University Archivist - Drexel University (Philadelphia, PA)
Drexel University
Philadelphia

Position Title: University Archivist

  
The University Archives selects and preserves records in a variety of formats
that document the founding, growth and function of the University as a leading
STEM focused institution, founded in the late 19th century as the Drexel
Institute of Art, Science and Industry. Since the institution's founding, its
greatly expanded enrollment, campuses, and focus on experiential learning
reflect a history of responsiveness to societal and individual needs and a
tradition of innovation.

  
The Archives was developed into a formal program within the University
Libraries just 15 years ago, and implemented a formal University Records
Management program three years ago. The Archives includes 65,659 digital
objects and 2,606 linear feet in multiple formats. There are 2 FTE staff and
occasional project based student employees. As part of the division for Data
and Digital Stewardship, its focus for growth is data and digital records; its
digital repository (iDEA) provides access to Drexel theses, dissertations, and
other digital collections. The Archives also includes small special
collections, including the history of library education and professional
organizations and the history of the book. Researchers and users include
Drexel administrative units, faculty and students, alumni and families, and
those studying the history of science, technology, library science, and
education. Similar campus units managing historic artifacts and offering
collaborative opportunities include those focused on the history of women in
medicine, of audio works, of fashion and historic costume, of Drexel's art and
museum collections, and the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University.

  
Drexel University Libraries seeks a creative, entrepreneurial archivist to
lead the continued growth and increasing impact of the Archives collections
and programs. We seek managerial leadership for the discovery, use and
interpretation of its resources by the Drexel community, facilitating the
exposure of Drexel University content to learners and researchers globally.

  
Key Responsibilities

  
The University Archivist, reporting to the Director, Data & Digital
Stewardship, is responsible for managing and interpreting its digital and
special collections, while ensuring preservation of and access to University
records of enduring value. Duties include:

• Lead the University Archives program through articulation of program
mission, goals, and impact; manage and coordinate daily functions, policies,
and program operation in accordance with professional standards and best
practices and identify issues related to digital objects and collections and
implementation of digital strategy for the Archives;

• Leverage Drexel's entrepreneurial culture and opportunities in concert with
the Director, Data & Digital Stewardship to develop long-term plans and
funding strategies for archival collections and records management; expand
collections by acquiring new collections of Drexel material and relevant
special collections and serve as liaison with University Administrative
departments to develop partnerships for collaboration;

• As a member of a campus federated collaborative effort for data stewardship,
cultivate the Libraries' digital repository, iDEA, by soliciting content,
assessing user needs and offering services and functions that support
scholarly communication at Drexel;

• Lead campus collaborative efforts to efficiently and effectively manage the
University's historic artifacts;

• Partner with liaison librarians to expose Drexel learners to primary
research materials;

• Serve as University Historian, collecting core stories and traditions in
multiple formats to illustrate the unique mission of Drexel University, its
academic and research experience and impact on the world;

• Promote Drexel University Libraries and University Archives in partnership
with Manager, Communications through an active outreach and educational
program including exhibitions, programs, presentations and articles;

• As supervisor of Archives staff and student employees, create supportive
team environment that encourages communication, participation, and engagement;

• Support Libraries' matrixed organizational environment through proactive
communication, creative problem-solving, and innovative efficient service
delivery;

• Participate in the Libraries' managerial leadership to evaluate and
coordinate cross-functional activities; highlighting new opportunities for
strategic review and prioritization;

• Participate in Service Quality improvement projects; identify, track, and
report on metrics that describe success of program;

• Continued engagement in professional activities, including service,
research, presentations, and/or publication.

  
Qualifications

  
Required

• Master's degree in a relevant discipline; such as programs focused on
Archives, History, or Library Science;

• Minimum of three years' experience working in archives, preferably college
or university archives; experience working with both records creators and
patrons;

• Familiarity with best practices and demonstrated technological expertise in
digital archives, records management, and/or born-digital records;

• Demonstrated success bringing innovation to the workplace;

• Sound judgment and the ability to handle responsibilities with both
discretion and independence;

• Record of successful contribution to the profession;

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple high profile and complex projects
simultaneously;

• Exceptional oral and written communication skills.

  
Preferred

• Advanced degree in related field;

• Demonstrated supervisory ability;

• Experience with digital collection platforms, e.g. Islandora;

• Ability to thrive in a changing organization;

• Experience working in a collaborative or matrixed environment, including
working with people with diverse backgrounds.

  
Supplemental Posting Information:

  
Drexel University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer,
welcomes individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, and believes
that an inclusive and respectful environment enriches the University community
and the educational and employment experience of its members. The University
prohibits discrimination against individuals on the basis of race, color,
national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, status as
a veteran or special disabled veteran, gender identity or expression, genetic
information, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions and any other
prohibited characteristic. Please visit our website to view
all University Policies and Workplace Postings.

  
Background investigations are required for all new hires as a condition of
employment, after the job offer is made. Employment will be contingent upon
the University's acceptance of the results of the background investigation.

  
Interested, qualified applicants may apply at:
www.drexeljobs.com/applicants/Central?quickFind=79469



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