Brief Description of PSU/School/Dept
Portland State University is Oregon’s most affordable public research university, located in the heart of one of America’s most dynamic cities. Our mission to “let knowledge serve the city” reflects our dedication to turning ideas into action — in Portland and around the world. The city is our campus, giving students unmatched access to career connections, a vibrant cultural scene and hands-on learning experiences with hundreds of community partners.
More than 20,000 students from all backgrounds bring diverse perspectives to our classrooms and campus life, from the tree-lined Park Blocks to the bustling Urban Plaza and state-of-the-art science labs. We are proud of our world-class faculty, groundbreaking research and international reputation for excellence in sustainability, community engagement and innovation.
Position Summary
Portland State University Library’s Special Collections and University Archives seeks a Temporary Project Archivist to process the Earl Blumenauer Collection to professional standards. The collection, comprising approximately 175 linear feet of documents, publications, photographs and audiovisual materials, reflects the storied and impactful career of Earl Blumenauer across more than five decades of public service, including 28 years as a member of the U.S. House of Representative.
Working in consultation with Special Collections and University Archives staff, the Project Archivist will survey, appraise, preserve, arrange, and describe the collection. The position will also be responsible for coordinating and tracking box locations; drafting finding aids and other research tools as appropriate; providing regular status reports and updates; and engaging with Congressman Blumenauer’s team as needed for historical context and document identification.
Minimum Qualifications from Classification
- Bachelors degree plus two years of current (within 5 years) experience in a Library; OR ,
- 4 years of current library experience;
- AND , advanced proficiency in multiple library specific computer applications, e.g., integrated library systems, database applications, institutional repository; content management systems.
- Some positions may also require in-depth knowledge of specialty area(s), e.g., original cataloging, complex copy cataloging, serials management, ILL management, government documents, image resources, music.
Additional Minimum Qualifications for this Position
- Experience processing physical archival collections to professional standards
- Demonstrated understanding of archival theory and practice
- Excellent oral and written communications skills
- Ability to work well independently and collaboratively, as needed
- Ability to lift up to 40 lbs. and up to 25 lbs. overhead without accommodation
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience processing large-scale archival collections with multiple formats
- Experience processing political papers or government and public policy records
- Experience drafting finding aids and other discovery tools and research guides for archival collections
- Master’s degree from an ALA-accredited program
Key Cultural Competencies
Creates an environment that acknowledges, encourages and celebrates differences.
Functions and communicates effectively and respectfully within the context of varying beliefs, behaviors, orientations, identities and cultural backgrounds.
Seeks opportunities to gain experience working and collaborating in diverse, multicultural, and inclusive settings with a willingness to change for continual improvement.
Adheres to all PSU policies including the policies on Prohibited Discrimination & Harassment and the Professional Standards of Conduct.
Environmental Stewardship
Contributes to a culture of environmental stewardship, practices resource conservation, and actively works toward achieving long-term sustainability goals.
Work Days/Hours
To be determined, within Monday-Friday, 8am - 5pm
Total Compensation Range & Benefits Statement
This is a fixed term position with a maximum of 1040 hours within a 12 month period. Salary range is $21.91-$23.88/hour commensurate with experience. The work of this position will be conducted primarily onsite with limited opportunities for remote tasks.
This is a temporary position and is not benefits eligible.