Become an Archives Specialist: A Career at the National Archives
Are you passionate about history, organization, and public service? The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) invites you to help safeguard the records of the Federal Government. We are currently seeking an Archives Specialist to assist in the acquisition, management, and preservation of our nation's essential documents.
Job Responsibilities
As an Archives Specialist, your daily contributions will be vital to the operation of the facility. Key duties include:
- Accessioning and Processing: Managing the transfer of physical and legal custody of federal or court records.
- Record Maintenance: Implementing archival best practices to ensure the long-term preservation of documentation.
- Research and Reference: Utilizing NARA’s internal catalog and finding aids to assist the public and other agencies with information requests.
- Physical Stewardship: Maneuvering through archival spaces to organize, retrieve, and store records securely.
Comparison: Qualifications
| Feature | GS-07 Entry Level | GS-09 Full Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Req. | 1 Year at GS-05 | 1 Year at GS-07 |
| Education Path | Bachelor’s w/ GPA or 1 Year Grad | Master's or 2 Years Grad |
| Complexity | Foundational | Advanced/Technical |
Requirements
To be considered, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Assessment: Must complete the USA Hire competency-based assessment.
- Background: Must successfully complete a suitability investigation.
- Physicality: Ability to handle records stored up to 15 feet high and lift 50-pound boxes.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range from $51,283 to $81,553 per year. Beyond compensation, employees gain access to the federal benefits suite, which typically includes health insurance, retirement planning, and generous leave policies. NARA also promotes a healthy work-life balance through telework and flexible work schedule options.
Application Tips
- Be Precise: Your resume must clearly state the hours worked per week so HR can verify your experience levels.
- Mind the Limit: Keep your resume to exactly 2 pages; excessive length will not result in more visibility.
- Submit Early: Do not wait until the last minute, as you must complete online assessments after submitting your initial application.
If you want a career where you can see the tangible impact of your work, the National Archives is the place to be. Apply today to help us keep history alive.
Why This Archives Specialist Job Matters
Protect the past and shape the future—the National Archives is looking for dedicated individuals to help manage and preserve the nation’s most important records.
Archives Specialist Job Overview
The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) is seeking an Archives Specialist to join its team. This role is essential to the agency’s mission, involving the acquisition, preservation, and accessibility of federal records. You will work directly with archival holdings, helping researchers, federal agencies, and the public access critical historical documentation. This is an excellent opportunity for detail-oriented professionals to contribute to the stewardship of over 13 billion federal records while growing their careers in a supportive, federal environment.
Requirements for Archives Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Ability to complete a background investigation
- Registration with the Selective Service System (if applicable, for males born after 1959)
- Successful completion of the Personal Identity Verification (PIV) process
- Physical capability to handle records, including moving boxes weighing up to 50 lbs and working with ladders up to 15 feet
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-05/GS-07 level (depending on the grade applied for)
- Ability to meet the 52-week time-in-grade requirement for current federal employees
Preferred Qualifications for Archives Specialist
- Master's degree or graduate-level education in a related field
- Superior academic achievement in undergraduate studies (3.0 GPA or higher)
- Proficiency in archival software, database management, and metadata indexing
- Proven track record of providing high-quality reference and research services
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and advancement potential
- ✓Opportunities for telework and flexible scheduling
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
- ✓Stable career growth within a major federal agency
💡 How to Apply Archives Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Archives Specialist Job
- Log into your USAJOBS account or create a new profile.
- Preview the vacancy questionnaire before drafting your resume.
- Prepare a resume that details your work schedule, hours per week, and specific duties (2-page limit recommended).
- Upload your most recent performance appraisal (if applicable).
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for a link to complete the USA Hire assessment within 48 hours of the announcement closing.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly lists hours worked per week, as this is critical for calculating time-in-grade.
- Customize your resume to match the specialized experience requirements mentioned in the job description.
- Do not exceed the 2-page limit, as only the first two pages will be reviewed.
- Double-check that your performance appraisal is signed and dated within the last 18 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work remotely for this position?
This role requires on-site work due to the physical nature of record handling; however, the agency does offer telework opportunities consistent with official policy.
What physical requirements should I expect?
The role involves significant physical activity, including navigating catwalks, using rolling ladders to reach heights of 15 feet, and lifting containers weighing up to 50 pounds.
Is a security clearance required?
No, this position is designated as non-sensitive/low risk, though you must successfully pass a standard background investigation.
Job from National Archives And Records Administration
The National Archives is the nation's record-keeper. Our staff of dedicated professionals manages more than 13 billion records, providing the public with the tools to explore our collective history. Whether you are an experienced professional or looking to pivot your career, joining NARA offers the unique opportunity to work in a field where every task contributes to a historical legacy.