Archives Assistant

Australian Museum; Sydney; On-site; AUD 35,000 - 38,000; Part time

Job summary

The Australian Museum in Sydney seeks an Archives Assistant to support accessibility of archival collections as part of a project. You will retrieve, document, organise and digitise materials, maintain records, and assist visitors and researchers, contributing to public programs connecting audiences with the collection.

Part-time role (14 hours/week) with pro-rated salary and superannuation. Applicants must have working rights in Australia and relevant archival qualifications or experience.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of archival principles and practices.
• Experience handling historical records securely and methodically.
• Experience with archival, records or information management systems.
• Strong organisational and communication skills with attention to accuracy.

Responsibilities

• Retrieve, document, organise and digitise archival materials.
• Provide frontline assistance to visitors and researchers.
• Respond to archival enquiries and support public programs and events.

Skills

Knowledge of archival principles

Handling historical records

Information management systems

Organisational and communication

Archives qualification

Education

Tertiary qualification in archives or related field

Tools

Archival data management systems

Enquiry management systems

Job description

$34880 - $38193 p.a. + Pro-Rated, Superannuation (

Archives Assistant

Join us at the Australian Museum and help us to achieve our Mission to ignite wonder, inspire debate and drive change.

Job Closing date: Wednesday, 11 November 2026

About the Role

The Australian Museum is seeking a detail-oriented and enthusiastic Archives Assistant to support the accessibility of its archival collections as part of a project. This role plays an important part in preserving the Museum's rich history and ensuring that archival records are accessible to staff, researchers and the wider public. The role holder will assist with retrieving, documenting, organising and digitising archival materials, while maintaining accurate records and supporting best-practice collection care. The position also provides frontline assistance to visitors and researchers, responds to archival enquiries and contributes to public programs and events that connect audiences with the Museum's collections.

Employment Status:

• Part-time, 14 hours per week

You will be paid a competitive total remuneration package of $39,588 - $43,349 pro-rated, including an annual salary of $34,880- $38,193 pro-rated, plus employer's contribution to superannuation (currently 12%) and annual leave loading.

About you

The ideal candidate will be an organised, enthusiastic and detail-oriented individual with an interest in historical collections and a passion for making information accessible to others. A careful and methodical approach to handling records, maintaining accurate documentation and managing competing priorities will be essential to success in this varied role. With strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset, the successful candidate will enjoy engaging with colleagues, researchers and members of the public. Confidence using digital systems, a commitment to providing excellent customer service and a willingness to develop knowledge of archival practices will be highly valued. To be eligible for this role at the Australian Museum, you must hold full working rights in Australia and meet all essential requirements listed in the position description.

Knowledge and Experience

• Knowledge of archival principles and practices, including the arrangement and description of records.
• Experience in handling and retrieving historical records in a secure and structured environment.
• Experience with archival, records, information management and / or enquiry management systems.
• Strong organisational and communication skills with attention to accuracy and detail.
• Tertiary qualifications in archives, records, information management, museum studies, history or related field, and/or demonstrated equivalent experience.

About the Australian Museum

The Australian Museum is truly a great place to work. We aim to be a leading voice for the richness of life, the Earth and culture in Australia and the Pacific. We commit to transform the conversation around climate change, the environment and wildlife conservation; be a strong advocate for First Nations' culture; and continue to develop world-leading science, collections, exhibitions and education programs. The Australian Museum acknowledges that we operate on the lands, waters and skies of many First Nations Peoples. As Australia's first museum, we share the responsibility of advocating for Country and honouring First Nations Peoples and knowledges. Check out our current exhibitions and events here

Benefits

Besides working together with other like-minded people, you will have access to professional development opportunities and dedicated Wellbeing programs.

Inclusive and Welcoming

The Australian Museum is committed to building a workforce that reflects the rich diversity of the communities we serve. We actively encourage applications from First Nations, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples; people with disability, including physical, sensory, cognitive, intellectual, neurological, psychosocial, and chronic health conditions, whether visible or hidden; people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds; people of all ages; members of the LGBTQIA+ community; and people from all socioeconomic backgrounds. If you require adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact the hiring manager or include your requirements in your application. This may include alternative formats, communication support, flexible interviews, accessible locations, or extra assessment time. Any information you share will be kept confidential.

Contact person:

Vanessa Finney, Head of Archives & Library, @Australian.Museum