Job Posting: Head of the University Archives & Special Collections
Emily Porter-Fyke
TITLE: Head of the University Archives & Special Collections
JOB SUMMARY:
The DiMenna-Nyselius Library at Fairfield University is seeking a visionary and collaborative Head of the University Archives & Special Collections to join our team. This leadership position plays a pivotal role in advancing the visibility, impact, and responsible stewardship of institutional memory at Fairfield University. As we continue to grow in national prominence, this position will ensure the integration of professional archival standards and innovative technologies that support acquisitions, long-term preservation, and sustainable digital access to our collections.
The Head of the University Archives & Special Collections provides strategic direction and management for all archival operations, working closely with Library Leadership and University partners to develop spaces that ensure appropriate environmental conditions, security, and capacity for future growth. This position serves as an advocate and spokesperson for the Archives & Special Collections in teaching, learning, community engagement, and fundraising initiatives, while supervising and mentoring staff to build a culture of excellence and innovation.
This position establishes collection development priorities that strengthen institutional memory and scholarly value, champions innovative technologies that enhance discoverability and user experience, and builds strong partnerships with Advancement, Marketing & Communications, Alumni Relations, and academic units. This position also guides digital preservation strategies, monitors emerging tools including AI-assisted approaches to archival description, and advocates for inclusive practices that broaden the representation of University histories.
If you are passionate about preserving and activating institutional memory, advancing inclusive and ethical archival practices, and connecting collections to teaching, research, and community engagement, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.
Work schedule allows for 1 hybrid workday per week during the academic year, and additional opportunities during the summer and intersession periods.
Review of applications will begin on April 17th. The position will remain open until filled.
To apply, please visit our campus employment web site, found here.
To apply, please visit our campus employment website. Load a resume or CV first, then upload supporting documents including a cover letter and the contact information for at least three references at the bottom of the third page under the "My Experience" section where it says to upload a Resume/CV. You will be unable to edit your application, so please have all documents available before applying.
REPORTS TO: Dean of the Library & University Librarian
SUPERVISION OF PERSONNEL: University Archivist & Special Collections Librarian
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
· Graduate degree in Library & Information Science (MLS or equivalent) from an ALA-accredited program with specialization or certification in archival practices.
· Five or more years of progressively responsible experience in university archives and special collections environments.
· Strong grounding in archival theory and practice including metadata standards.
· Experience with developing or overseeing technology-enabled archival initiatives (e.g., born-digital preservation, repository systems).
· Demonstrated supervisory experience with the ability to nurture staff development and professional growth.
· Strong leadership and decision-making skills, including the ability to lead organizational change, inspire innovation, and delegate responsibility appropriately.
· Ability to lead in a shared decision-making environment.
· Demonstrated ability to collaborate across the organization.
· Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
· Ability to create effective goals and objectives and help others do the same.
· Excellent organizational and time management skills.
· Strong oral and written communication skills and a commitment to service.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
· Second Master's in subject-specific field, or equivalent experience.
BENEFITS:
Fairfield University offers a competitive benefits package that supports the health, well-being, and growth of our employees and their families:
• Medical, dental, vision, life & disability coverage
• Retirement plan with University contributions
• Tuition benefits for employees, spouses & dependents
• Competitive paid time off & holidays
• Employee Assistance Program
• Vendor discounts & special offers
• Professional development opportunities
• Access to library, RecPlex & dining facilities
• Free or discounted tickets to arts & NCAA events
ABOUT DIMENNA-NYSELIUS LIBRARY:
The DiMenna-Nyselius Library empowers the members of our community in the development of their whole person, including their intellectual, psychological, spiritual, and professional exploration; their growth as critical thinkers; their endeavors as knowledge creators; and their quest for lifelong fulfillment. Recently, the Library updated its strategic plan to match the University's ambition to grow in national prominence and reach. Read more about our strategic plan here: https://www.fairfield.edu/library/about/mission/DNL_Strategic_Plan.pdf
ABOUT FAIRFIELD UNIVERSITY:
Founded in 1942, Fairfield University is a modern, Jesuit Catholic University rooted in one of the world's oldest intellectual and spiritual traditions. With campuses located in Fairfield, CT, Bridgeport, CT, and Austin, TX, we strive to create a workforce that is rich in skill, knowledge, and pride in our work. Members of the Fairfield University community exhibit mutual respect, compassion, and inclusivity, aspiring to be a welcoming environment representative of an ever-changing and diverse global populace. As our University rises in national prominence, we are committed to fostering a healthy workplace and lifestyle for our employees. At Fairfield, the future is filled with opportunities as limitless as your potential, and they all begin with you.
FAIRFIELD UNIVERSITY'S DIVERSITY STATEMENT:
Members of the Fairfield University community are committed to respecting and valuing one another, finding the common good rooted in us all, and working collaboratively to achieve our potential as a modern Jesuit Catholic institution. We aspire to be an inclusive, welcoming community that is representative of an ever-changing and diverse global populace. The Jesuit tradition of cura personalis – care for the whole person – animates our mission. We educate men and women who serve for and with others within the rich tapestry of cultures that comprise our contemporary world.
By encouraging dialogue, communication, community partnerships, and a culture of understanding, we foster in our students, faculty, and staff the capacity and desire to build a better world through productive citizenship and societal stewardship.