Careers · Archivists · California
Archivists in California
Archivists preserve and organize permanent records and historically significant documents for institutions like libraries, museums, and government agencies. They appraise materials for historical value, create systems for safekeeping, and help researchers access collections In California the median pay is $70,530 a year, 9% above the national median of $64,550.
$70,530median pay in California, per year
$53,200–$91,170middle half earn
1,160employed in California
$64,550U.S. median, for comparison
Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against archivists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against archivists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most hold a master’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Reading ComprehensionActive ListeningWritingSpeakingCritical ThinkingActive LearningComplex Problem SolvingService Orientation
Knowledge areas
History and ArcheologyEnglish LanguageCustomer and Personal ServiceComputers and ElectronicsAdministration and ManagementAdministrative
Full profile, interests that fit, certifications and training: Archivists.
Licenses and training in California
Archivists pay in other states
District of Columbia · $93,040Connecticut · $79,790Massachusetts · $78,180Rhode Island · $76,990Washington · $76,490Maryland · $76,440New York · $73,860New Jersey · $67,900Minnesota · $65,740Michigan · $63,890
Related occupations
CuratorsMuseum Technicians and ConservatorsLibrarians and Media Collections SpecialistsLibrary TechniciansBusiness Teachers, PostsecondaryComputer Science Teachers, PostsecondaryMathematical Science Teachers, PostsecondaryArchitecture Teachers, Postsecondary
Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against archivists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against archivists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 25-4011.00. Pay: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, California, annual.