Archivist

Overview

Analyses and documents records, and plans and organises systems and procedures for the safekeeping of records and historically valuable documents.

Skills

Most occupations in this unit group have a level of skill commensurate with a bachelor degree or higher qualification. At least five years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualification. In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification (ANZSCO Skill Level 1).

Tasks

• evaluating and preserving records for administrative, historical, legal, evidential and other purposes
• preparing record-keeping systems, indexes, guides and procedures for archival research and for the retention and destruction of records
• identifying and classifying specimens and objects, and arranging restoration work
• examining items and arranging examinations to determine condition and authenticity
• designing and revising medical record forms
• managing organisations' central records systems
• analysing the record-keeping needs of organisations, and translating these needs into record management systems
• maintaining computerised and other record management systems and record forms, and advising on their usage
• controlling access to confidential information, and recommending codes of practice and procedures for accessing records
• developing record cataloguing, coding and classification systems, and monitoring their use

Specialisations

• Film Archivist
• Legal Archivist
• Manuscripts Archivist
• Parliamentary Archivist

Related Occupations

• Gallery or Museum Curator
• Health Information Manager
• Records Manager