Project Archivist, Jesup Memorial Library, Bar Harbor ME

Mainemuseums; Bar Harbor (ME); On-site; USD 31,684 - 34,440; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

SIMPLE IRA retirement plan

Job summary

Jesup Memorial Library in Bar Harbor, ME, seeks a Project Archivist for a one-year full-time term. The role moves archives to a climate‑controlled facility, processes materials, creates finding aids, and supports research inquiries with public service responsibilities.

Qualifications include a bachelor’s degree and archival/museum experience; MLS preferred. On-site position with benefits and a SIMPLE IRA plan. Salary $23–$25/hr.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required and archival or museum experience preferred.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and research abilities.
• Experience with archival or museum collections and long‑term projects.

Responsibilities

• Move and relocate collections to the new archives and process materials.
• Document workflows, policies, and create finding aids for access.
• Assist researchers and develop exhibitions or programs related to the collection.

Skills

Organizational skills

Analytical skills

Research skills

Public service skills

Independent work

Education

Bachelor’s degree

MLS with archives or special collections focus

Tools

Front-end web development (HTML/CSS/JS)

Digitization workflows

Metadata and collections systems

Job description

Project Archivist, Jesup Memorial Library, Bar Harbor ME

Project Archivist, Jesup Memorial Library, Bar Harbor ME - full-time, 1 year term position.

About the Position

Jesup Memorial Library seeks an enthusiastic, highly organized, and detail‑oriented archivist to move the Jesup’s archives and special collections into a newly‑constructed, climate‑controlled archives facility overlooking three of Acadia National Park’s most iconic peaks, and make those collections available for research. This position offers an exciting opportunity to steward and establish access to a unique regional collection.

About the Collections

The collections that comprise the Jesup’s archives and special collections include historical newspapers, rare books, a vertical file, institutional records from the library, historic maps, and two major manuscript collections related to the founding of Acadia National Park: the Creating Acadia National Park Research Archive and the Chapman Archive. Collections are currently housed on‑and off‑site, and the Project Archivist will facilitate their relocation to the new archives.

Primary Responsibilities

Collection Relocation & Processing (40%)

• Arrange for off‑site collections to return to the Jesup
• Move on‑site collections to their new location
• Survey manuscript and map collections and physically arrange them in archival‑quality housing
• Process and describe materials
• Develop new and maintain existing collection finding aids

Documentation & Planning (40%)

• Document collection organization, workflows, and procedures
• Develop and implement standardized policies for accessioning, processing, and access
• Work with the Library Director to develop a preservation and collections management plan
• Identify priorities for preservation, processing, and digitization
• Establish digitization workflows following best practices and in partnership with History Trust colleagues
• Document systems to support long‑term stewardship of the collection

Outreach & Engagement (20%)

• Assist researchers, students, and the public with research inquiries
• Supervise and train volunteer(s)
• Develop physical and online exhibits, programs, or presentations related to the collection

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree
• Strong organizational, analytical, and research skills
• Experience working with archival or museum collections
• Ability to work independently and manage long‑term projects
• Excellent communication and public service skills and an interest in working with Bar Harbor’s diverse local, seasonal, and tourist communities
• Ability to pass a background check

Preferred

• MLS with archives or special collections focus or master’s degree in museum studies, public history, archives, or related field
• Experience with front‑end web development, e.g. HTML, CSS, Javascript
• Familiarity with image processing software and understanding of different digital file formats
• Familiarity with digitization, metadata, or collections management systems
• Interest in Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor, or Downeast Maine

Equivalent combinations of education and relevant experience will be considered.

Conditions

• One‑year term with possibility of renewal for a second year
• 40‑hour work week
• On‑site position
• Reports to the Library Director, works closely with the Collections Manager

Compensation

• $23‑$25/hour, commensurate with experience
• 80% employer‑paid health, dental, and vision insurance
• 22 days PTO (12 holidays and 10 vacation days)
• Paid sick leave
• SIMPLE IRA retirement plan with 3% employer match, beginning January 2027

How to Apply

Submit a cover letter explaining your interest in this position, a resume, and contact information for three professional references to: [e-mail] . Review of applications will begin July 17, 2026. Position will remain open until filled. References will not be contacted without candidate approval.