Launch Your Career at the National Archives: Archives Technician Opportunity
Are you passionate about history, records, and government transparency? The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) is inviting motivated professionals to apply for the role of Archives Technician in College Park, Maryland. This role is a vital component of the agency's mission to safeguard over 13 billion federal records, ensuring they are preserved and accessible.
Job Responsibilities
As an Archives Technician, you will be responsible for:
- Conducting detailed evaluations of classified records.
- Determining document sensitivity and eligibility for public release.
- Applying agency declassification guidelines and waivers.
- Preparing records for public access in open-stack areas.
- Performing data entry and record management tasks.
Role Comparison
| Feature | GS-05 Entry Level | GS-06/07 Progression |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Requirement | Entry level/General | Specialized experience required |
| Complexity | Foundational tasks | Advanced analysis |
| Training | Initial skill building | Technical proficiency |
Requirements
To be considered, you must be a U.S. citizen and successfully pass a comprehensive background investigation. You must also be prepared to handle the physical aspects of the job, including lifting 50-pound boxes and climbing tall library ladders. A commitment to detail and integrity is non-negotiable, as you will be working with sensitive national security information.
Salary Overview
The position offers a competitive salary range of $46,610 to $67,543 per year. This scale is standard for the GS pay system, providing a predictable path for growth as you develop your skills and take on more responsibilities within the agency.
Benefits
NARA supports its employees with:
- Flexible work schedules to support work-life balance.
- Telework opportunities when the duties permit.
- Professional development resources.
- Standard federal employment benefits packages.
Application Tips
Your resume is your most important tool. Ensure it is concise (two pages or less) and explicitly lists your duties, dates of employment, and hours worked. Because this is a highly competitive process, take the time to answer the questionnaire thoroughly and complete all assigned assessments within the 48-hour window after the announcement closes.
Becoming an Archives Technician at the National Archives is a rewarding step toward a long-term federal career. By managing the nation's records, you contribute to a legacy that spans generations. Apply today and help us preserve our shared history.
Why This Archives Technician Job Matters
Launch a career preserving history at the National Archives and Records Administration in College Park, MD—where your daily tasks protect the integrity of 13 billion federal documents.
Archives Technician Job Overview
The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) is seeking a detail-oriented Archives Technician to join our team in College Park. This role is essential to the agency's mission of safeguarding federal history. You will conduct critical declassification processing, analyze sensitive records, and prepare documents for public access. This position offers a clear career path with promotion potential and the opportunity to work in a unique, mission-driven environment where your contributions directly support government transparency and historical preservation.
Requirements for Archives Technician
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Q sensitive / Top Secret security clearance
- Successful completion of a background investigation
- Ability to perform physical tasks including standing, walking, and lifting items up to 50 pounds
- Willingness to work on ladders up to 14 feet tall
- Successful completion of required drug testing
- Registration with the Selective Service System (if applicable)
Preferred Qualifications for Archives Technician
- Previous experience in records management or archival procedures
- Proficiency in analyzing complex policies and regulations
- Strong interpersonal skills for effective customer communication
- Experience in data entry and system-based information retrieval
- Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Flexible work schedules
- ✓Telework eligibility
- ✓Career development and training
- ✓Federal employee benefit programs
- ✓Opportunity for career advancement
💡 How to Apply Archives Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Archives Technician Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full announcement and prepare your resume (max 2 pages).
- Click 'Apply' to start the online questionnaire.
- Submit all required documentation, including transcripts if applicable.
- Receive and complete the USA Hire assessments within the required timeframe.
- Monitor your application status via your USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Tailor your resume to specifically match the specialized experience requirements listed in the announcement.
- Ensure your resume includes dates of employment (month/day/year) and hours worked per week.
- Do not wait until the deadline to submit, as virus scans for documents can take time.
- Complete all required assessments promptly, as they are a critical part of the ranking process.
- Preview the questionnaire before starting the application to understand the evaluation criteria.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the security clearance level for this position?
This position requires a Q sensitive and Top Secret security clearance.
Can I work remotely?
This position is located in College Park, MD, and is not remote. However, telework opportunities are available per agency policy.
What physical demands should I expect?
The role is largely sedentary but requires standing, walking, and the ability to lift boxes weighing up to 50 pounds, as well as working from 14-foot ladders.
How do I know if I am qualified?
Qualifications are based on a mix of education and specialized experience. Review the 'QualificationSummary' section of the posting to ensure your background aligns with the specific GS grade level you are applying for.
What happens after I apply?
You will be notified via the application system to take a series of online assessments. Success in these tests is crucial for your application to move forward.
Job from National Archives And Records Administration
The National Archives is the nation's record keeper. We preserve and provide access to documents that trace the history of the United States. Working at NARA means you are part of a team dedicated to public service, history, and accountability. Employees here enjoy a professional culture that values continuous learning, integrity, and teamwork.