Human Rights Archivist

University of Texas Libraries — The University of Texas at Austin

The Human Rights Archivist is responsible for planning and coordinating the work of the University of Texas Libraries program for the collection and preservation of analog and digital archives and manuscript collections that document human rights conflict worldwide, and for providing access to the collections. Tasks include: managing special projects for the identification and acquisition of digitized print and audiovisual materials and of web-based human rights resources; building a digital archival repository for human rights resources; processing of traditional archives and manuscript collections; appraising and acquiring human rights archives and published content; providing reference service and building access tools; supervising student assistants. The position is based at the University of Texas Libraries' Nettie Lee Benson Latin American Collection , and reports to the Benson Collection Archivist.

The collections of the University of Texas Libraries are the result of more than one hundred years of continuing commitment by librarians, faculty, students, and private donors to build one of the great library collections of the world. Containing more than eight million volumes, the library directly supports the research and instructional needs of the University, while also serving as a custodian of culture and discovery. Through service to international human rights scholars, activists and students, the University of Texas Libraries identified a need to preserve and make accessible the historical record of genocide and human rights violations. To this end, the Libraries will expand traditional archival programming as well as collect and preserve in digital form the record of genocide and human rights conflicts worldwide. Collecting and cataloging fragile or transient Web sites of human rights advocacy and genocide watch, and audio and video documentation, formats that are especially endangered, will form two cores of the Libraries’ digital archival preservation programming.

Required Qualifications: MLS or equivalent graduate degree from an accredited program. At least two years of formal experience in processing and management of archival collections. Experience with Encoded Archival Description (EAD), MAchine Readable Cataloging (MARC), and Describing Archives Content Standard (DACS). Reading knowledge of Spanish, French, or other languages. Availability for international travel. Supervisory experience.

Preferred Qualifications: The Human Rights Archivist should be an experienced and motivated archive professional with a demonstrated record of innovation and public service. This position will focus strongly on digital archival content, so knowledge of and familiarity with XML-based metadata standards (such as MODS, PREMIS, METS, etc.) are highly desirable. Certification by the Academy of Certified Archivists is preferred. Demonstrated leadership, ability to work within a team, and cross-cultural experience are necessary, as is the ability to work with library and academic professionals at the University and with international scholars and activists in the human rights community. The successful candidate will have significant experience processing archives and manuscript collections and be familiar with both analog and digital preservation. Knowledge of national and international human rights history is preferred to accomplish the successful identification and appraisal of valuable content. Demonstrated initiative, creativity, flexibility, and the ability to facilitate change and to meet deadlines are all desired in order to break new ground in information service to the scholarly and activist communities. Demonstrated public speaking, teaching, interpersonal, and writing skills will enable the archivist to accomplish effective outreach and public service for the Libraries innovative human rights programs.

Salary and Benefits: $45,000 negotiable depending on qualifications and experience. No state or local income tax. Standard state benefits package including annual vacation and sick leave, paid holidays, retirement plans, and health insurance options (comprehensive major medical, dental, vision, life, and disability). Deferred compensation and tax sheltered annuity programs also available.

Recruiting Schedule: To receive full consideration, complete application materials are due by October 24, 2008. Interested candidates must complete an online Application of Employment . Please refer to job posting # 08-09-23-01-0080 and follow applicant instructions given online which include submitting the following additional materials: a letter of interest, a full resume, a statement of salary requirements and the names, addresses (including email) and telephone numbers of three professional references. Send these additional materials to Alma Rodriguez (alma@austin.utexas.edu) via email. An email confirmation will be sent within 1-2 working days to candidates who have submitted both the online application and who have emailed the additional materials as instructed.

The University of Texas Libraries has a strong commitment to diversity and encourages applications and nominations from traditionally underrepresented groups.

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer