As an archivist you would manage and preserve collections of historical records and documents. You would work with collections of all types, from books, photographs and maps to audio, film and digital files. If you love helping people get access to the information they need and have a keen interest in conserving records, then this could be the job for you.

Tasks:

• storing materials correctly and keeping them in good condition
• identifying, dating, cataloguing and indexing archive materials
• helping people to use the archives
• making records available to users in formats such as photocopies, microfiche and online
• carrying out research
• giving talks and organising presentations, displays and exhibitions
• negotiating the buying or donation of archive material and assessing their importance.

Key skills:

• an interest in history and the preservation of information
• good communication and 'people' skills
• the ability to understand complex issues and explain them clearly
• a logical and highly-organised approach
• the ability to work both independently and in a team
• good IT skills
• an interest in applying new technology to the work
• accuracy and attention to detail
• good research skills.

Average Salary (2013):

United Kingdom: £22,000. With experience this could rise to £28,000 or more.

Qualifications and training required:

To become an archivist you would need a degree. You would also need to gain a postgraduate qualification in archives and/or records management which is recognised and accredited by the Archived and Records Association (ARA).

The following degree subjects could be useful:

• history
• information science
• library studies
• modern or ancient languages.

Most degree subjects would be accepted, as long as you can show a keen interest in history and have an understanding of the importance of documents as historical evidence. A degree and background in science or information management may help you to apply for work in some specialist services like film archives.

Source: https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk