Dorset History Centre is the principal archive repository and local studies collection for the county of Dorset, preserving over 1,000 years of history. As our Collections Assistant (Reprographics), you’ll play a key part in expanding public access to Dorset’s historic archives, digitising everything from fragile manuscripts to unique visual records. Working within a close‑knit, collaborative team, you’ll combine careful handling of delicate materials with technical precision to create high‑quality digital images for both internal projects and external clients. If you’re someone who values accuracy, enjoys hands‑on work with heritage collections, and takes pride in representing a service with professionalism, this is a chance to make a meaningful impact on how Dorset’s history is preserved and shared.
What’s In It For You
Join the Collections Care team at Dorset History Centre and under the guidance of the Archive Conservation Officer you’ll work alongside a dedicated group of History Centre Assistants and get up close with an extraordinary variety of unique historical documents. This role offers the rare chance to develop specialist skills in document handling and digitisation while immersing yourself in the stories, artefacts and archives that shape Dorset’s past.
What You Can Expect To Be Doing
This role centres on creating high‑quality digital images of historic archive material using DSLR photography and specialist editing software. You’ll work methodically to assess items for digitisation, handle fragile documents with care, and follow established preservation standards. Responsibilities include producing and processing digital images, organising files for upload to DHC’s digital preservation system, and ensuring accurate retrieval and re‑shelving of records. You’ll collaborate closely with colleagues and liaise professionally with external clients, contributing to the preservation and accessibility of Dorset’s archival heritage.
About You
We are seeking a candidate with exceptional attention to detail, able to identify inaccuracies in areas such as file naming and image quality, and with a strong willingness to develop new technical skills. You’ll be an organised, flexible team player with excellent interpersonal skills, capable of solving problems independently and working under pressure to meet deadlines.
Confidence in using a Digital SLR camera is essential, as is the manual dexterity required to handle archival material carefully and to professional standards, including lifting and carrying boxes, documents and volumes that may be heavy or cumbersome. Experience working with archive collections, handling delicate materials, and using image‑editing software such as Photoshop is highly desirable, as is familiarity with Collection Management Systems.
Please see the context statement for further information.
#J-18808-Ljbffr