Company Description
Rotra Retrieval connects professors, students across all levels of higher education, researchers, government professionals, and independent scholars with physical archival materials that are not available online. We specialise in locating, digitising, and delivering high-quality scans of primary source documents from archives and institutions across the UK.
To date, we have supported more than 200 clients worldwide with their research projects.
Role Description
We are seeking a detail-oriented Research Assistant to join us on a flexible, freelance basis across the London area.
In this role, you will support research projects by professionally scanning and photographing archival documents in libraries, archives, museums, and higher education institutions. You will be responsible for producing high-quality digital reproductions, maintaining accurate records, and managing materials with care and precision.
The position involves travelling to various institutions in London and, on occasion, elsewhere in the UK. You will work independently while collaborating closely with the Rotra Retrieval team to ensure projects are completed efficiently and to a high standard.
Key Benefits
- Valuable CV experience in a research-focused role supporting projects for international institutions, including Harvard University and Yale University
- Practical, hands-on experience working in archival and research environments
- Flexible, project-based freelance work that fits around your schedule
- Performance-based earning potential
- Travel expenses reimbursed
Skills & Experience
- No prior archival experience needed
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong research skills and confidence using digital tools and technology
- Ability to produce high-quality, consistent scans and photographs
- Meticulous attention to detail
- Strong organisational and time management skills
- A background in history, the humanities, or social sciences is preferred
Pay & Compensation
- Freelance position paid on a project-by-project basis
- £0.07 per image (with scope for increased rates based on experience and performance)
- Average output is approximately 300 pages per hour (~£21 per hour), with potential to exceed this based on efficiency
- Travel expenses covered