State Archives Internship

Job Description

Non‑merit internship. Candidates must follow the instructions in the “To Apply” section. Positions exempt from Iowa Department of Administrative Services – Human Resources Enterprise screening and referral requirements.

Invite students enthusiastic about Iowa’s history, public service and information accessibility to join our team. Work alongside professional archivists to organize, preserve, and improve access to historical and government records that serve researchers, agencies, and the public.

Interns gain hands‑on exposure to archival practices, historical preservation methods, and records cataloging processes that enhance discoverability and stewardship of Iowa’s official records.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

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 (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

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.