Required for September 2026

Archives Operative

12-month fixed term contract

Full time equivalent salary circa £27,000 per annum, pro-rated for part time hours, plus benefits including generous contributory pension scheme, healthcare scheme and life assurance.

We are seeking to appoint an Archives Operative to support the effective management, preservation and development of the School’s Archive and associated collections. Working closely with the School Archivist, the successful candidate will assist with rehousing and preservation of archival materials, appraisal and cataloguing, digitisation, retrieval and handling of archival materials for internal use and researchers and assisting with enquiries and events.  All while gaining practical experience within a professional school archive environment.

The role is designed to provide appropriate preparatory experience for those intending to pursue graduate or postgraduate study in archive management or a related heritage discipline, although it would equally suit a candidate undertaking undergraduate or postgraduate studies alongside part-time employment.

The ideal candidate will have a genuine interest in history and documentary heritage, along with strong organisational skills and a high level of attention to detail. Good IT skills are essential, particularly in Microsoft Office, as is the ability to manage a varied workload and communicate effectively with a range of users. A proactive and flexible approach, combined with the ability to work both independently and as part of a small team, is key.

Previous experience in an archive, library, museum or similar heritage setting would be advantageous, as would familiarity with cataloguing standards, digitisation processes or historical research methods, although this is not essential.

The role can be worked as 3, 4 or 5 days per week, 7.5 hours per day. Some flexibility with daily starting and finishing times is required to fulfil the requirements of the role.

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Applicants must therefore be willing to undergo child protection screening and safer recruitment checks appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.  St Albans School is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and the creation of an inclusive environment for all employees. Employment selections are made according to suitability for the post, irrespective of background or protected characteristic.

The School reserves the right to make an appointment before the closing date, so early applications are encouraged.