fed2civ

GS-1420 Archivist Transition Guide

Explore how your federal experience as a Archivist (GS-1420) translates into civilian opportunities — including salary comparisons, transferable skills, certifications, and top employers.

GS Level Mappings

Understand how your GS level aligns with common corporate roles, responsibilities, and compensation. This helps frame your experience in terms that civilian employers recognize.

GS Level Group Corporate Titles Responsibilities Salary Range
1-4 Archive Assistant, Records Management Technician, Junior Archivist Assist in the processing of archival materials, maintain accurate records of collections, support digitization efforts, and perform basic research under supervision. $35,000 - $50,000
5-7 Archivist, Records Manager, Information Governance Specialist Manage the acquisition and preservation of archival materials, implement record keeping policies, provide reference services, and support the accessibility of archival collections. $50,000 - $70,000
8-9 Senior Archivist, Digital Asset Manager, Collections Manager Oversee archival projects, develop and implement archival standards, collaborate with other departments to ensure proper archival practices, manage digital archives, and guide junior staff. $70,000 - $90,000
10-11 Lead Archivist, Archival Program Director, Senior Records Analyst Direct complex archival initiatives, establish policies and procedures for records management, serve as a subject matter expert, and coordinate training for staff on archival practices. $90,000 - $110,000
12-13 Chief Archivist, Director of Archives, Head of Records Management Strategize and oversee the entire archival program, manage substantial budgets, liaise with executive leadership, and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements related to records retention. $110,000 - $140,000
14-15 Vice President of Records Management, Senior Director of Archival Services, Chief Information Officer (Archival Focus) Lead high-level archives initiatives across divisions, influence organizational policy on information governance, advocate for resource allocation, and establish innovation in archival practices. $140,000 - $180,000
SES Executive Director of Archival Programs, Senior Vice President, Knowledge Management, Chief Data Steward Oversee all archival activities organization-wide, design strategic vision and leadership for information management, interact with stakeholders at a board level to make policy decisions on data governance and archiving practices. $180,000 - $220,000

Transferable Skills

Highlight the skills you've developed in federal service that directly apply to private sector roles. These core strengths help you stand out in interviews and on resumes.

  • • Research and analytical skills: Ability to conduct thorough research and analyze complex information is invaluable in various civilian positions, such as data analyst, librarian, or research consultant.
  • • Organizational skills: Expertise in organizing and categorizing large amounts of information can translate well into project management, administration, or operations roles.
  • • Attention to detail: The precision required for archival work is beneficial in roles such as quality assurance, compliance auditing, or data management.
  • • Communication skills: Strong written and verbal communication is essential for drafting reports and presenting findings, which is applicable to roles in public relations, communications, or teaching.
  • • Preservation and conservation methods: Knowledge of archival preservation techniques can be useful in museum positions, historical preservation jobs, or in libraries.
  • • Technical proficiency: Familiarity with archival software, databases, and digital preservation methods can be applicable to IT roles, database management positions, and record-keeping jobs.
  • • Collaboration and teamwork: Experience working with diverse teams and stakeholders is valuable in roles requiring collaboration across departments or organizations, such as project coordinator or team lead.
  • • Problem-solving skills: Ability to identify issues and develop effective solutions is crucial in any business setting, particularly in management or operational roles.

Certifications & Education

Explore certifications and academic paths that enhance your value in the civilian job market. These credentials can bridge gaps and validate your expertise to employers.

  • Certified Archivist (CA)

    The Certified Archivist (CA) certification is a highly recognized credential that demonstrates professional competence in archival management and practices. Achieving this certification can provide an advantage in the civilian sector by validating one's expertise and knowledge in archival work, making the individual more competitive for positions in museums, libraries, and private sector collections.

  • Digital Archives Specialist (DAS)

    The Digital Archives Specialist (DAS) certificate focuses on managing digital materials and preserving them for future generations, which is increasingly relevant as organizations transition to digital formats. This certification enhances job prospects in civilian roles by showcasing an ability to handle digital curation, a critical skill as more institutions seek to preserve their digital assets.

  • Master's in Library and Information Science (MLIS)

    A Master's in Library and Information Science (MLIS) provides a comprehensive education on information management, including archival practices, which is crucial for archivists. Having an MLIS degree can open doors to higher-level positions in federal, state, and local archives, as well as roles in private sectors devoted to information management.

  • Certified Records Manager (CRM)

    The Certified Records Manager (CRM) certification indicates specialized knowledge in records management and information governance, which relates closely to archival work. This credential can enhance career opportunities by demonstrating expertise in managing both physical and digital records, skills highly sought after by organizations in various industries.

  • Project Management Professional (PMP)

    The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification equips archivists with essential project management skills, which are vital for overseeing archiving projects and processes. This certification can benefit individuals in civilian roles by ensuring they can effectively coordinate complex archiving initiatives and work collaboratively across different departments.

  • Archives Leadership Institute

    The Archives Leadership Institute focuses on developing leadership skills specifically tailored for professionals in the archives sector. Completing this program can aid individuals in civilian roles by preparing them to take on managerial positions and influence key decision-making processes in archival settings.

Typical Employers

See which companies and industries commonly hire professionals with your background. Use this insight to focus your job search and tailor your applications.

  • University Archives
  • Public Libraries
  • Historical Societies
  • Museums
  • Corporations with archival needs
  • Non-profit organizations focused on history or preservation
  • Research institutions
  • Cultural heritage organizations
  • Record management companies
  • Government contractors specializing in archival services

Career Transition Advice

Get practical strategies to navigate the shift from federal to private sector work. Learn how to present your experience and avoid common transition pitfalls.

  • Identify transferable skills: Highlight your skills in organization, data management, and preservation techniques, which are valuable in many industries including education, museums, and corporate sectors.
  • Tailor your resume: Focus on quantifiable achievements in your federal role, such as projects that improved archival processes or increased accessibility to records, to appeal to civilian employers.
  • Network within your desired field: Attend industry conferences, join professional organizations related to archives and records management, and connect with former federal colleagues who have successfully transitioned into civilian roles.
  • Consider additional certifications: Obtaining certifications such as Certified Archivist (CA) or Digital Archives Specialist can enhance your qualifications and make you more competitive in the civilian job market.
  • Research potential employers: Look for organizations that values archivists, such as non-profits, universities, and corporations, and understand their specific needs and the role of archivists in their operations.

Industry Trends

Stay informed on how your field is evolving and where opportunities are growing. These trends can guide your next steps and help you future-proof your career.

  • 📈 Increased demand for digital preservation skills due to the shift from physical to digital archiving methods.
  • 📈 Growing need for archivists who can manage and analyze big data, as organizations seek to leverage large datasets for decision-making.
  • 📈 Emergence of artificial intelligence and machine learning in archival processes, requiring proficiency in technological tools and software.
  • 📈 Heightened focus on accessibility and inclusivity in archival practices, prompting organizations to seek professionals who can ensure diverse representation and accessibility of materials.
  • 📈 Expansion of remote work opportunities leading to more flexible hiring practices and the ability to serve a wider range of institutions beyond local geographic confines.

General Transition Advice

Transitioning from a GS-1420 Archivist role in the federal government to a private sector job can be a significant change, but with the right mindset, preparation, and strategies, you can successfully navigate this journey. Here are some key areas to focus on:

1. Mindset Shifts

  • Embrace Flexibility: The private sector often values adaptability and quick decision-making. While federal roles can be process-driven and bureaucratic, private companies may require you to think on your feet. Cultivate a mindset that is open to change and willing to take calculated risks.
  • Value of Profit vs. Service: Understand that the private sector often focuses on profitability and efficiency. This doesn’t mean you should abandon your values, but you will need to position your experience in a way that emphasizes how your skills can contribute to an organization's bottom line.
  • Ready for Competition: The private sector is typically more competitive. Be ready to market yourself proactively and engage with others in a way that showcases your uniqueness and highlights your accomplishments.

2. Translating Federal Experience

  • Use Private Sector Language: Federal job descriptions often use specific jargon such as "government regulations" and "compliance measures." When translating your experience for private sector roles, focus on transferable skills such as:
    • Project Management: Frame any projects you led or contributed to in terms of outcomes achieved, timelines managed, and stakeholders engaged.
    • Research and Analysis: Highlight your ability to analyze data and inform decision-making, which is highly valued in private organizations.
    • Communication Skills: Mention how you’ve effectively communicated complex information to diverse audiences, a critical skill for any role.
  • Quantify Achievements: Use metrics or qualitative results to describe your achievements. Instead of saying “managed archives,” say “oversaw the organization of over 10,000 archival documents, improving retrieval times by 30%.”

3. Resume Tips

  • Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume for each job application. Research job descriptions and use keywords to ensure your resume catches the attention of hiring managers and applicant tracking systems.
  • Focus on Relevant Skills: Highlight skills that are directly applicable to the private sector, such as project management, digital archiving, or data preservation tools that are also used in corporate settings.
  • Professional Formatting: Keep your resume clean, professional, and concise. Use bullet points for clarity, and limit your resume to one or two pages.
  • Include a Summary Statement: Start with a compelling summary that encapsulates your expertise and your career objectives.

4. Interview Preparation

  • Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with the company’s mission, culture, and recent news. This will help you articulate how your background aligns with their needs and how you can add value.
  • Practice Behavioral Questions: Prepare for behavioral interview questions that ask about your past experiences. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
  • Demonstrate Initiative and Enthusiasm: Show your interest in the role and company by asking insightful questions and sharing what excites you about a potential career there.
  • Showcase Adaptability: Be prepared to discuss instances where you adapted to changes or learned new skills quickly in your federal role. This shows you can thrive in a dynamic environment.

5. Networking Strategies

  • Leverage LinkedIn: Update your LinkedIn profile with your new focus. Connect with former colleagues, and other professionals in your target industry. Participate in discussions and share relevant content.
  • Join Professional Organizations: Consider joining associations related to your fields of interest. They often have valuable networking opportunities, events, and local chapters.
  • Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals in the roles or industries you’re targeting. Ask for informational interviews to understand better how they transitioned from federal service to the private sector and for any tips they may have.
  • Attend Industry Events: Look for conferences, workshops, or local meetups that pertain to your areas of interest. Engaging with others in person can develop lasting professional relationships.

6. Continuous Learning

  • Consider Further Education or Certifications: If applicable, look into courses or certifications that can enhance your skill set, particularly in areas that are hot in the private sector like digital management, data analytics, or project management methodologies.
  • Stay Current with Industry Trends: Engage with blogs, newsletters, or podcasts that keep you updated on trends in the industries you're exploring. Showing that you are aware of current trends can be an asset in interviews.

Conclusion

Transitioning to the private sector is a journey that requires self-reflection, adaptability, and proactive effort. Your federal experience has equipped you with a unique set of skills that can be a significant asset in the private sector. Approach your job search with confidence, focus on translating your experience effectively, and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. Remember, you are not just leaving a job; you are moving toward a new set of possibilities!