Officer: Archivist- University of the Free State x1
Position Details
- Job Title: Officer: Archivist (Post Level 11)
- Job ID: 6527
- Institution: University of the Free State (UFS)
- Division: Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Studies
- Department: Library and Information Services
- Campus: Bloemfontein Campus
- Location: Bloemfontein, Free State
- Employment Type: Permanent
- Occupational Level: Semi-Skilled
- Starting Date: As soon as possible
- Closing Date: 20 July 2026
Job Description
The Officer: Archivist will contribute to the preservation, management, and accessibility of the University’s archival collections. The role includes implementing digital preservation strategies, organising and describing archival materials, maintaining archival standards, facilitating archival training, and supporting teaching, learning, and research through effective records and information management.
Key Responsibilities
Digital Archives and Preservation
- Implement the University’s Digital Preservation Strategy.
- Preserve digital and analogue archival materials for long-term access.
- Ensure archival collections remain accessible for future teaching and research.
- Apply Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for digital archiving activities.
Archival Management
- Arrange, appraise, and describe archival records according to recognised archival standards, including ISAD(G) and ISAAR(CPF).
- Manage both digital and physical archival collections.
- Maintain metadata and archival documentation.
- Support effective archival repository preservation practices.
Teaching, Learning and Research Support
- Contribute to teaching, learning, and postgraduate research through archival services.
- Integrate digital archives into teaching and research activities.
- Collaborate with academic faculties on archival and digital heritage initiatives.
Training and Development
- Develop and present training workshops on:
- Records management
- Digitisation
- Metadata
- Archival standards
- Promote best practices in archival management across the University.
Collaboration and Academic Engagement
- Work closely with faculties to integrate archival resources into curricula and research projects.
- Support interdisciplinary research through effective access to archival collections.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must have:
- Bachelor’s Degree or B.Tech Degree (NQF Level 7) in Archival Studies or a related field.
- Minimum of two (2) years’ relevant experience working with archival materials or within a digital archive environment.
Recommended Qualifications and Experience
Preference will be given to candidates with:
- Honours Degree or Postgraduate Diploma (NQF Level 8) in a Digital Archive-related field.
- Minimum of three (3) years’ experience in a digital archive environment.
- Knowledge of archival systems and archival description standards.
- Knowledge of the Provenance Principle.
- Experience within a Higher Education environment.
- Knowledge of university systems, policies, and procedures.
- Membership or registration with a recognised professional body.
Required Competencies
Results Orientation
- Ability to set high standards and achieve goals.
- Persistence in completing tasks and overcoming challenges.
Strategic Thinking
- Strong analytical and organisational skills.
- Excellent attention to detail.
Business Acumen
- Ability to follow policies and procedures.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
- Knowledge of:
- Metadata standards
- Archival standards
- Archive inventories and finding aids
- Archival policies and procedures
- Preservation and preventative conservation measures
Leadership
- Ability to take initiative and provide guidance.
- Strong teamwork and collaboration skills.
Relationship Building
- Good negotiation and influencing skills.
- Strong interpersonal and communication abilities.
Salary
Annual remuneration package (including benefits):
- R464,881.91 – R585,070.51 per annum
Salary will be determined based on the available budget, qualifications, and relevant experience.
Employee Benefits
Eligible employees may receive:
- Pension scheme
- Medical aid scheme
- Group life insurance
- Housing allowance
- Annual leave and sick leave
- Service bonus
- Study benefits
(Benefits are subject to University policies and conditions.)
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Copies of qualifications.
- SAQA evaluation (for foreign qualifications, if applicable).
- South African ID or passport (for foreign nationals).
- Confirmation of employment from the current or most recent employer (external applicants only).
- Proof of professional body registration (if applicable).
Incomplete applications will not be considered.