Careers with Shorefront

Lead Archivist

Status: Full-Time, 5 Year Grant Funded Position, with Possibility of Extension
Salary: $65,000-$68,000. Monthly health insurance stipend available

Shorefront Legacy Center (2214 Ridge Ave, Evanston) is an Evanston-based archival institution dedicated to illuminating the rich tapestry of Black history on Chicago’s suburban North Shore. Founded on the three core principles — Collect, Preserve, and Educate — we aim to create a dynamic space for reflection and growth focused on elevating Black histories. Currently housed in the basement of Sherman United Methodist Church, Shorefront’s collection consists of over 1000 linear feet of documents, photographs, moving images, and ephemera. As an active community archive, Shorefront serves the community as a site for research and preservation as well as an institutional partner in local and international initiatives. Recent projects include the historic designation of a former segregated school in Evanston (at threat of being redeveloped), the establishment of city-wide African American Heritage Sites, and an extensive research project laying the groundwork for Evanston’s trailblazing reparations legislation.

Position Description:

The Archivist is responsible for the access to, professional care, daily management, and maintenance of Shorefront’s archives including its organization, preservation, and storage. The Archivist refines, implements, and maintains archival policies and procedures regarding processing, documenting and accessing archival collections. The Archivist supports ongoing efforts to add to Shorefront’s collections, including acting as an organizational representative to spread awareness of Shorefront’s archives.

Major Tasks:
  • Review current donation processes and procedures, including collection policy, deed of gift, accessioning and deaccessioning guidelines, etc.
  • Implement new or revised policies and procedures as needed.
  • Work with Executive Director regarding donors and donations.
  • Create finding aids using DACS and increase collection accessibility on-line.
  • Update previous finding aids as needed.
  • Respond to reference requests.
  • Evaluate and make recommendations regarding collections preservation needs.
  • Train and supervise professional staff, interns, and volunteers.
  • Coordinate loans.
  • Plan for possible move of archives into new or improved space. (Date TBD).
  • Provide public tours and present to community groups.
  • Recommend and implement possible archival content management system.
  • Assist and collaborate with Executive Director on creation, development, and execution of public programs and exhibits.
  • Provide content for website, publications, and outreach efforts.
  • Perform other related duties and responsibilities as required or assigned.

Minimum Requirements, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • M.A. or M.L.I.S. in Archives, Library Science, Museum Studies, or related field
    with formal training in archives management and preservation or commensurate
    experience.
  • Three years of Archives experience.
  • Knowledge of archival collection, preservation, and processing standards and
    trends.
  • Supervisory experience in any setting.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality in all professional matters.
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate orally and in writing with staff, board
    members, vendors, and the public.
  • Project management and organization skills, in addition to attention to detail.
  • Ability to set goals, priorities, and work independently, as well as part of a team.
  • Use of Microsoft Office suite or other similar products.
  • Able to sit, stoop, or stand and able to lift heavy items/boxes of 35lbs.
  • Visual acuity and ability to work at a computer.

Desired Qualifications:

  • Experience with ArchivesSpace or another collection management system.
  • Knowledge of records management principles.
  • Experience with or knowledge of donor relations.
  • Demonstrated ability to curate in-person and on-line exhibits.
  • Experience working on projects or collections related to African American history.
  • Familiarity with oral history or interviewing skills.
  • Knowledge or experience working with born digital records.

Working Conditions:

  • Generally work indoors.
  • Occasional weekend and evening work.
  • Must be able to use stairs to access Shorefront.

Application Instructions:

Apply by October 4 with resume, cover letter, and the name and contact information for three professional references. The position closes October 18. Travel reimbursement available for final, in-person interviews.

Contact Information:

For questions, please contact Laurice Bell, Shorefront Executive Director, at laurice@shorefrontlegacy.org.