State Archives Internship

Full Job Description

This is a non-merit, internship position. Candidates must follow the instructions in the "To Apply" section. Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services - Human Resources Enterprise.

Archives Collections Intern – State Archives of Iowa

The State Archives of Iowa invites students who are enthusiastic about Iowa’s history, public service, and information accessibility to join our team as an Archives Collections Intern.

This internship provides the opportunity to work alongside professional government archivists to organize, preserve, and improve access to historical and governmental records that serve researchers, agencies, and the public.

Interns will gain hands-on exposure to archival practices, historical preservation methods, and records cataloging processes that directly enhance the discoverability and long-term stewardship of Iowa’s official records.

Goals and Key Responsibilities

• Assist with a focused relocation project by transferring a small portion of archival materials from temporary storage to permanent, preservation-appropriate housing.

• Process and catalog a micro-collection of state government records using established archival standards and classification systems.

• Support labeling, metadata entry, and documentation efforts that improve searchability and retrieval accuracy.

• Learn and apply proper handling and preservation techniques for historical and government documents.

• Observe and participate in day-to-day archival workflows such as intake procedures, shelving strategies, and collection organization.

• Collaborate with archivists to understand records lifecycle management, retention schedules, and compliance considerations.

• Contribute ideas or suggestions that improve organization, accessibility, or preservation processes.

• Other duties as assigned in support of departmental initiatives or special projects.

Experience and Exposure Opportunities

• Records processing and archival cataloging

• Preservation and conservation fundamentals for physical materials

• Metadata creation and information organization systems

• Government records management and compliance awareness

• Research and analytical skills related to historical documentation

• Professional communication and teamwork within a public-sector cultural institution

• Portfolio-ready deliverables such as processed collections, catalog entries, or documentation of relocation and preservation efforts

Interns will also receive mentorship from experienced archivists and gain insight into career pathways in archives, libraries, museums, records management, and public history.

Preferred Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in History, Political Science, Library Science, Public History, Archival Studies, or a related social science or humanities field.

• Demonstrated interest in archival work, libraries, historical preservation, or information management.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively while maintaining accuracy, professionalism, and attention to detail.

• Strong organizational, analytical, and time-management skills.

• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs. and safely use step ladders when assisting with collection relocation or shelving.

Why Join Us

• Gain Practical Experience – Develop real-world archival, research, and information-management skills that translate into careers in libraries, museums, government, and cultural institutions.

• Receive Professional Mentorship – Work closely with dedicated archivists who are invested in knowledge sharing, skill development, and career exploration.

• Make a Meaningful Impact – Play a direct role in preserving Iowa’s historical record and improving public access to information that supports transparency, education, and civic understanding.

• Develop Tangible Work Products – Leave with resume-ready accomplishments and portfolio materials that demonstrate your contributions to archival organization, preservation, and accessibility.

E-Verify and Right to Work
The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees’ rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov.

Qualifications

Applicants for positions in this class must be currently enrolled students in a degree program at an accredited educational institution, as determined by the Iowa Department of Administrative Services – Human Resources Enterprise.

For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description.