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City of San José
ARCHIVIST (6326)

CLASS PURPOSE
   Under general supervision, performs work of moderate difficulty in the managing of and collecting, preserving, cataloging, storing, and interpreting of all manuscripts, books, maps, and photographs in the Historical Museum's collections. Performs related work as required.

TYPICAL DUTIES AND RESULTS  (The position may not include all the duties listed, nor do the examples cover all the duties which may be performed.)

• Collects, preserves, catalogs, stores, and interprets all archival materials in the Historical Museum collections.

• Recommends collection policies and practices.

• Secures additional historical manuscripts for display from individuals, organizations, and businesses.

• Determines method of inventory for a variety of collections and determines ability to process such collections.

• Performs archival conservation, including minor cleaning and repair of items.

• Trains, supervises, and utilizes volunteers in the archival program.

• Provides security for collections while providing access to researchers.

• Prepares written correspondence to inquiries.

• Assists media, other City departments, and institutions in acquiring information contained in the

• archives.

• Analyzes use fee structure and makes recommendations for appropriate fees.

• Develops and maintains systems for collection of archival use fees.

• Cooperates with curatorial staff in the research and materials necessary for exhibits or projects.

• Maintains archival acquisition records.

• Researches detailed historical information through other institutions.

• Seeks information regarding the value and importance of archival items.

• Writes historical information articles for news releases, exhibit labels, and other publications.

• Procures or recommends proper supplies and materials for the processing and storage of the archival collections.

• Interacts with other City agencies responsible for archival collections to integrate information systems and recommend citywide archival programs.

Typical End Results Include: Providing for the organization of the City's collections and encouraging donations of additional items to the collections. Providing for the proper security and care of the City's archives while making them available for public display which promotes and enhances the heritage of the City.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
   This is a single position class in the classified service. The incumbent is assigned professional museum responsibilities in the organization, care, and security of the City's archives. The incumbent is responsible for determining the most appropriate method of inventory and storage of archival materials.

QUALIFICATIONS
   Minimum Knowledges, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of archival collections, their organization and utilization.

• Knowledge of museum operations and purposes.

• Ability to research historical information.

• Ability to assess archival collections.

• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, other museum

• professionals, and the general public.

Competency Knowledges, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to train and supervise volunteers in the archival program.

• Ability to determine archival use fees and establish systems for collection.

Training and Experience
   Any combination of training and experience equivalent to successful completion of advanced undergraduate course work from an accredited college or university in the field of museum studies, history, library science, or closely related field, and one (1) year's experience in managing an archival collection.

Licenses/Certificates
   Possession of a valid California driver's license.

(6303P/0362P)