FWS Archives Page (Student Assistant)

The New School; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 19,320 - 27,517; Part time

Job summary

The New School is seeking 7-12 students for the role of Archives Page at their Archives and Special Collections. This on-campus position begins in September 2026 and offers flexible scheduling of 4-8 hours weekly between Monday and Friday. The ideal candidates should have strong communication skills and demonstrate reliability and professionalism.

The role includes handling archival materials, assisting researchers, and enforcing Research Room policies. The hourly rate is $17.

Qualifications

• Matriculated students with Federal Work Study awards who can maintain a consistent schedule for the entire semester.
• Strong communication skills and ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Demonstrated reliability, professionalism, and punctuality.

Responsibilities

• Locate, retrieve, and prepare archival materials requested by patrons.
• Open and close the Research Room on weekdays.
• Assist researchers with basic computer and audiovisual equipment usage.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Customer service skills

Ability to follow instructions

Reliability and punctuality

Education

Matriculated students with Federal Work Study awards

Tools

Microsoft Office

Google Suite

Job description

Overview

The New School Archives and Special Collections— a unit of the New School Libraries, Collections and Academic Services (LCAS)—seeks 7-12 students with Federal Work Study awards to serve as Archives Pages. The position is on campus, beginning in September 2026. Students will establish a regular schedule of 4-8 hours per week between Monday and Friday, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with the expectation of remaining in the role for the entire semester and, preferably, for the academic year.

Responsibilities

• Locate, retrieve, and prepare archival materials requested by patrons
• Shelve materials after staff use, research appointments, and class visits
• Open and close the Research Room on weekdays and proctor research appointments
• Communicate and enforce Research Room policies and procedures to users in a courteous manner
• Engage directly with archives visitors by answering in‑person inquiries and referring visitors to the appropriate place or person for assistance
• Assist researchers with basic computer, internet, and audio/visual equipment usage during appointments when necessary

Minimum Qualifications

• Matriculated students with Federal Work Study awards who can maintain a consistent schedule for the entire semester
• Strong communication skills and ability to follow oral and written instructions in a fast‑paced environment
• Demonstrated reliability, professionalism, and punctuality
• Superior English written and oral communication skills
• Ability to accurately follow precise written and oral instructions
• Facility to work independently, with minimal supervision
• Physical ability and willingness to lift boxes up to 50 lbs, push loaded book carts, and sit at a desk for extended periods

Preferred Qualifications

• Excellent customer service skills and the ability to interact with visitors internal and external to the university
• Basic computer and technology skills such as Microsoft Office and Google Suite applications
• Familiarity with Google Suite (Calendar, Gmail, Docs, Sheets, etc.) and Microsoft Office

Hourly Rate

$17 per hour

Work Mode

On‑Campus: Employees are expected to work on campus during regularly scheduled work hours; remote work is not feasible.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, creed, religion or belief, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, marital or domestic partnership status, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity or expression, age, disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. The New School recognizes and values the benefits of a diverse workforce.

Application Instructions

Applicants must submit a resume and a letter of interest. The letter should demonstrate the ability to write professionally and concisely.