Digital Archives Assistant

University of York; New Brunswick; Hybrid; CAD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established educational institution in New Brunswick is seeking an entry-level Digital Archives Assistant to support the Digital Archives team. The role involves routine administrative and IT processes to facilitate operations at the ADS/HSDS, with opportunities to engage in various projects. Ideal candidates should possess 5 GCSEs, proficiency in digital technologies, and effective communication skills. This fixed-term trainee position promotes career development in the digital preservation sector and offers a flexible working environment.

Benefits

Pension scheme

Employee benefits

Flexible working policy

Qualifications

• General education with GCSEs including Maths and English.
• Ability to work independently and with guidance.
• Working knowledge of digital technologies.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate the smooth running of the ADS/HSDS.
• Support the Digital Archives team with administrative duties.
• Involve in archiving digital outputs of commercial projects.

Skills

Effective use of digital technologies

Microsoft Office proficiency

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Education

5 GCSE passes at Grade 4 (C) or above

Degree in archaeology or relevant subject

Tools

Google applications

Common proprietary software

Open-source software

Job description

Department

The Archaeology Data Service (ADS) is a world-leading digital repository which provides digital data archiving services for UK archaeology. We are a recognised component of UKRI’s research infrastructure and hold the CoreTrustSeal. From 2024 we are also now leading the establishment of the Heritage Science Data Service for the AHRC RICHeS programme. We are based in the University of York but work closely with external partners, both in Higher Education and in the public and commercial archaeological sectors. In addition to our internal bespoke systems that underpin the workflows of our digital preservation activity, the ADS also hosts public-facing services to facilitate the collection of digital material. These include ADS-easy for online deposition of files, and OASIS, a system for the recording of fieldwork events in the UK, hosted on behalf of national heritage agencies. The ADS is located in the medieval King’s Manor building in central York. The successful applicant will be a member of staff at the University of York, including a pension scheme and a wide range of Employee benefits. The ADS also implements a flexible working policy with hybrid working available.

Role

The role of Digital Archives Assistant is an entry-level position to ADS and HSDS to help develop the next generation of skilled digital archivists. The main purpose of the role is to carry out routine, established administrative and IT processes in order to facilitate the smooth running of the ADS/HSDS and support the Digital Archives team. This position is aimed at either someone who is at an early stage of their career. It is envisaged as a fixed term trainee role, normally for 3 years. It is anticipated that the post-holder will spend much of their time focussed on the archiving of the digital outputs of commercial projects, but there will be opportunities to be involved in ADS and HSDS research projects.

Skills, Experience & Qualification needed

You should have:

• a general education to include 5 GCSE passes at Grade 4 (C) or above, including Maths and English, or equivalent educational qualifications.
• the ability to make effective use of digital technologies including Google applications and/or Microsoft Office.
• working knowledge of common proprietary and open-source computer software.
• an ability to work on your own initiative, with appropriate guidance/direction.
• good accuracy and attention to detail and be able to complete tasks to a specified standard.
• the ability to communicate effectively in verbal and written formats.

In addition, a degree level qualification in archaeology or relevant subject AND/OR experience of working in the historic environment or the digital preservation sector are desirable.

Interview date: 25th February 2026

For informal enquiries: please contact Dr Katie Green on [e-mail]