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- Tasks: Manage and preserve a significant architectural archive while supporting research and exhibitions.
- Company: Join the creative team at Foster + Partners, a leader in architectural innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, pension, annual bonus, and more perks!
- Why this job: Make a real impact by preserving architectural heritage and collaborating with creative minds.
- Qualifications: Experience in archives or museums, strong organisational skills, and a passion for architectural conservation.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Join Our Team as a Special Collections Archivist at Foster + Partners
About the Role
We are looking for a Special Collections Archivist to join our Publications and Research team on a 12-month fixed-term maternity cover. This role plays a key part in caring for, managing, and making accessible one of the world's most significant architectural archives, supporting research, exhibitions, and projects across the practice.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the day-to-day management of the Special Collections Archive and archivists
- Preserve and care for the practice's heritage collections to the highest professional standards
- Respond to internal and external requests for archive materials
- Maintain and update records across Pavilion, Deepstore, and model collections using Museum Index / Collections Online
- Support exhibition programmes and practice-wide projects requiring archive input
- Assist with audits, conservation, and optimal storage of archival and model collections
- Accurately catalogue and manage drawings, photographs, slides, models, and other archival materials
- Collaborate with archivists, researchers, librarians, designers, facilities, and warehouse teams
Qualifications
- Professional experience working in archives, museums, or special collections
- Knowledge of collections management systems (SPECTRUM-compliant systems preferred)
- Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
- An interest in architectural heritage and conservation
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills
- A flexible, proactive approach to working in a fast-paced environment
Join a collaborative, creative practice where you'll help preserve and share an internationally renowned architectural legacy.
Benefits
Benefits include 25 days holiday, pension, annual bonus and much more!
Special Collections Archivist in London employer: Foster + Partners
Contact Detail:
Foster + Partners Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Special Collections Archivist in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the field of archives and special collections. Attend events, join online forums, and connect with people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for architectural heritage! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your enthusiasm for preserving history and how it aligns with their mission. It’s all about making that personal connection.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its collections. Familiarise yourself with their projects and think about how your skills can contribute. This will help you stand out and show that you’re genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly shows your commitment. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate and keeps everything in one place.
We think you need these skills to ace Special Collections Archivist in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Special Collections Archivist role. Highlight your professional experience in archives, museums, or special collections, and don’t forget to mention any knowledge of collections management systems!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for architectural heritage and conservation. Share specific examples of how you've managed collections or supported projects in the past to show us why you’re the perfect fit.
Show Off Your Organisational Skills: Since this role requires strong organisational skills and attention to detail, make sure to demonstrate these in your application. Whether it’s through your CV layout or examples of past work, let us see how you keep things in order!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates about the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Foster + Partners
✨Know Your Collections
Before the interview, dive deep into the specific collections that Foster + Partners manages. Familiarise yourself with their architectural heritage and any notable projects. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you discuss how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Be ready to talk about your professional experience in archives or museums. Highlight your knowledge of collections management systems, especially if you're familiar with SPECTRUM-compliant systems. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed archival materials or supported exhibition programmes in the past.
✨Demonstrate Collaboration
Since the role involves working with various teams, think of instances where you've collaborated effectively. Share stories that showcase your communication skills and how you’ve worked alongside archivists, researchers, or designers to achieve a common goal.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the team. Inquire about their current projects or challenges they face in managing the archive. This shows your enthusiasm for the position and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
