Archivist

Job Summary

The Archivist shall be responsible to manage the Archives of the Jesuits in Malta, in accordance with the archiving policies of the Jesuits, which in turn are based on the best practice in the industry and policies of the Holy See. The Archivist shall report to the Head Archivist of the EuM Province who is based in Rome for policy and direction but is expected to generally work on his or her own initiative and drive.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Adopt the attitude of custodian of the archives of the Maltese Jesuits. These are primarily located in Naxxar but also include smaller collections in Jesuit residences at B’Kara, Msida and Mosta.

• Keep regular contact with, and take instructions from, the Head Archivist.

• Take the lead in the organisation, maintenance and administration of the archives of the Jesuits in Malta.

• Observe and implement archiving policies and procedures of the Euro Mediterranean Province.

• Develop a digital archival inventory that includes summary descriptions of the material in the archive. The structure of the inventory and the process to create it will be in accordance with the instructions of the Head Archivist to ensure that the inventory in Malta in aligned to the practice in the entire Euro Med Province.

• Create and affix appropriate labels on the archive files and folders in accordance with the industry practice. This process may require the affixing of temporary labels until the archives undergo any necessary re-organisation. At the end of such re-organisation, the temporary labels will be replaced by permanent ones.

• Replace the existing carton/paper files, folders, envelopes and jackets with appropriate acid-free preservation packaging, in accordance with the policy set out by the Head Archivist.

• Seek to conserve and, where necessary, treat appropriately the documents and artefacts stored in the archives. 

• Undertake to learn as much as possible on the history of the Jesuits in Malta since the context within which the archive material was originally created is essential information when making decisions on the archive material.

• Implement a policy of strict confidentiality such that no archive material is available to any person unless specifically authorised.

• Receive third-party researchers and help show them where to find the information they need. Take digital imagery on request by the researchers in accordance with EuM policy.

• Together with the Head Archivist, develop and implement a plan to digitise certain archiving material. 

• Assist in the process of storage and protection of electronic images and ensure safety of the digital archival patrimony. 

• Work closely with the Librarian of the Jesuits in Malta.

• When a Jesuit is deceased, assist in selecting documents and artefacts that should be transferred to the Archives, in consultation with the Head Archivist.

• Keep a track record of his/her working activities and tasks at the archives. This will include as a minimum an annual report and a set of notes that lists particular discoveries.

• Perform any other duties as may be requested from time to time.

Other requirements

Ready to use personal car to travel to Jesuit residences in Malta or to other locations in Malta related to the work

• Proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel 

• Basic knowledge of Italian

• Able to adapt to different work requirements

Type of employment

• Definite contract of 2-years duration

• 40 hours per week (if the candidate prefers, part time may also be an option provided it is not less than 30hrs/week)

Qualifications and experience

• A qualification in Archiving science issued by a University in Europe is a requirement for this post

• Experience in managing an archive would be considered an asset.

Please send your application by not later than 17th February 2025.