Reference Archivist I

Job Summary
Performs routine (journey-level) archival reference work. Work involves conducting research; providing information and materials in response to requests. Works under moderate supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Essential Tasks
Provides basic information and reference assistance to patrons of the Texas State Archives in person, by phone, or by mail.
Participates in the development of program goals and objectives in the area of assignment.
Enforces reference room security regulations.
May review records for information excepted from disclosure by the Public Information Act and assist with redaction of restricted records, which may include disturbing images or information.
Assists with archival workshops and seminars for staff and patrons.
Prepares or revises inventories, indexes, and finding aids that facilitate access to records.
Performs related work as assigned.
Attends work regularly and in accordance with agency leave and attendance policies.
Complies with all applicable agency policies and procedures, including safety and standards of conduct.

Other Tasks
Participates in special projects.
Assists in collection development and preservation.
Assists in the preparation of reports, manuals, and publications.
Assists with tours, orientations, workshops, and other presentations about holdings.

Minimum Qualifications
Master’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in history, government, library science, or related discipline.
Experience providing archival reference assistance utilizing original records, public records, or manuscript collections.
One-year public service experience in a library or archives setting.
Experience using word processing, database, and spreadsheet applications.
Experience with state and local government records.

Preferred Qualifications
Experience providing professional reference assistance utilizing genealogical resources.
Experience providing professional reference assistance utilizing state and federal government publications.
Experience responding to requests submitted under the Texas Public Information Act.
Experience with standard archival processing techniques.
College coursework in or additional master’s degree in Texas history or U.S. government.
Experience making oral presentations to groups of varying size and demographics.
Experience using the SIRSI integrated library system.
Coursework in archival administration.
Certified Archivist designation.
Multi-lingual expertise speaking, reading, and writing in Spanish and/or German.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities
Knowledge of library and reference tools, techniques, and services.
Knowledge of standard research sources.
Knowledge of computer-assisted search theories and techniques.
Knowledge of U.S. government and Texas history and government.
Ability to multi-task, set priorities, and perform work independently.
Ability to write articles, reports, or annotations.
Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
Ability to make public presentations.
Ability to handle several reference queries simultaneously in a high stress environment.
Ability to perform intensive historical research.

Environmental/Physical Conditions
Normal non-smoking office work environment and may have exposure to dust and environmental allergens consistent with normal business activities and human contact. Mostly sedentary in nature but may involve moving; standing; pulling and pushing; kneeling, stooping, and bending; climbing stools and ladders; performing tasks requiring fine motor skill and coordination to safely move items weighing up to 40 pounds. Must be able to work extended periods at a computer. Requires working extended hours and some evenings and weekends as needed. Normal cognitive abilities including the ability to learn, recall and apply certain practices and policies and interpret data. Travel (<2%), some overnight, will be required to conduct training, speak publicly, and attend meetings.

Other Requirements
College transcripts (undergraduate and graduate) must be submitted at the time of application.
Must submit writing sample with application; sample should reflect professional business style and be no more than 500 words in length.
In-basket exercise will be given at time of interview.
Criminal history check will be required upon contingent offer.

Reporting Relationships
Reports to Information Services Supervisor. Has no supervisory responsibility.