Archivist

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• an apprenticeship

University

You'll need a degree and postgraduate training to do this job. Most degree subjects are accepted, but you may find it useful to take a degree like:

• history
• information science
• law
• languages

After you complete a degree, you can do a postgraduate qualification in archives or records management recognised by the Archives & Records Association (ARA).

You'll usually need some relevant work experience to apply for a postgraduate course. This is a great way of finding out if a career as an archivist is for you.

Entry requirements:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course

Entry requirements:

Apprenticeship

You could do an Archivist and records manager degree apprenticeship.

This typically takes 36 months to complete as a mix of learning in the workplace and study with an approved university.

Entry requirements:

Volunteering

It's important that you get some paid or unpaid experience in archives or records management work. This will help when you apply for courses and jobs.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

Skills:

• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• an interest and knowledge of history
• analytical thinking skills
• administration skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• customer service skills
• the ability to work well with others
• concentration skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• knowledge of English language
• the ability to read English
• thinking and reasoning skills
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• maths skills
• persistence and determination
• active listening skills
• excellent written communication skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• the ability to use your judgement and make decisions
• the ability to work well with your hands

What you'll do:

Archivists look after and preserve collections of historical records and documents.

In this role you could:

• store materials correctly and keep them in good condition
• use archive management software to date, catalogue and index materials
• create and set up programmes to digitise records and materials
• help people use the archives
• make records available to users in formats such as photocopies, microfiche and online
• carry out research
• give talks and organise presentations, displays and exhibitions
• negotiate the buying or donation of archive material

Location : You could work in an office.
Environment : Your working environment may be physically demanding, cramped and dusty.

Salary:

Starter : £21,000
Experienced : £60,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

38 - 40 hours a week

Working Pattern is between 8am and 6pm

Career Path:

With experience, you could work with large and prestigious organisations, like national archives and museums, businesses, church foundations and charities.

You could supervise or manage a team of archivists, be responsible for funding bids and advise on strategy and planning.

You could become self-employed.