City Archivist

City Auditor’s Office Job Announcement

City Archivist

Opens:                10/16/2023

Closes:                  11/6/2023

Salary Range:     $114,192.00-163,321.60 annually

About the position

The City Auditor is seeking an experienced professional and effective manager to serve as the City Archivist of Portland, Oregon. The City Archivist leads Archives and Records Management, a division of the City Auditor’s Office that ensures the City’s records are maintained and accessible the public. Other divisions include Audit Services, Ombudsman, and Operations Management. The mission of the Office is to ensure open and accountable government.

This position reports directly to the City Auditor, an elected position that is functionally independent from City Council. The City Archivist provides citywide leadership on archives and records management issues, including electronic records, implements Office-wide strategies and manages division budget and personnel. The position also manages the Portland Archive and Records Center (PARC) located on the Portland State University campus, including facility planning and maintenance.

About the division

The Archives and Records Management division issues guidance and sets policies for the City’s retention of records, general information management, and for the City’s historical records. It administers the City’s electronic records management and retention system known as TRIM and provides training and services to help City employees manage their records in accordance with Oregon’s public records laws.

The division provides reference services to City employees and the public, and outreach and education to strengthen understanding of public records laws, access rights, and the importance of government and historical records to the City, the community, and individuals. The historical records collection is extensive and contains a variety of formats dating back to 1851. The division also partners with community groups, heritage organizations, and individuals working on initiatives that connect local history with the community.

We are looking for a proactive, adaptive, collaborative person who has the knowledge and vision to lead the City as records management needs evolve and the City transitions to a new form of government. Successful candidates are passionate about public records and making information accessible to the community and are committed to serving and supporting all aspects of managing records throughout their lifecycle.

As the City Archivist, you will:  

• Plan, direct, and evaluate the work of a team of professionals, including coaching;
• Manage the overall direction and performance of a Division dedicated to archives and records management responsibilities;
• Establish and implement the Division’s Antiracist Results-Based Accountability plan;
• Manage and forecast the Division’s budget;
• Advise Bureaus/Offices and elected officials on public records and records management matters; direct and monitor training programs, establish policies and procedures regarding archives and records management
• Operate the Portland Archives and Records Center, including all aspects of managing a facility dedicated to records storage, security, and preservation;
• Direct the strategic citywide approach to managing electronic records.