Position
Salary

How much does a Archivist make?

The average salary for a Archivist is $62,206 per year in the US.

An archivist helps preserve and manage important documents and records. This job often involves working in libraries, museums, or government agencies. Archivists can find jobs in many places. The salary for an archivist can vary. Most archivists earn between $33,121 and $138,667 per year. This range shows the different levels of experience and locations. The average yearly salary for an archivist is $62,206.

Here are some common salary ranges for archivists:

  • Top 10% of archivists earn more than $129,072 per year.
  • Top 25% earn more than $81,096 per year.
  • Half of all archivists earn between $42,716 and $81,096.
  • Bottom 10% earn less than $33,121 per year.
The amount an archivist earns depends on their experience, the type of employer, and the location of the job.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Archivist?

Job seekers looking for Archivist positions can find excellent opportunities in cities like Seattle, WA, and Boston, MA. These locations offer some of the highest average salaries, with Seattle topping the list at over $95,000. Atlanta, GA, and Chicago, IL, also provide strong compensation packages, making them attractive choices for professionals in this field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Archivist jobs, highlighting Seattle, WA with the highest at $95,141 and Baton Rouge, LA with the lowest at $59,857.
  1. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $95,141
    Seattle offers a dynamic environment for those preserving history. Major institutions like the Seattle Public Library seek professionals to manage their archives. The city's tech companies also need archivists to manage their growing digital and physical records.
    Find Archivist jobs in Seattle, WA


  2. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $91,540
    In Boston, archivists play a key role in managing the rich historical records of prestigious institutions like Harvard University and the Massachusetts State Archives. The city’s emphasis on history makes it a great place for those passionate about preserving the past.
    Find Archivist jobs in Boston, MA


  3. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $82,907
    Washington, DC is a hub for archivists with its numerous government archives and historical societies. Archivists here support institutions like the National Archives, dealing with important national records. The city's role as the nation’s capital provides unique opportunities.
    Find Archivist jobs in Washington, DC


  4. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $77,639
    Los Angeles presents diverse opportunities for archivists. Major media companies like Sony Pictures and film archives need experts to manage their collections. The city’s vibrant film history offers exciting work for those in the field.
    Find Archivist jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  5. Atlanta, GA
    Average Salary: $73,336
    Atlanta offers a growing demand for archivists in both corporate and academic settings. Institutions like the Georgia Historical Society and companies in the tech sector seek skilled archivists. The city’s expanding industries create a dynamic job market.
    Find Archivist jobs in Atlanta, GA


  6. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $72,371
    Chicago has a rich need for archivists to manage the city's extensive historical records. Major institutions like the Chicago Public Library and the Art Institute of Chicago provide excellent opportunities. The city’s diverse industries also seek archivists to handle their records.
    Find Archivist jobs in Chicago, IL


  7. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $64,555
    Portland’s focus on sustainability and history makes it an ideal place for archivists. Local universities and historical societies offer various roles. The city’s commitment to preserving its heritage provides a rewarding work environment.
    Find Archivist jobs in Portland, OR


  8. Nashville, TN
    Average Salary: $60,833
    Nashville combines rich history with a growing tech scene, creating unique opportunities for archivists. Institutions like the Tennessee State Museum and local universities seek professionals. The city’s vibrant culture also offers diverse archival work.
    Find Archivist jobs in Nashville, TN


  9. Ann Arbor, MI
    Average Salary: $60,206
    Ann Arbor is home to the University of Michigan, providing ample opportunities for archivists. The university’s vast collections require skilled professionals. The city’s academic focus offers a supportive environment for archival work.
    Find Archivist jobs in Ann Arbor, MI


  10. Baton Rouge, LA
    Average Salary: $59,857
    Baton Rouge offers a mix of historical and academic opportunities for archivists. Institutions like Louisiana State University need experts to manage their archives. The city’s rich history provides a unique setting for archival work.
    Find Archivist jobs in Baton Rouge, LA

What are the best companies a Archivist can work for?

Accenture stands out for offering the highest average salary for archivists at $136,900. Job seekers interested in the field can find attractive opportunities here. The University of Michigan also provides a solid average salary of $61,318 for archivists. This shows that top-tier academic institutions can be rewarding career choices. Ancestry offers an average salary of $40,500 for archivists, making it a viable option for those seeking entry-level positions.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Archivist jobs, highlighting Accenture with the highest at $136,900 and Ancestry with the lowest at $40,500.
  1. Accenture
    Average Salary: $136,900
    Accenture offers diverse roles for archivists, focusing on managing and preserving digital and physical records. They value archivists who can support their global clients. Accenture operates in many countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and India. This makes it a top choice for those seeking international experience.


  2. The University of Michigan
    Average Salary: $61,318
    The University of Michigan provides enriching opportunities for archivists. They work on preserving academic records, manuscripts, and digital archives. The University of Michigan is located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and is known for its strong academic environment. Archivists here enjoy a dynamic work setting with access to rich historical materials.


  3. Ancestry
    Average Salary: $40,500
    Ancestry offers exciting roles for archivists who manage genealogical records and family histories. They focus on maintaining and organizing large databases of historical documents. Ancestry operates globally, with key offices in Lehi, Utah, and Provo, Utah. This company is ideal for those passionate about family history and genealogy.

How to earn more as a Archivist?

Archivists play a key role in preserving history. They manage important documents and records. To earn more, archivists can take steps to enhance their skills and qualifications. This can open up higher-paying opportunities. Working in different types of institutions can also impact earnings. For instance, some sectors pay better than others.

Professional development is crucial. Archivists who get additional certifications can increase their earning potential. Staying updated on the latest technology and tools used in archiving can also lead to better job offers. Negotiating salary and benefits during job offers can make a difference. Understanding the job market and what employers value can help archivists earn more. Networking with colleagues and attending industry events can provide new opportunities and insights.

Here are five factors that can help an archivist earn more:

  1. Advanced Education: Earning a master's degree in archival science can lead to higher salaries.
  2. Certifications: Obtaining certifications from recognized organizations can boost earning potential.
  3. Technical Skills: Proficiency in digital archiving tools and software can make an archivist more valuable.
  4. Experience: Working in the field for several years can lead to higher-paying positions.
  5. Specialization: Focusing on a specific area, like digital archives or rare documents, can increase demand and salary.

Currently 119 Archivist job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Archivist in the US?

Learn what a Archivist does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Archivist today.
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Archivist
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