Archives Assistant

Who We Are

For more than 130 years, The Salvation Army has served people in need in communities across Canada and Bermuda. Building on our roots as a world-wide Christian church, each year we help more than 2 million people, providing necessities such as food, clothing and shelter. In addition, we support people experiencing unemployment, addiction and family challenges. We continually adapt and innovate to meet emerging needs and live out our mission, vision and values of hope, service, dignity and stewardship. As a faith- and values-based organization, we hire and serve people of all backgrounds and walks of life - there is a place for everyone to belong here.

Mission Statement

The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world.

Job Description:

Position Purpose: 

The Salvation Army Archives is seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Digitization Assistant for the 2026 summer term to support the ongoing preservation of its historical records. Reporting to the Director of Archives, this role exists to ensure the continued growth, maintenance, and long‑term sustainability of the Archives’ digitization project. The position also contributes to the organization by supporting broader archival initiatives and advancing the Archives’ strategic priorities. This role is partially funded through the Canada Summer Jobs program administered by Service Canada, and applicants must meet the program’s eligibility requirements. 

Key Accountabilities:  

• Digitize historical materials such as photographs, documents, and audio‑visual items to help make the Archives more accessible online. 

• Describe archival items by adding clear and accurate information (metadata) using established guidelines and standards. 

• Handle archival materials carefully by retrieving, refiling, and preparing items to support their long‑term preservation. 

• Work with Archives staff to help prepare materials for conservation, accessioning, and other collection‑care activities. 

• Create high‑quality digital images while checking for accuracy and consistency throughout the digitization process. 

• Edit digital images when needed to correct issues with older or damaged original materials. 

• Upload digitized files and related information into the Archives database to ensure records are organized and easy to find. 

• Assist with research tasks, social media and website updates, exhibits, presentations, and other projects that support public engagement. 

Education and Experience Qualifications: 

• Enrolled in a related undergraduate or graduate level program such as History, Archival Studies, Library Science, or a related discipline. 

• Experience in an Archive or Museum environment is a definite asset. 

• Interest in working with heritage, archival, or cultural collections. 

• Experience or enthusiasm for learning about digitization and preservation of historical materials. 

• Basic understanding of copyright and online privacy considerations (or willingness to learn). 

• Familiarity with digitization tools such as scanners and audio‑visual equipment. 

• Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office and platforms like Adobe Photoshop and social media. 

• High attention to detail when working with records and digital files. 

• Effective organizational and time‑management skills to handle multiple tasks. 

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively while interacting positively with staff, volunteers, and visitors. 

• Knowledge and familiarity with Salvation Army history, mission, administrative structure and terms is a definite asset 

To be eligible through YOUNG CANADA WORKS students must:  

• Be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident or have refugee status in Canada.  

• Be legally entitled to work in Canada (have a valid social insurance number).  

• Be between 16 and 30 years of age inclusively at the start of employment.  

• Be a high school, college, CEGEP, or university student.  

• Be registered in the YCW Candidate inventory.  

Please note: Non-Canadian students holding temporary work visas or awaiting permanent resident status are not eligible. The rate of $22.00 per hour for this role is partially funded through Young Canada Works. 

Compensation:

The target hiring range for this position is $17.60 to $20.01 with a maximum of $24.01.

Placement in the salary range will be based on factors such as market conditions, internal equity, and candidate experience, skills, and qualifications relevant to the role.

The Salvation Army will provide reasonable accommodation upon request. Please email Recruitment.Accommodations@salvationarmy.ca if you have a need for any accommodation and we will be pleased to discuss this with you.