Archives Digital Assistant

The Archives Digital Assistant supports the digitization and preservation of unique historical materials held in the seminary's Special Collections & Archives. Working under the supervision of the seminary librarians, the student assistant will scan, process, and help organize archival materials to improve access for researchers, faculty, and the public.

This is an excellent opportunity for students interested in library science, history, public history, information science, or museum studies to gain hands-on experience in archival practice.

Duties and responsibilities

Scan photographs, manuscripts, maps, newspapers, and other archival materials using flatbed and overhead scanners according to established standards

• Inspect scanned images for quality and perform basic image corrections using software such as Adobe Photoshop or similar tools
• Rename, organize, and transfer digital files following departmental naming conventions and folder structures
• Assist with basic metadata entry in the library's collections management system
• Handle fragile and rare materials safely and in accordance with preservation guidelines
• Assist with physical processing tasks such as re-housing, foldering, and labeling as needed
• Communicate progress and flag any issues (damage, misfiled items, etc.) to supervising library staff

Required

• Currently enrolled student
• Attention to detail and ability to follow precise, multi-step procedures
• Ability to sit for extended periods and handle materials with care 
• Reliable and self-directed with good time management skills

Preferred:

• Interest or coursework in history, library science, information science, or a related field
• Prior experience with scanning equipment or digital file management
• Familiarity with archival or library terminology

Working conditions:

• This is a Temporary, part-time, non-exempt position.
• 10-15 hours per week are expected, and the position should last approximately 3-4 months. 
• Shifts are scheduled during regular library hours, Monday–Friday.
• Work is performed on-site in the Special Collections & Archives digital scanning or library work room. 
• May involve working with dusty or fragile materials. 
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be required to sit, stand, walk, reach, and carry boxes of archival material.
• Ability to lift 20 lbs is required.

Westminster Theological Seminary hires only personnel who belong to a Protestant evangelical church and subscribe to Biblical orthodoxy (belief) and orthopraxy (practice). Employees shall affirm their agreement with the historic, trinitarian Christian faith as expressed in the Apostles’ Creed. Otherwise, Westminster Theological Seminary is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to providing equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals, except as specifically allowed by federal and state law, and basing employment decisions on merit, qualifications and training. Westminster Theological Seminary does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion (except as religion is a bona fide occupational qualification), sex, national origin, age, disability or any other classification protected by law.

In accordance with the above paragraph, all employees are required to sign Westminster Theological Seminary's Community Life Policy affirming their commitment to Christian belief and practice as described in the policy.

This is intended to be an accurate presentation of this position. There may be duties and accountabilities that will be presented to an incumbent of this position that are not included in this position description. Position descriptions are subject to on-going changes so as to ensure the organization operates effectively.