University Archivist

MVSU International; Itta Bena (MS); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

Mississippi Valley State University seeks a University Archivist to oversee the Annie M. Payton Archives and Special Collections. You will manage acquisition, processing, use, security, and preservation of physical and digital materials, and provide reference services as needed.

The role includes digitization, digital preservation initiatives, policy development, and outreach through exhibitions and public programming, with occasional evenings/weekends for grant-related activities.

Qualifications

• ALA accredited Master’s of Library Science with archival administration training.
• 3–5 years of archival or special collections management experience or a Master’s in History or Museum Studies.
• Excellent interpersonal, written and oral communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee acquisition, processing, use, security, and preservation of archival materials for the Annie M. Payton Archives and Special Collections.
• Manage reference service and research assistance related to archives and special collections.
• Digitize materials and lead digital preservation initiatives; monitor storage environments and handle fragile items.
• Develop policies for archival management and promote resources through outreach, exhibitions, and collaborations.
• Represent University Archives in university-wide digital curation and preservation discussions; coordinate public programming and engagement.

Skills

Interpersonal communication

Written communication

Oral communication

Education

MLS or equivalent in History/M Museum Studies

Job description

The University Archivist oversees the acquisition, processing, use, security, and preservation of physical and digital materials for the Annie M. Payton Archives and Special Collections.

Accountability

Reports to the Director of Library Services

• Management, appraisal, processing, preservation, and organization of archival materials, including special collections and university records.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures for archival management, ensuring the protection and accessibility of materials.
• Provide reference service and research assistance related to the archives, special collections, and other areas of the library, as needed.
• Digitize archival materials and manage digital preservation initiatives.
• Promote awareness of archival resources through outreach, exhibits, and collaborations.
• Represents University Archives interests in University-wide developments related to digital curation, digital preservation and storage, and use of records of all kinds in all formats.
• Promotes engagement with the collections, in collaboration with internal and external partners, through outreach that includes public programming, exhibitions, social media, and innovative forms of engagement.
• Monitor storage environments, handle fragile items with care, and oversee the digitization or microfilming of physical records to prevent deterioration.
• May be required to work occasional evenings and weekends to support grant-related activities, events, and program objectives.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned that are consistent with the purpose, scope, and objectives of the grant-funded program.

Required Qualifications

ALA accredited Master’s of Library Science Degree including graduate level training in archival administration and a minimum of three to five years of archival or special collections management experience or a Master’s Degree in History or Museum Studies. Must have excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

Highly Desirable: Experience with grant writing proposals to support archives and preservation.

Physical Demands

Applicant must be able to lift, and or carry 5 to10 pounds. Be able to stoop, bend, kneel, squat and climb ladder with good balance. Applicant must be able to sit and stand for prolonged periods of time. Required to assist at the Public Service Areas as needed.

Posting Number

SF878P

Open Date

04/01/2026

Close Date

Open Until Filled Yes

Special Instructions to Applicants

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

Documents Needed To Apply

Required Documents

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Transcripts
• Letter of Recommendation
• Curriculum Vitae

Optional Documents

• Media File
• Portfolio