Reference Archivist II / Maine State Archives

maine; Augusta (ME); On-site; USD 27,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

The Maine State Archives is seeking an Archivist II to lead archival care, preservation, digitization, and documentation of collections in Augusta. This professional role involves coordinating staff and interns, coordinating projects, and ensuring access to government records for the public and agencies.

The position requires strong customer service, research skills, and attention to detail, with responsibilities spanning policy development, outreach, and collaboration in a fast-paced,

Qualifications

• Provides reference services and subject-area expertise to the public and state agencies
• Uses archival tools and best practices for finding, using, and handling historical documents
• Performs detailed historical, statutory, and other research
• Develops and refines policies and procedures

Responsibilities

• Provides reference services and subject-area expertise via email, phone, and in person
• Educates others on archival tools and best practices
• Performs detailed historical, statutory and research for in-house and public use
• Works with patrons and agencies to deliver content experiences and workshops
• Coordinates and leads team projects and workflows
• Develops multi-year project management plans
• Evaluates materials for accession and deaccession
• Determines conservation methods to preserve records

Skills

Customer Service

Communication Skills

Adaptability

Teamwork

Attention to Detail

Problem-Solving

Professionalism

Emotional Intelligence

Time Management

Conflict Resolution

Job description

Department: Secretary of State / Maine State Archives

Division: Archives

Location: Augusta

Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm

Grade: 19

Salary: $19.84 - $27.49

Closing Date: August 18, 2026

Join Our Team at the Department of the Secretary of State:

At the Department of the Secretary of State, we are a team dedicated to providing efficient and exceptional service to our community. We prioritize work-life balance and offer excellent benefits to support our team in achieving professional success while maintaining personal well-being. Join a team that fosters a culture of teamwork, integrity, and continuous improvement, offering opportunities for growth and making a meaningful impact on the lives of our citizens.

Are you ready to make a difference?

We are looking for dedicated and collaborative individuals who thrive in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. If you are passionate about delivering outstanding public service, contributing to a high-performing team, and supporting the people of Maine every day, we want you on our team.

About the Position:

This is professional services work involving archival work in a specialized area. The Archivist II performs work independently and under limited supervision, overseeing the care, maintenance, organization, preservation, digitization, and documentation of archival collections. In the absence of the Archivist III, the Archivist II is responsible for coordinating the work of Archivist I, contract workers, and interns.

What We're Looking For:

• Customer Service Excellence : Demonstrated ability to provide courteous, accurate, and efficient service in a fast-paced setting with a diverse public.
• High Volume Readiness : Comfortable handling large numbers of customer interactions per day while maintaining composure and professionalism.
• Team Collaboration : Work effectively within a team, supporting shared goals and contributing to a respectful, productive workplace.
• Adaptability : Adjust quickly to new procedures, policies, and technologies as agency needs evolve.
• Attention to Detail : A focus on accuracy and thoroughness in completing tasks and managing responsibilities. Confidently make informed decisions and stay solution-focused while managing multiple priorities without sacrificing accuracy or customer satisfaction.
• Clear Communication : Strong verbal and written communication skills to explain complex rules and processes in a way that is easy for the public to understand.
• Problem-Solving : Identify and resolve issues efficiently while maintaining a calm and helpful demeanor.
• Professionalism : Consistently represent the Department with respect, integrity, and accountability.

Key Competencies We Value:

• Emotional Intelligence : Empathetic, self-aware, and able to manage high-stress interactions with tact.
• Conflict Resolution : Handle difficult or emotional customer situations with patience and effectiveness.
• Time Management : Prioritize tasks and complete assignments accurately and on time.
• Commitment to Excellence : Dedication to high-quality work, accuracy, and upholding public trust.
• Continuous Improvement : A mindset focused on improving processes, learning new skills, and supporting team development.

In This Role You Will:

• Provides reference services and subject-area expertise to the public and state agencies through email, telephone, and in person, including assisting researchers in the public research room.
• Uses and educates others on archival tools and best practices, including databases, guides, and other resources for finding, using, and handling historical documents in paper and digital formats.
• Performs detailed historical, statutory, and other research for in-house and public use using a variety of physical and digital resources.
• Works with patrons, state agencies, and community partners to provide specialized content experiences, programs, outreach and deliverables, including creation of research guides, presentations, and workshops.
• Develops, implements, and refines policies and procedures.
• Arranges, processes, and preserves collections in accordance with accepted professional standards and practices, including understanding and implementation of DACS and EAD, to maintain control of and provide public access to governmental documents.
• Coordinates and leads team projects, including designing strategy and workflow, delegating tasks, assessing progress, and ensuring goals are met.
• Develops and executes multi-year project management plans.
• Evaluates materials for accession and deaccession.
• Determines and deploys appropriate conservation methods to preserve and rehabilitate records.
• Assesses and recommend potential