Manager Reference Services

The Access and Public Engagement Branch is the public face of National Archives of Australia delivering access to the collection online and through our research centers, access examination, reference and description services, education and public programs, exhibition, events, publishing, marketing and media activities.

Reference Services consists of two client focused teams that: provide strategic direction and oversight of the National Reference Service in an increasingly digital environment comprising; onsite and online Reference Services to assist a diverse range of researchers, the community and government agencies to access the national archival collection; development and delivery onsite, online and offsite of programs to education and connect a range of communities and groups including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to the collection;; and co-ordination of the National Archives’ volunteer program.

Under limited direction the main duties of the role are to:

• Manage, supervise and build the capacity of a small team providing onsite and online services to researchers and clients,
• Assist National Archives’ clients and researchers to access the national collection by responding to:
  • complex reference inquiries, and
  • escalated, sensitive or difficult issues relating to the use of the collection.
• Apply effective communication, research and analytical skills by contributing to the development, implementation and review of strategies, policies and procedures that support the delivery of quality Reference Services in an increasingly digital environment,
• Develop and maintain effective professional relationships with internal and external stakeholders and represent and promote National Archives in a range of public engagement activities,
• Apply the principles of APS Values, Code of Conduct, workplace diversity principles, work health and safety and participative management within a work and team environment and
• Promote and apply the National Archives’ Vision, Mission and Commitments as expressed in Strategy 2030 and "Our Values".

Tertiary qualifications, experience in archives or cultural heritage collection related fields and/or membership or eligibility for membership of the Australian Society of Archivists or other relevant professional organizations, is essential to this role.

National Archives of Australia (National Archives) provides leadership in best practice management of the official record of the Commonwealth and ensures that Australian Government information of enduring significance is secured, preserved and available to government agencies, researchers and the community.

Our vision: Australia’s cultural identity and democracy are strengthened by connecting people with the evidence of Australian Government activities and decisions.

We operate in a complex, challenging and changing environment requiring professional and robust risk management. We support a positive risk culture where risks are discussed regularly and either accepted or actively managed to prevent or reduce their impact. The National Archives recognizes that the factors that generate risks can also create opportunities, particularly in our rapidly changing digital environment.

National Archives is committed to:

• service excellence
• leadership
• innovation
• responsibility
• collaboration

National Archives is also committed to developing the capability and expertise of our staff, we offer a Studies Assistance Program that supports staff to achieve individual goals as well as increasing their capacity to help achieve the National Archives’ strategic objectives. Our Health and Wellbeing program encourages and supports a healthier workplace and healthy lifestyle changes for employees.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the role you must be an Australian citizen. If you are selected, you will be required to successfully undergo a pre-employment check and be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance at a Negative Vetting two (NV2) clearance level

How to apply

You need to apply through our e-recruitment system.

Your application will need to include:

• the names and contact details of at least two referees, one of whom should be a current supervisor.
• your current resume.
• statement (1000 words maximum), describing how your skills, knowledge, and experience/qualifications would enable you to perform the duties of the role taking into account the “Performance Expectations” at the relevant classification and the National Archives’ Vision, Mission and Commitments as expressed in Strategy 2030 and "Our Values".