Position Title: Archives Intern
Department: Fine Arts - UAMA
Department Website Link: htts://artmuseum.arizona.edu/
Location: Main Campus – Archive of Visual Arts
Address: 1014/1018 E. 6th St. Tucson, AZ USA
Archive Description:
Located on the University of Arizona campus, the AVA is a research branch of the UA Museum of Art
(UAMA). The AVA collects and preserves artists’ papers and materials that support the study of creativity and
the motivations that inspire individual artists to do their best work.
Established with a founding collection from preeminent space artist Robert McCall, the AVA facilitates the
preservation and research of materials that document the creative process of individual artists. These materials
include sketchbooks, diaries, correspondence, audio-visual media, photographs, and other ephemera.
Position Highlights: In accordance with the direction of the Archivist, the Archives Intern will implement core
archival functions of the Archive of Visual Arts. Core archival functions will include arrangement and
description of backlogged collections, reference and access services and collections cataloging. The archives
intern will implement and follow best practices and standards for preservation and processing set forth by the
Society of American Archivists. Functioning in a strategic nature, the archives intern will demonstrate strong
organizational and analytical skills, sound judgement, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and an
aptitude for both independent and collaborative work.
Duties and Responsibilities:
• Implement general knowledge of archival theory, methodology and practice appropriate for a variety of
records (paper, photographic materials, obsolete media, audio-visual content, both analog and digital).
• Process and catalog donations and compile finding guides in the Museum’s PastPerfect database system
and MSWord.
• Facilitate reference services and the use of library and archives collections working directly with
patrons, students and faculty as needed.
• Reporting any maintenance and security issues to the Archivist as needed.
• Create box and call number labels and catalog unprocessed library donations.
Minimum requirements:
• Enrolled in a History, Art History, Museum Studies, LIS program or related field.
• Must be highly organized with strong attention to detail and self-motivated.
• Knowledge of MS Office applications with an emphasis in Word and Excel.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Intermediate to advanced computer skills.
• Ability to effectively manage multiple responsibilities and follow directions.
Preferred requirements:
• Enrolled in an ALA accredited MLS or archival certificate program.
• Background in History or related field with an interest in archival management.
• Experience with traditional and electronic collections management.
• Experience in manuscript and archives processing.
• Proven knowledge of standard archival practices and procedures.
• Collections management systems experience, especially PastPerfect software.
• Knowledge of digital collections preservation standards and practices.
Working Conditions:
This job requires physical labor that involves reaching, bending, stooping, and lifting heavy boxes and
oversized containers up and down ladders and overhead.
Full Time/Part Time: Part Time (8-9 hours per week)
Job Category: Cultural Institutions Internship
Benefits Eligible: Not Eligible
Compensation Type: This position offers a $1,000 stipend per semester. To receive course credit for this
internship, applicants must make appropriate arrangements with their academic program and/or advisor.
Application Deadline: Open until filled
Review Begins: April 29, 2024
Contact Information for Candidates:
Sara Swayden, Archivist
saswayden@arizona.edu
(520) 621-1124
Documents Needed to Apply:
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae is required.
• Any supporting documentation that shows special interest in archives (e.g., a cover letter) or knowledge
of archival practices (e.g., reference letters) are optional.
Special Instructions to Applicants:
Submit all application documents to saswayden@arizona.edu and cc millero@arizona.edu