Archivist (Hybrid)

Southwestern Law School; California (MO); On-site; USD 75,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Southwestern Law School in California seeks an Archivist to manage and elevate its unique collections, including the Bullocks Wilshire archives. This role involves preserving the rich cultural and legal history of Los Angeles.

Responsibilities include appraising and describing archival collections, conducting research, and creating exhibitions. Candidates should possess an MLS/MLIS degree and experience in an archive, with strong skills in collection management and public engagement.

The salary range for this position is $75,000–$80,000 based on experience.

Qualifications

• MLS/MLIS (or equivalent) from an ALA-accredited program (degree must be completed prior to start).
• At least 2 years of experience in an archive or similar repository.
• Strong skills in collection management, metadata, and description standards.

Responsibilities

• Appraising, arranging, and describing archival collections of all media types.
• Conducting historical research to ensure accuracy and context.
• Leading archival digitization and metadata projects.
• Creating rotating and permanent exhibits that bring the archives to life.
• Publishing national-standard finding aids and MARC records.

Skills

Collection management

Metadata

Public engagement

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

MLS/MLIS or equivalent

Job description

Southwestern Law School Archivist – Where Law, History, and Art Deco Meet

Are you passionate about archives and fascinated by stories that live in buildings, fashion, and history? Southwestern Law School is seeking an engaged, service-oriented, and collaborative Archivist to steward and elevate our one‑of‑a‑kind collections, including the iconic Bullocks Wilshire archives.

This opportunity offers more than a traditional archivist role – it’s an opportunity to preserve the rich legal and cultural history of Los Angeles while contributing to a nationally recognized academic institution. The Archivist will curate collections that span law, architecture, education, fashion, and the golden era of Hollywood, all housed within one of L.A.’s most beloved Art Deco landmarks.

The Archivist will lead in managing, organizing, and promoting archival materials in all formats, ensuring these treasures are preserved, discoverable, and shared with the community.

Collections of Note

• Southwestern Law School’s 114‑year legacy – from its early days as an inclusive evening college to its place as one of California’s oldest law schools.
• The Bullocks Wilshire Building – a preserved Art Deco masterpiece turned law school.
• The Bullocks Wilshire Department Store – a cultural time capsule of L.A., Hollywood glamour, and 20th‑century fashion, with over 400 vintage artifacts in the collection.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Appraising, arranging, and describing archival collections of all media types
• Conducting historical research to ensure accuracy and context
• Leading archival digitization and metadata projects
• Creating rotating and permanent exhibits that bring the archives to life
• Publishing national‑standard finding aids and MARC records
• Enhancing public access to the archives through collaboration and innovation
• Planning tours, talks, and special events that highlight the archives
• Collaborating with departments such as Institutional Advancement and Marketing
• Writing grants to support special archive projects
• Leading tours of our historic Bullocks Wilshire building

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• MLS/MLIS (or equivalent) from an ALA‑accredited program (degree must be completed prior to start)
• At least 2 years of experience in an archive or similar repository
• Strong skills in collection management, metadata, and description standards
• A passion for public engagement, including dynamic speaking and tour docent abilities
• A collaborative mindset and the ability to work both independently and in teams
• Flexibility for occasional nights/weekends for special events
• Exceptional organization and communication skills

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Supervisory experience
• Legal education or professional experience
• Interest or background in historic preservation, 20th‑century American architecture, or Art Deco history
• Experience with event planning, particularly exhibitions, receptions, or educational programming

Salary: $75,000–$80,000, depending on experience.

Southwestern Law School prohibits discrimination and harassment on the basis of race (including hairstyle and hair texture), ethnicity, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, sex, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, marital status, age (40 and over), disability (mental and physical), medical condition, citizenship status, military service, veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by law in matters of admissions, employment, housing, or services, or in the educational programs or activities Southwestern operates. Please direct all inquiries regarding Southwestern’s nondiscrimination policies to: General Counsel, 3050 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90010, (213) 738–6626.