Archivist

POSITION SUMMARY

The Archivist is responsible for the acquisition, preservation, and accessibility of the Archdiocese of Detroit’s historical records, Curial administrative records, and some parish, school and other related records in physical and digital form through the oversight and operation of a professional archival system in what is called the Archdiocesan Archives.  The role ensures the preservation of these records in the short term, according to church and civil law, and in the long term for research concerning the history of the Gospel being announced by the Catholic Church in southeast Michigan.

The Archivist provides professional research support for the Archbishop of Detroit, senior Curia leadership, parish and school staff, as well as researchers from outside these institutions.

The Archivist serves as an officer to issue sacramental certificates and education records from those collections that are held in the Archdiocesan Archives.

The Archivist is the principal promotor and educator within the Archdiocesan Curia of the Archdiocesan records creation and retention policies.

 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Collect, arrange, describe, and preserve archival records following professional standards.

• Ensure physical and environmental control of all archival records of the Curia and those records that are accessioned into the Archives from parishes, schools, and other Catholic institutions.

• In addition to maintaining the physical records, build and maintain a modern digital archives system, which includes active instruction of employees and volunteers on the creation and preservation of digital files according to our Archdiocese of Detroit Records Policy.

• Maintain and preserve sacramental records from closed parishes; provide certificates upon request.

• Maintain and preserve educational records from closed schools; provide transcripts, verifications, and replace high school diplomas upon request and through the auspices of the Director of the Department of Catholic Schools.

• Maintain confidentiality of restricted or sensitive files and protect personally identified information (PII).

• Oversee digital archival practices, including digitization workflows and metadata standards.

• Train staff and volunteers on proper digital file creation and preservation requirements.

• Provide research services for Curia staff and, as resources permit, for parish and school staff, and other Catholic institutions.

• As resources permit and provided it advances the work of the Church, review and approve research requests from non‑Catholic institutions and researchers (in the case of the latter, by appointment only).

• Review and update archives policies.

• Establish, maintain, and coordinate the Archives Advisory Committee.

• Regularly consult with parishes and schools on the management of their records in accordance with canon law.

• Maintain and update the Sacramental Record Keeping Guide, reminding parishes and schools of the requirements contained therein and provide workshops on the guide from time to time.

• Provide other workshops and presentations on archival topics from time to time, at the request and/or approval of the Chancellor.

• Supervise student interns from time to time; the Archives Coordinator is supervised by the Chancellor.

• Collaborate with HR to support intern recruitment.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the Chancellor.

 

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Understand that the Archives is a function of the Archdiocese of Detroit and public agreement with the teaching and work of the Catholic Church is imperative.

• Interest in the history of the Catholic Church in Michigan and the wider Midwest region, seeing oneself as a source of information concerning this history.

• Strong communication and customer service skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and computer applications.

• Strong organizational and multitasking skills.

• Knowledge of archival theory and digital preservation.

• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.

 

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Graduate degree in History, Library Science, Archival Studies, Information Science, or related field required.

• Recent education and training in creating and/or operating a digital archive for an institution.  Experience in this regard is subordinate but a plus.

• Certificate in Archival Administration preferred

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Prolonged sitting and computer work.

• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.

• Some standing, bending, and walking.

 

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

• Not applicable.

 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must agree not to engage in or endorse beliefs contrary to Catholic teaching.

• Must maintain strict confidentiality regarding Archdiocesan information.

EEO / AFFIRMATIVE ACTION STATEMENT

The Archdiocese of Detroit is an equal opportunity employer and does not illegally discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics.