About the role
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work alongside a dedicated group of History Centre Assistants and get up close with an extraordinary variety of unique historical documents.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. Work methodically assessing items, handling fragile documents with care, and following established preservation standards.
Responsibilities include:
* Producing and processing digital images
* Organising files for upload to the digital preservation system
* Ensuring accurate retrieval and reshelving of records
* Collaborating closely with colleagues and liaising with external clients
About you
We are seeking a candidate with exceptional attention to detail, able to identify inaccuracies in file naming and image quality, and 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.
Further Information
For further discussion about the role please contact Jessica Pollard at jessica.pollard@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or telephone 01305 224960.
Position Details
This is a part‑time role (22.5 hours per week). There will be limited opportunities for working from home by prior arrangement with your line manager, but the majority of work will be onsite at Dorset History Centre.
Benefits
You will be part of a team that works together for a better Dorset.
Access to a range of benefits and support.
Receive training and development opportunities to help your career progress.
Equal Opportunities
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation where different skills, perspectives, and backgrounds strengthen both our council and the communities we serve.
We welcome applications from everyone and are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. If you declare a disability and meet the essential criteria for the role, we will offer you an interview. We also want our recruitment process to be accessible; if you need any reasonable adjustments, just let us know on your application.
This role is UK‑based, and we will need to confirm your right to work as part of the appointment process.
If you’re passionate about making a difference, we’d love you to join us. Find out more about how to apply.
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