Intern Archives Processing

The Henry Ford•Dearborn, MI

6d•$20•Onsite

About The Position

The Ford Foundation Equity Initiative (FFEI) Internship Program at The Henry Ford offers professional development, mentorship, and networking opportunities to diverse candidates interested in museum careers. The program aims to provide opportunities in museum work to emerging professionals from historically marginalized groups, encouraging them to explore their careers in new ways. Participants engage in bi-weekly professional development workshops on the Dearborn campus, which are mandatory. Interns also participate in an end-of-cohort survey. All candidates must have Wednesdays available due to programmatic requirements. The 15-week Winter 2027 internship runs from January 25 to May 7, 2027, with mandatory orientation on January 25. The Archives Processing Intern will help organize, describe, and preserve Edison Institute archival collections in preparation for The Henry Ford’s 100th anniversary. This role involves inventorying materials, preparing collection descriptions, improving storage, and updating catalog records, offering practical experience in archival processing and making institutional history accessible.

Requirements

Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a college or university program in history, English, information science, archival studies, or a related field
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Word and Excel
Familiar with archival practices and Describing Archives: A Content Standard (DACS)
Experience processing archival collections through coursework, volunteer work, or employment
Full Wednesday availability from 9am-5pm for required internship programming

Nice To Haves

Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
Clear writing skills and the ability to summarize historical materials accurately
Ability to follow project guidelines, work independently on assigned tasks, and seek guidance when needed
Interest in archival collections, preservation, and historical research

Responsibilities

Review archival materials and create detailed collection inventories under staff guidance
Help arrange materials according to established archival practices and project guidelines
Prepare finding aids that describe collection contents and help researchers locate materials
Rehouse archival materials to improve preservation, organization, and accessibility
Review work with Archives staff and incorporate feedback to maintain accurate and consistent documentation
Collaborate with the Archives and Library team and learn about related collections work
Participate in required internship orientation and professional development activities