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Job Description
University Archives and Special Collections Instruction and Outreach Archivist 4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 735 University Avenue, Sewanee, TN 37375 Full-time Sewanee 2 reviews Full-time Salary Depends on Qualifications Location Sewanee, TN Job Type Staff Full-Time Job Number 202100522 Division Library & Information Technology Services Department University Archives & Special Collections Opening Date 06/04/2026
Position Overview Primary Function:
The Instruction and Outreach Archivist is responsible for archival instruction and outreach to the University of the South students, faculty, staff, and the local community. This individual promotes the Archives as the University's liberal arts laboratory. In so doing, they lead archival instruction initiatives and collaborate with faculty and staff to create related primary source instruction and hands-on opportunities with archival and special collections resources. In addition, this individual works to increase the visibility and use of Archives collections and exhibits across campus, foster relationships with University projects and programs, and create community outreach and engagement opportunities. They also actively participate in general Archives support activities.
Position Appointment Details:
Career Band:
2
C Full-Time Position Description Typical Duties & Responsibilities:
Education and Instruction Develop and lead general orientations to the University Archives and Special Collections. Collaborate with faculty to design and teach customized archival instruction sessions Work with faculty to develop archival projects within classes or to integrate archival materials into classes Design instructional materials, such as LibGuides, for frequently researched topics or for class use Schedule, plan, and organize class sessions at the Archives Work with the Digital Archivist to help determine materials for digitization and online exhibits useful for University classes and general outreach Outreach and Community Engagement Strengthen outreach and connections to University programs, departments, projects, and student organizations Promote awareness of Archives through various outlets, including social media Plan special events, tours, workshops, etc., related to archival resources Enhance and increase engagement with archival exhibits by creating activities for University classes or school groups upon request Actively participate in general Archives and Special Collections support activities Assist with reference services Contribute to exhibit research, production, and installation Collaborate on ensuring resources are easily discoverable and accessible to users Participate in departmental planning, policy development, and decision-making Participate in LITS and University organizations, committees, and task forces Page and reshelve materials Other duties as assigned
Machines & Equipment Used:
Computers, mobile devices, printers, copiers, scanners.
Judgment Required:
Independent judgment and discretion are required in the application of standard operating procedures to the essential duties of this position.
Budgetary Responsibility:
Personal Interaction/Communication:
Student Contact:
On a daily basis, providing archival instruction and assistance, answering questions.
Internal:
On a daily basis, providing archival instruction and assistance, answering questions, and participating in University committee involvement.
External:
On a daily basis, providing archival instruction and assistance, answering questions. Attributes of a
Successful Candidate Education:
Master's degree in archival studies, library science, history, or a related field with an archival concentration or significant coursework in archives.
Experience:
1-2 years of experience in archives or special collections strongly preferred. Some experience providing instruction. Experience providing archival instruction is highly desired.
Job-Related Skills:
Demonstrated understanding of the principles of active learning and best practices related to teaching with primary source materials. Engaging teaching and presentation skills. Experience with special collection, archival, or museum exhibition promotion. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Excellent interpersonal skills. Knowledge of professional archival standards, best practices, and technologies for accessing, arranging, describing, and preserving archival materials.
Supplemental Information Confidential Information:
Faculty and departmental files, correspondence, research materials, personnel activities, records for library patrons, restricted and sensitive archival and manuscript materials.
Working Environment:
University Archives and Special Collections, normal office environment, some physical maneuvering of boxes, objects, and other sometimes heavy items. Working with older materials may involve exposure to mold. Staff members are expected to present a professional demeanor and appearance in dealing with all members of the University community and the general public in the performance of duties for this position. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ The University of the South, familiarly known as "Sewanee," is home to a nationally recognized College of Arts and Sciences and a School of Theology. Sewanee is distinguished by its dedication to cultivate academic excellence, community values, and environmental stewardship that produces informed, self-aware, and participatory citizens for our democracy and servant-leaders for the world. Nestled on 13,000 acres atop Tennessee's Cumberland Plateau, the University offers both a uniquely beautiful setting and convenient access to nearby cities—Chattanooga, Nashville, and Huntsville. The University is affiliated with the Episcopal Church and seeks to be a place where individuals from a variety of backgrounds and experiences find support, opportunity, and purpose. Support in the Hiring Process If you have questions about a position or need assistance filing an application, or if you are a person with a disability and would like to request an accommodation in the application and interview process, please contact Human Resources at 931.598.1381 or hr@sewanee.edu. Equal Employment Opportunity The University of the South is an equal-opportunity institution, dedicated to treating all applicants fairly and fostering a welcoming environment for employees and students alike. University Benefits Employer University of the South Address 735 University Avenue Sewanee, Tennessee, 37383 Phone 9315981381 Website https://new.sewanee.edu/hr/
