Archivist Associate

The Kansas Geological Survey (KGS) Archive, located at the main KGS office in Lawrence, contains over 135 years of KGS-related materials: papers, publications, reports, photos, maps, and geologic data. The KGS is seeking to hire a project-specific Archivist under the direction of the Libraries, Outreach, and Business Operations (LOBO) Associate Director. The individual in this position will lead a focused initiative on the deaccession, organization, and preservation of our existing physical collections located within the archive. This role will primarily support the re-evaluation of our holdings, ensuring that materials are appropriately transferred to suitable archives, when necessary, reorganized within our storage facilities, and assessed for digitization. The Archivist Associate will collaborate closely with internal departments and external partners to streamline the management and accessibility of KGS's extensive geological, historical, and scientific records.

This is an 18-month position with the possibility of an extension subjected to available funding.

50% - Deaccessioning and Transfer:

• Conduct a systematic review of KGS collections to determine materials suitable for deaccessioning.
• Identify appropriate external repositories or archives for materials better suited to their collections, handling transfers in compliance with legal and organizational standards.
• Develop and document procedures for deaccessioning, ensuring transparency and adherence to archival best practices.
• Ensure that records transferred for long-term preservation are in a format or condition that supports continued accessibility.

40% - Collection Organization and Preservation:

• Review and organize remaining archival materials at all hierarchical levels by category, usage, and priority, preparing them for long-term storage within KGS's designated facilities.
• Oversee the physical relocation of retained collections to ensure logical and accessible placement.
• Implement conservation measures to protect the longevity and integrity of KGS records, especially those unique to the institution.
• Develop and implement procedures for maximizing space.
• Process the backlog of records in accordance with university and institutional guidelines.

10% - Digitization and Scanning Preparation:

• Evaluate physical materials for potential digitization, prioritizing high-demand or at-risk records.
• Flag materials for scanning, coordinating with the KGS Libraries and/or IT team to ensure timely and efficient digitization.
• Maintain an inventory of digitization needs and support the creation of metadata to enhance digital accessibility.
• Implement strategies for long-term preservation of digital files ensuring accessibility to emerging technologies.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to push rolling bookcases in confined area, climb step ladders, and lift 15-20 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to work in storage areas, capable of working with old documents which may be dusty, musty, or moldy, with or without reasonable accommodation.

In addition to the online application, the following documents are required to be considered for this position:

1. Cover letter addressing the required and preferred qualifications and position requirements.
2. Resume.
3. Contact information for three (3) professional references.

Only complete applications will be considered.

Application review begins Monday, February 24, 2025. For consideration, please apply no later than Sunday, February 23, 2025.

For technical questions, contact Nikki Potter, nikki-potter@ku.edu.

For HR questions, contact Annette Delaney, adelaney@ku.edu, 785-864-2152.

47,000-55,000, depending on qualifications and experience.

8-5, M-F

Monday February 24, 2025

Monday March 3, 2025