Archivist and Historian
About The Position
A private, multi-generational family office is seeking an experienced and highly discreet Archivist and Historian to organize, preserve, and thoughtfully steward decades of family and business history. This individual will lead the creation of a comprehensive archival system that protects historically significant materials spanning multiple business entities and three generations. In addition to building a strong archival foundation, this role will help curate a private museum-style space within the office where family members can engage with and learn from their legacy. This is a meaningful opportunity for a professional who values preservation, organization, and storytelling, and who approaches sensitive materials with care and sound judgment.
Requirements
- Minimum five years of professional archival experience, ideally with complex or high-value collections
- Demonstrated ability to independently organize and manage large archival projects
- Strong knowledge of archival standards and preservation best practices
- Experience working with mixed media collections
- Proven experience developing archival systems, inventories, and cataloging structures
- Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail
- Ability to manage a multi-phase project over an extended period
- High degree of professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment
Nice To Haves
- Master’s degree in Library Sciences, Archival Studies, Museum Studies, History, or a related field
- Experience with private collections, family offices, corporate archives, museums, or special collections
- Experience supporting exhibit development
- Familiarity with archival software and digital asset management systems
- Experience implementing digitization and digital preservation workflows
Responsibilities
- Conduct a thorough assessment of archival materials across multiple on-site locations
- Develop and implement a clear archival strategy aligned with long-term preservation goals
- Establish classification systems, cataloging standards, and organized storage frameworks
- Arrange, describe, and catalog materials in accordance with professional best practices
- Create inventories and documentation to ensure long-term accessibility and continued growth of the archive
- Implement best practices for handling and preserving paper records, photographs, audiovisual materials, artwork, and artifacts
- Recommend appropriate storage solutions, environmental controls, and archival supplies
- Oversee digitization efforts and digital preservation practices where appropriate
- Conduct periodic assessments and recommend improvements to ensure ongoing protection of materials
- Identify materials of historical importance for preservation and display
- Assist in planning and curating a private museum-style exhibition space within the office
- Provide thoughtful historical context and narrative structure to support the presentation of the family’s legacy
- Develop sustainable procedures and documentation to support long-term management
- Utilize archival software and digital asset management systems as appropriate
- Manage workflows and coordinate support staff or vendors if needed
- Advise leadership on archival priorities and long-term planning
- Handle confidential business and family records with the highest level of discretion
- Demonstrate professionalism, care, and respect for historically and financially significant materials
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
