Career Overview
An Archivist is a professional responsible for preserving, organizing, and managing historical records, documents, and other information of significance. Archivists play a critical role in ensuring that important materials, such as government records, manuscripts, photographs, and digital files, are preserved for future generations. Their work contributes to the cultural and historical understanding of a society, helping researchers, historians, and the general public access valuable information.
Pathway to Becoming an Archivist
Plus Two (High School): Students from any stream (science, commerce, or humanities) can pursue a career as an archivist. However, humanities, particularly history, may offer a stronger foundation.
Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as History, Library Science, Information Science, Public Administration, or Archives Management, is typically the first step. Some universities offer specialized courses in Archival Studies or Museum Studies.
Master’s Degree: Many archivists pursue a Master of Library Science (MLS) or a Master of Archival Studies (MAS). Other fields like History, Information Science, or Museum Studies also provide relevant skills for this role.
Certifications: Some archivists pursue additional certifications, such as the Certified Archivist credential from the Academy of Certified Archivists (ACA) to enhance their qualifications.
PhD (Optional): Those seeking careers in academia or high-level research positions may pursue a PhD in Archival Science, Library Science, or History.
Internships/Apprenticeships: Gaining practical experience through internships or apprenticeships with archives, libraries, or museums is often essential for entering this field.
Work Description
Archivists are responsible for appraising, organizing, preserving, and providing access to records and documents of historical, legal, or administrative importance. Their daily tasks include:
Assessing the value of records and determining what to keep or discard.
Cataloging and indexing archives for easy retrieval.
Preserving and conserving documents to prevent degradation.
Creating digital archives and ensuring long-term access to digital materials.
Assisting researchers, historians, and the public in locating and accessing information.
Ensuring compliance with legal, ethical, and privacy standards in archiving processes.
Roles and Responsibilities
Acquisition and Appraisal: Identifying and acquiring records of historical or legal value.
Organization and Cataloging: Systematically arranging and describing records for efficient storage and retrieval.
Preservation: Implementing strategies to conserve materials in their original form or through digital conversion.
Access and Dissemination: Facilitating access to records for research, legal purposes, or public inquiry.
Outreach and Education: Conducting public programs, exhibitions, and workshops to engage the community with archival materials.
Technology Management: Using digital tools to create electronic archives, ensuring digital preservation, and facilitating online access.
Required Skills
Technical Skills:
Knowledge of archival software and digital preservation tools.
Expertise in cataloging and metadata standards (e.g., Dublin Core, MARC).
Proficiency in digitization techniques for preserving historical documents.
Soft Skills:
Attention to detail to ensure accurate cataloging and preservation.
Organizational skills for managing vast collections of records.
Research skills to support users in locating specific information.
Communication skills for engaging with the public and conducting educational programs.
Analytical skills to assess the value and importance of records.
Career Navigation
Entry-Level: Start with a bachelor’s degree and internships in archives, libraries, or museums.
Mid-Level: With a master's degree and certification, you can advance to more specialized archivist roles, such as a Digital Archivist or Records Manager.
Senior-Level: After gaining years of experience, professionals can move into senior roles like Head Archivist or Archivist Consultant, overseeing large collections or entire departments.
Transitioning Roles: Archivists can transition into roles such as Conservators, Curators, Records Managers, or Digital Preservation Specialists.
Career Opportunities
Archivists work in various sectors, including:
Government agencies: National and local government archives.
Museums: Handling artifact documentation and historical records.
Universities: Managing special collections and university records.
Corporations: Overseeing the preservation of corporate records.
Nonprofits: Managing archives related to historical, cultural, or environmental causes.
Average Salary
India: Entry-level archivists can expect to earn around ₹3,00,000 - ₹5,00,000 per year, while experienced archivists may earn up to ₹8,00,000 - ₹10,00,000 per year. Senior positions may offer salaries above ₹12,00,000 annually.
Abroad: In the U.S., the average salary for archivists ranges from $45,000 - $60,000 at the entry level, with senior positions earning $70,000 - $100,000. In the U.K., salaries range from £25,000 - £40,000 depending on experience.
Job Options
Archivist: Working in libraries, museums, government, or private organizations.
Records Manager: Managing records and ensuring legal compliance in handling records.
Digital Archivist: Specializing in the preservation and management of digital records.
Historical Researcher: Using archival skills to research and compile historical data.
Curator: Overseeing collections and exhibitions in museums or galleries.
Corporate Archivist: Managing records and archival material for businesses.