Archivist Position: Zayed University, UAE

The Library and Learning Commons Department seeks University Archivist who is responsible for overall management of the University’s young archive collections.  The successful candidate will lead the collection-development efforts to acquire the most significant materials of permanent historical value for documenting the history and functions of Zayed University.  The Archivist will also be responsible for shaping the management, digital access and preservation of the materials collected. The Archivist will apply professional standards to the processing, arrangement and preservation of records; oversee creation of finding aids and creation of MARC catalog records for OCLC; and create records in MARC and ISAD(G) format for in-house and web databases.

Responsibilities:  Policy Advisor/Administrator.  Recommend, implement and maintain the collection policy for university records having archival value.  Recommend best practices regarding the development of both print and digital access to the records.  Oversee implementation of policy and levels of practice in university office.  Supervise a technician and student assistants.  Through the Dean, recommend policies regarding archival records to the university administration for approval.  Serve on department, college and University committees as needed to assist in development of matters benefiting the University.

Responsibilities: Records Management and Training.  Identify and transfer archival records from university offices.  Organize, process and preserve archival records.  Provide archival records management and preservation training to university offices and departments.  Contribute to planning of the future direction of the program.  Act as a leader, teacher, advisor, and facilitator for the Archives.

Requirements.  Understanding of the Arabic language.  MLS from an accredited library school or its recognized equivalent; or a graduate degree in history or other relevant discipline which includes archival training.  At least three years’ experience with demonstrated success as an archivist, curator of manuscripts, or special collections librarian, preferably in an academic or research library.  Familiarity with archival descriptive structure standards such as Dublin Core, MARC, EAD and ISAD(G).  Knowledge of rights administration and management issues for archival collections.  Knowledge of descriptive content standards and best practices.  Familiarity with Archivist Toolkit or other archival management software.  Experience in creating and maintaining archival finding aids online, including EAD encoding, working knowledge of XML, and familiarity with DACS, and LC cataloguing standards.  Broad knowledge of current technological applications for archival management and access.  Experience processing and cataloguing archival records.  Familiarity with preservation and conservation standards for archival and manuscript collections.  Experience creating and maintaining documentation of policy and procedures.  Evidence of effective project planning and management.  Demonstrated history of flexibility, creativity and a strong customer-service commitment.  Willingness to travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai.  Must show promise of advancing the mission of the University through scholarly or creative achievements.  Experience developing and deploying an online project from beginning to completion.  Demonstrated working knowledge of digital image file formats and software.  Knowledge of issues related to long term preservation of digital content.  Experience supervising staff and student assistants.  Knowledge of copyright issues in the digital realm.  Experience working with a consortium to develop a shared repository.   Experience working in a multi-cultural environment

Benefits.  The University’s benefits package is highly attractive; it includes a competitive, income tax-free salary in the United Arab Emirates, housing allowance, and annual vacation ticket.

To Apply.  In addition to completing the basics of the online application form http://www.zu.ac.ae/main/en/_careers/index.aspx, kindly attach a cover letter detailing your experience as it relates to the position, a current CV, and the names and contact details of three professional references.  While we appreciate all applications, you will be contacted only if you are selected for an interview.