About the role
Federal Work Study required: Work-Study (FWSA) eligibility during Fall/Spring semesters is required. Work-Study employment is effective August 25, 2026 – May 14, 2027.
Working hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday. For more information about the Albert & Shirley Small Special Collections Library, please visit http://small.library.virginia.edu/
Main duties:
- Organize and re-house collections and enter the information into the ArchivesSpace database, or any other platform the student is trained to use.
- Transfer digital files with archival tools at a basic level.
- May also participate in packing/unpacking of collections, creating collection inventories, labeling folders, photo-documenting digital media, and making photocopies.
- Material retrieval: The student assistant will be trained in how to properly retrieve manuscript, university archive, and rare book materials for patron requests.
- Additional duties may include shifting boxes and special projects.
This is a part-time position (up to 10 hours a week) paying $16.71 per hour, and is available to undergraduate and graduate Federal Work Study students beginning August 25, 2026 with the position ending May 14, 2027.
This position requires a minimum commitment of 7 hours per week, and the ability to adhere to a strict schedule. The temperature in the work area is maintained at below 65 degrees Fahrenheit to better preserve the collections, so employees should dress accordingly.
Passing of a background check is required for this position.
Please include a resume with your application. A cover letter is strongly encouraged.
Qualifications:
Strong sense of self-motivation, and strong analytical skills. Critical and open-minded thinking. Interest in history, photographs, digital records, and personal papers. Experience using the Microsoft Office suite. Critical Ability to lift 40-pound boxes occasionally.
Data entry and/or experience working with databases. Ability to handle rare and special materials with care. Excellent organizational skills, good communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to complete tasks with a high level of accuracy. Ability to multi-task and finish tasks in a timely manner, and ability to work independently as well as closely with others.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience working in a special collections library or archive, or any library work experience. Experience with reading 18th, 19th, and or 20th century hand-written documents including cursive; familiarity with archival principles and practices. Familiarity with the Library of Congress Classification system. Familiarity with U.S. and Virginia history, or American literature. Clear and legible handwriting. Foreign language skills a plus.
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.
Aplyr's read
The University of Virginia offers a blend of rigorous academics and public service, attracting students and staff committed to impactful education and community involvement.
What's promising
- •Strong emphasis on public service and community engagement enhances educational experience.
- •Diverse student wage roles provide flexible employment opportunities for students.
- •Renowned for its historic campus and strong academic reputation.
What to watch
- •Limited public information about career advancement opportunities for non-academic staff.
- •High competition for student positions may limit job availability.
- •Some roles are temporary or seasonal, affecting job stability.
Why University of Virginia
- •Founded by Thomas Jefferson, offering a unique historical perspective.
- •Charlottesville location provides a picturesque setting with rich cultural heritage.
- •Commitment to public service is deeply embedded in its institutional mission.
Aplyr’s read is generated by AI from public sources. Was it useful?
About University of Virginia
The University of Virginia is a public research university located in Charlottesville, Virginia. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, it is known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to public service.
