Guide to Becoming a Supervisory Archivist at the Smithsonian
The Smithsonian Institution stands as the world's premier research and museum complex, dedicated to the increase and diffusion of knowledge. We are currently seeking a highly skilled Supervisory Archivist to join the Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage (CFCH). This position offers a unique chance to manage the Ralph Rinzler Folklife Archives and Collections, influencing the future of cultural heritage preservation.
Job Responsibilities
As a Supervisory Archivist, your day-to-day will involve:
- Leading the arrangement and description of diverse media including audio, film, and digital files.
- Directing archival registration and cataloging procedures.
- Developing project timelines and goals based on SAA standards.
- Collaborating with the CFCH Advancement team to write grants and secure funding.
- Mentoring and managing staff members in a collaborative, research-oriented environment.
Comparison: Standard Archivist vs. Supervisory Archivist
| Feature | Standard Archivist | Supervisory Archivist |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Collections Processing | Strategic & Operational Leadership |
| Personnel Management | Individual Contributor | Direct Supervision & Mentorship |
| Scope | Tactile Preservation | Project & Budget Oversight |
Requirements
- Education: Relevant Bachelor's degree with specific archival/history coursework.
- Experience: Specialized experience at the GS-12 level or higher.
- Competencies: Mastery of audio/digital preservation and organizational management.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $121,785 to $158,322 per year, commensurate with federal GS-13 grade standards.
Benefits
Employees enjoy a robust benefits package including health, life, and accident insurance, a comprehensive retirement savings plan, and generous leave policies.
Application Tips
- Stick to the two-page resume limit.
- Quantify your experience with specific examples.
- Clearly label all volunteer work.
If you are a leader in archival science with a passion for folklore, we encourage you to apply. This is a chance to define how the world remembers our musical and cultural history.
Why This Supervisory Archivist Job Matters
Shape the cultural legacy of the nation. The Smithsonian Institution is seeking a visionary Supervisory Archivist to lead the preservation of our world-renowned music and folklore collections.
Supervisory Archivist Job Overview
The Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage (CFCH) at the Smithsonian Institution is looking for a dedicated Supervisory Archivist to oversee the Ralph Rinzler Folklife Archives and Collections. This pivotal role involves managing archival treatment, preservation, and descriptive standards for one of the most significant ethnographic collections in the world. As a leader, you will guide a team in cataloging and protecting priceless audio and cultural media, ensuring that our shared history remains accessible for future research and public education.
Requirements for Supervisory Archivist
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Bachelor's degree in archival science or a degree with at least 18 semester hours in archival science, history, or government, plus 12 hours in related fields
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 federal level
- Proven experience working with audio collections and at least two additional media types (photos, film, video, or digital materials)
- Ability to obtain and maintain a security background investigation
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959
- Ability to manage personnel in a museum, historical, or cultural environment
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Archivist
- Advanced degree in archival studies, ethnomusicology, or folklore
- Proven track record in securing grant funding and donor relations
- Experience developing institutional archival policies and digital preservation strategies
- Demonstrated ability to lead large-scale, complex documentation projects
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health, life, and accident insurance options
- ✓Comprehensive retirement programs
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Federal holidays
- ✓Flexible Spending Account eligibility
- ✓Potential for recruitment incentives
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Archivist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Archivist Job
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Ensure your resume details specific dates (month/year) and hours worked for each position.
- Log in to the official federal jobs portal to initiate your application.
- Upload required documents, including unofficial transcripts and proof of veteran status if applicable.
- Complete the online assessment questions provided during the application flow.
- Submit your final package before 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must be exactly two pages or fewer; longer documents may lead to automatic disqualification.
- Focus on describing your actual impact rather than copying language from the job description.
- Clearly denote if your experience was paid or unpaid, including volunteer efforts.
- Check your application status regularly through your online profile dashboard.
- Verify that your uploaded transcripts show your name and the name of the institution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit a paper application?
Paper applications are generally only accepted under specific circumstances and require prior approval from the Office of Human Resources.
What is the focus of the Ralph Rinzler Folklife Archives?
The archive focuses on the documentation and preservation of international traditional music, folklore, and ethnomusicology.
Are relocation expenses covered?
The Smithsonian does not pay for relocation expenses, though recruitment incentives may be authorized at their discretion.
What are the primary responsibilities?
Managing archival collections, securing funding through grants, and supervising staff.
Is a security clearance required?
No, but a background investigation is mandatory.
Job from Smithsonian Institution
The Smithsonian is not just a collection of museums; it is an engine for discovery. By joining our team, you contribute to a mission that protects the rich cultural history of music, folklore, and humanity. You will be based in Washington, D.C., working at the intersection of history and modern preservation technology.