About the role

The Collection Management Branch is responsible for transferring, storing, preserving and digitising the National Archives' collection so it remains accessible for future generations. The Branch develops policies and systems as well as provides services, undertakes research, and implements projects to ensure the care, management and accessibility of archival records. The Branch is also responsible for identifying information management requirements for Australian Government agencies to ensure Australian Government information assets (records, information and data) are created, collected and managed effectively.

The Collection Operations Section is responsible for securing and managing the National Archives’ archival collection and its storage environment in the Australian Capital Territory. The section is also responsible for facilitating the transfer of records into custody, billing agencies for storage services, managing projects, lending services for internal and external stakeholders, transfers, applying Machinery of Government changes and various national strategies, plans and programs.

Under general direction and working as directed, the main duties of the roles involve:

• Undertake the physical handling, retrieval and return of archival records and other routine activities as directed, including but not limited to:

• drive, load and unload the National Archives’ courier vehicle to deliver records and, if required, to deliver internal mail.
• assist in the physical management and location of records within the National Archives’ repositories as required.
• develop skills in managing the storage of records
• undertake manual handling tasks, such as lifting, moving and locating records
• accurately enter and retrieve data from electronic systems within established procedures and practices.
• perform minor preservation tasks, such as repackaging, staple removal, etc
• prepare routine documentation and correspondence using Microsoft Office (e.g. Word and Excel).

• Develop understanding of archival principles to ensure archival (analogue) records are appropriately housed and storage capacity is used efficiently.
• Work closely and productively with team members and colleagues.
• Ensure that Work, Health and Safety issues are identified, reported and monitored.
• Participate in section meetings and contribute to the development of processes and guidelines. 
• Participate in the National Archives’ change agenda.
• 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.
• Apply the National Archives’ Vision, Mission and Commitments as expressed in Strategy 2025-2030: Evolving National Archives and Our Values.

You must be willing and able to meet the inherent physical requirements of this role, including repetitive, sedentary, screen-based work and/or the ability to pack, sort, lift and relocate records in accordance with established work, health and safety practices and archival principles.

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 a Negative Vetting 2 clearance level.

Operational roles in this Section require physical fitness, more specifically the capacity to lift a stable weight of 7 kilograms to shoulder height readily. Positions that involve significant manual handling require a higher level of physical stamina and capability. You may be asked to complete a questionnaire, as part of the recruitment process, to substantiate your fitness for duty. This questionnaire will be provided to those short-listed for interview and provides an insight into the activities of the Section.

Applicants must also hold a current Australian driver’s license.

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 (750 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 2025-2030: Evolving National Archives and Our Values.