UK Career Advice

Archivist Assistant: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path

Career Overview
Interview Questions

What is a Archivist Assistant?

An Archivist Assistant works alongside librarians to help manage, organize, and preserve important documents and materials in a library. They play a key role in making these resources accessible to the public by cataloguing, indexing, and assisting in research requests.

How do I become a Archivist Assistant?

An Archivist Assistant works alongside librarians to help manage, organize, and preserve important documents and materials in a library. They play a key role in making these resources accessible to the public by cataloguing, indexing, and assisting in research requests.

What would you like to know?

What does it take to become an Archivist Assistant?

Skills, education, personality, career progression

Job demand for an Archivist Assistant

Job ads, popular location, season to apply



Skills

  • Knowledge of archival principles and practices
  • Ability to organize and manage large volumes of information
  • Attention to detail and accuracy in record keeping
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Proficiency in using digital and physical archival tools and technologies
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Familiarity with relevant legal and ethical considerations in archival work
  • Flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities and demands
  • Strong research and analytical skills
  • Commitment to preserving and promoting cultural heritage and historical knowledge

Qualifications & Education

  • An accredited degree or postgraduate qualification is required for entry into the library professionals career field in the UK
  • Most postgraduate courses require applicants to have prior relevant work experience
  • Professional qualifications in Information and Library Service are available at Levels 2, 3, and 4
  • NVQs/SVQs in Information and Library Service are also available at Levels 2, 3, and 4

Career Path

Archivist Assistant
Archivist
Senior Archivist
Head Archivist
Archives Manager
Records Manager
Information Governance Officer
Data Protection Officer
Researcher
Curator
Museum Director
Digital Archivist
Digital Preservation Specialist
Library Assistant
Librarian

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an archival assistant do?

An archival assistant in the UK organizes and arranges archival and manuscript material in appropriate orders, performs routine procedures to preserve the materials, labels manuscripts folders and containers, and compiles listings of materials in collections.

What qualifications do I need to be an Archivist?

You'll need a degree and postgraduate training to be an Archivist in the UK. Most degree subjects are accepted, but it may be useful to have a degree in history or information science.

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