, carry out pioneering research or learn from the past. Whether they are websites, the evidence heard by inquiries or the algorithms which support official decision-making, preserving our digital public records is vital. The National Archives is the archive of UK Government and the courts and one of the world’s leading digital archives. We preserve and provide access to the UK’s public records. Our strategy sets out our ambition to be an inclusive, entrepreneurial and disruptive archive. We have operated as a digital archive for over 20 years. Our technical platform includes innovative new services running alongside systems that are approaching retirement. We are seeking a talented individual to build and strengthen our team and lead the creation of our next generation of digital preservation services.
Responsibilities
About the role: In this role, your work will ensure that today’s digital public records survive for the benefit of future generations of citizens, researchers, policy makers and historians. You will be accountable for our digital preservation service, developing our ability to accept and preserve growing volumes of digital records in increasingly complex formats. You will own and manage our portfolio of digital preservation tools (e.g. DROID, PRONOM, DiAGRAM), many of which are used by other archives and cultural institutions worldwide. One of your first challenges in this role will be to replace our ageing digital preservation system and its supporting infrastructure to improve the performance and capacity of our core digital preservation service and maintain the long-term integrity and security of our digital archive.
About you: You are a confident communicator with a deep understanding of digital preservation. You have a strong focus on delivery and are passionate about creating excellent digital products and services that meet user needs. Your enthusiasm will help you collaborate with, lead and inspire an expert team. You will enjoy challenging, research-led work which grows our capability as a digital archive and makes a positive contribution to the long term preservation of the UK’s digital public records.
Join us here in beautiful Kew, just 10 minutes’ walk from the Overground and Underground stations, and you can expect an excellent range of benefits. They include a pension, flexible hybrid working arrangements, discounts with local businesses (e.g. beauty salons and bars) and wellbeing resources (e.g. on-site therapists). We offer an on-site gym, restaurant, shop and staff bar (all subject to current Covid restrictions). This is a full time post. However, requests for part-time working, flexible working and job share will be considered, taking into account at all times the operational needs of the Department. A combination of onsite and home working is available and applicants should be able to regularly travel to our Kew site.
SC-level Security Clearance or willingness to obtain SC clearance is mandatory for this role and requires that you have lived in the UK for the last 3 years. The length of required residency may depend on individual circumstances. We are an equal opportunities employer welcoming applications from all sections of the community and from people of diverse ages, experience and backgrounds, including people with disabilities. We are keen to explore the widest possible pool of talent for all our roles.
Vacancy for Service Owner: Digital Preservation at The National Archives employer: Digital Preservation Coalition
Contact Detail:
Digital Preservation Coalition Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Vacancy for Service Owner: Digital Preservation at The National Archives
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in digital preservation. Understanding tools like DROID, PRONOM, and DiAGRAM will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the digital preservation community. Attend relevant conferences or webinars to connect with others in the field, which can provide insights and potentially lead to referrals for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills by discussing any past experiences where you've led a team or project. The role requires someone who can inspire and manage a team, so be ready to share specific examples.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss how you would approach replacing an ageing digital preservation system. Having a clear strategy or ideas on improving performance and capacity will set you apart as a candidate who is proactive and solution-oriented.
We think you need these skills to ace Vacancy for Service Owner: Digital Preservation at The National Archives
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and requirements of the Service Owner: Digital Preservation position. Highlight key skills and experiences that align with the role.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your experience in digital preservation and related fields. Emphasise relevant projects, tools you've used (like DROID or PRONOM), and any leadership roles you've held.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for digital preservation and your understanding of its importance. Mention specific examples of how you have contributed to similar projects or initiatives in the past.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. Ensure that your writing is clear and professional, as this reflects your attention to detail.
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 preservation during the interview. Share specific examples of projects or experiences that highlight your commitment to preserving digital records and how they can benefit future generations.
✨Demonstrate Technical Knowledge
Familiarise yourself with the digital preservation tools mentioned in the job description, such as DROID, PRONOM, and DiAGRAM. Be prepared to discuss how you have used similar tools in the past or how you would approach implementing new systems.
✨Highlight Leadership and Collaboration Skills
As a Service Owner, you'll need to lead and inspire a team. Prepare to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others to achieve common goals in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Questions on User Needs
Since the role focuses on creating excellent digital products and services, be ready to talk about how you identify and meet user needs. Think of instances where you gathered user feedback and made improvements based on that input.