Lead Archivist, Collections & Client Services

Heritage Werks, Inc.; Duluth (MN); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) with company contribution

Paid time off

Job summary

Heritage Werks in Duluth, MN seeks a Lead Archivist, Collections & Client Services to oversee archival projects and act as the primary contact for clients. You will ensure high-quality processing, apply best practices, and support the use of collections across multiple applications.

The ideal candidate has at least five years of archival experience, an MLIS with Archives or Cataloging, strong communication skills, and proven ability to manage complex projects and travel as needed.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of progressive archival experience.
• MLIS with Archives and/or Cataloging specialization required.
• Certified Archivist (CA) preferred.
• Experience managing archival projects and working with clients or stakeholders.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
• Experience with digital asset management systems and databases.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and handle archival materials.
• Willingness to travel as needed.

Responsibilities

• Manage and execute archival projects from initial assessment through completion.
• Conduct collection surveys and evaluate archival materials to determine processing needs.
• Organize, arrange, and describe archival collections following established standards.
• Perform detailed cataloging and metadata management.
• Prepare finding aids, inventories, and supporting documentation.
• Recommend and implement appropriate preservation and storage practices.
• Identify materials for digitization and support project planning efforts.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, providing updates and recommendations.
• Support the use of archival materials for business, research, and engagement purposes.
• Mentor and provide guidance to archivists and project staff.
• Ensure adherence to timelines, quality standards, and project deliverables.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including digitization and project management.

Skills

Project management

Client engagement

Communication

Team leadership

Multitasking

Problem solving

Education

MLIS with Archives/Cataloging

Tools

Microsoft Office

DAM systems

Databases

Job description

Role Overview

Heritage Werks is seeking a Lead Archivist, Collections & Client Services to oversee and execute archival projects while serving as a key point of contact for client engagement. This role is responsible for ensuring high-quality archival processing, maintaining best practices, and supporting the effective use of collections across a variety of applications.

The ideal candidate brings strong archival expertise, experience managing complex projects, and the ability to work collaboratively with both internal teams and external clients.

About Heritage Werks

Heritage Werks partners with leading brands, sports organizations, and cultural institutions to preserve and manage their most valuable historical assets. Our work focuses on maintaining archival integrity while supporting practical and meaningful use of collections.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and execute archival projects from initial assessment through completion
• Conduct collection surveys and evaluate archival materials to determine processing needs
• Organize, arrange, and describe archival collections following established standards
• Perform detailed cataloging and metadata management
• Prepare finding aids, inventories, and supporting documentation
• Recommend and implement appropriate preservation and storage practices
• Identify materials for digitization and support project planning efforts
• Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, providing updates and recommendations
• Support the use of archival materials for business, research, and engagement purposes
• Mentor and provide guidance to archivists and project staff
• Ensure adherence to timelines, quality standards, and project deliverables
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including digitization and project management

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of progressive archival experience
• MLIS with Archives and/or Cataloging specialization required
• Certified Archivist (CA) preferred
• Experience managing archival projects and working with clients or stakeholders
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively
• Experience with digital asset management systems and databases
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Willingness to travel as needed
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and handle archival materials
• Flexibility to work across Heritage Werks locations based on business needs

Core Competencies

• Advanced archival judgment and decision-making
• Client orientation and consultative communication
• Accountability and ownership
• Focus on quality and precision
• Team leadership and mentorship
• Alignment with company values and project goals

Why Join Heritage Werks

Heritage Werks offers a professional environment focused on quality, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Employees have the opportunity to work on diverse collections across industries while developing their expertise.

Benefits include:

• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company contribution
• Paid time off, holidays, and an end of year winter break
• Professional development and growth opportunities

Equal Opportunity Employer

Heritage Werks is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe no one should be discriminated against based on age, disability, ethnicity, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, or any other protected status under federal, state, or local law. We proudly support veteran employment opportunities for service members and their families.