Digital Humanities Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the digital era, the focus on Digital Humanities Specialists has never been more profound.
As technology advances, the demand for skilled professionals who can understand, develop, and protect our digital humanities resources grows stronger.
But let’s delve deeper: What is truly expected from a Digital Humanities Specialist?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to comprehend the core of this role,
- A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of digital humanities,
You’re at the right spot.
Today, we present a customizable Digital Humanities Specialist job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career websites.
Let’s dive in without any delay.
Digital Humanities Specialist Duties and Responsibilities
Digital Humanities Specialists utilize their knowledge in humanities and digital technologies to analyze, interpret, and present humanities research in a digital format.
They typically work in academic or research settings and are critical in bridging the gap between technology and the humanities.
Their duties and responsibilities include:
- Developing, maintaining, and enhancing digital humanities projects and tools
- Analyzing and interpreting data from humanities research using digital technologies
- Assisting researchers and academics in the utilization of digital tools and methodologies in their work
- Conducting training sessions, workshops, and presentations on digital humanities tools and techniques
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to build digital platforms for humanities research
- Keeping up-to-date with emerging trends and technologies in digital humanities
- Applying and developing digital tools and methodologies to improve research in the humanities
- Advocating for the use of digital technologies within the humanities discipline
- Providing technical support to users of digital humanities tools and resources
Digital Humanities Specialist Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are in search of a dedicated Digital Humanities Specialist to join our team.
Your role will involve leveraging digital technologies to enhance research, teaching, and learning in the humanities.
The successful candidate will be responsible for supporting faculty, students, and staff by developing and implementing digital resources and tools for research and teaching in the humanities.
Ideal candidates are tech-savvy individuals with a background in humanities and a passion for applying digital tools to enhance knowledge in this field.
Responsibilities
- Collaborate with humanities scholars to identify digital solutions that support their work
- Design, build, and maintain digital humanities projects and resources
- Provide training and support to faculty and students in the use of digital humanities tools and methodologies
- Stay current with emerging trends and best practices in digital humanities
- Organize workshops and presentations on digital humanities topics
- Collaborate with IT staff to ensure the proper infrastructure for digital humanities projects
- Contribute to grant writing efforts for digital humanities initiatives
- Identify opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration in digital projects
Qualifications
- Demonstrated experience in digital humanities or a related field
- Knowledge of digital humanities tools and methodologies
- Strong technical skills, including experience with programming languages, databases, and web technologies
- Understanding of the research and teaching needs in humanities disciplines
- Excellent communication and training skills
- Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines
- Advanced degree in Humanities, Library Sciences, Information Technology or a related field
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Digital Humanities Specialist
- Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Some travel may be required for conferences or workshops.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Digital Humanities or relevant department head.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $100,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Digital Humanities Specialist Do?
Digital Humanities Specialists typically work in educational institutions, libraries, or cultural organizations, often in liaison with technology and IT departments.
Their primary role involves integrating technology with humanities disciplines such as literature, philosophy, history, and arts.
This involves creating digital archives, developing online resources, and using digital tools to analyze humanities data.
They play a crucial role in managing, curating, and preserving digital collections.
They also help in creating metadata for digital resources and maintaining databases to ensure easy access and usability of these resources.
Digital Humanities Specialists also conduct workshops and training sessions to educate students, faculty, and other users on how to use digital tools and resources effectively.
Moreover, they are responsible for project management, which includes planning, coordinating, and implementing digital projects in humanities.
These projects could range from creating interactive websites and virtual exhibitions to developing digital educational materials.
To stay updated on the latest trends and developments, Digital Humanities Specialists regularly participate in professional development activities, workshops, and conferences.
They may also contribute to research in the field, publish articles, and present findings at academic forums.
Digital Humanities Specialist Qualifications and Skills
A Digital Humanities Specialist should have a diverse set of skills and qualifications that not only encompass the technical side, but also the social and cultural aspects of the role, such as:
- Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities to examine and interpret digital and analogue resources from a humanities perspective.
- Technical skills in data analysis, data visualization, coding, and the use of digital humanities tools and software.
- Extensive knowledge of the humanities, including history, philosophy, literature, and the arts.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with a diverse range of individuals and teams, including academics, programmers, and IT professionals.
- Ability to manage digital projects, including budgeting, scheduling, and coordinating team efforts.
- Experience with digital research methods and familiarity with current trends in digital humanities.
- Problem-solving skills to troubleshoot technical issues and navigate the complexities of digital humanities research.
- Ability to effectively interpret and communicate complex humanities concepts to a broader audience through digital platforms.
Digital Humanities Specialist Experience Requirements
Digital Humanities Specialists often hold an advanced degree in humanities or a related field, with a strong emphasis on digital media and technology.
This is where they gain the necessary theoretical knowledge for this role.
Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships or part-time roles in digital humanities projects or research.
These professionals can also gain on-the-job experience in roles such as Digital Archivist, Data Analyst, or other IT-related roles within humanities research.
Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often develop their technical skills and knowledge in entry-level Digital Humanities Specialist roles or similar positions.
They typically have a good command of digital tools and methods for humanities research and have led or been heavily involved in one or more digital humanities projects.
Those with more than 5 years of experience may have substantial project management experience in their background and may be ready for leadership roles in digital humanities initiatives.
They may have experience with grant writing, team coordination, project design and implementation, and mentoring junior staff or students.
Additionally, advanced Digital Humanities Specialists may have a track record of academic publications or conference presentations in the field of digital humanities.
Digital Humanities Specialist Education and Training Requirements
Digital Humanities Specialists usually possess a bachelor’s degree in humanities, computer science, or a related field.
A strong foundation in the humanities and social sciences is critical, as well as a solid understanding of technology and digital media.
An advanced degree, such as a Master’s or Ph.D. in Digital Humanities, is highly recommended for more specialized roles.
These programs typically incorporate interdisciplinary study including computer science, library science, visual design, and various humanities disciplines.
They should also have skills in data analysis, text mining, and digital content management.
Familiarity with programming languages such as Python or R, and tools like GIS (Geographic Information System) could be advantageous.
Certifications in digital archiving, data visualization, and other related fields are a plus, and can showcase a candidate’s commitment to continuous learning and staying updated with evolving digital trends.
Real-world experience, such as internships or projects involving digital humanities research, can be beneficial and provide practical skills necessary for the role.
Ongoing professional development is also important in this field, with many Digital Humanities Specialists participating in workshops, seminars, and online courses to stay current with the latest technologies and methodologies.
Digital Humanities Specialist Salary Expectations
A Digital Humanities Specialist earns an average salary of $57,000 (USD) per year.
The salary can fluctuate based on factors such as level of experience, education, the organization that they work for, and geographical location.
Digital Humanities Specialist Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Digital Humanities Specialist need?
A Digital Humanities Specialist needs a combination of technical and humanities skills.
They should be familiar with digital tools and software, such as content management systems, data visualization software, and programming languages like Python or R.
They also need skills in data analysis and digital research methods.
On the humanities side, they must have a solid understanding of cultural and historical contexts and the ability to interpret and communicate complex ideas.
Do Digital Humanities Specialists need a degree?
Most positions for Digital Humanities Specialists require a Bachelor’s degree, and many prefer a Master’s or Ph.D., especially in a humanities field.
However, significant experience in digital projects related to humanities research can sometimes substitute for formal education.
What should you look for in a Digital Humanities Specialist resume?
Look for a blend of humanities and technology-related experience.
This can include work on digital humanities projects, experience with data analysis or programming, and academic work in humanities fields.
Evidence of collaboration and project management is also valuable, as many digital humanities projects involve working in teams.
What qualities make a good Digital Humanities Specialist?
A good Digital Humanities Specialist is curious and creative, able to generate innovative approaches to humanities research using digital tools.
They are also meticulous and analytical, capable of managing and interpreting large datasets.
Communication skills are crucial, as they often need to explain technical concepts to non-technical colleagues.
They should also be collaborative, comfortable working in interdisciplinary teams.
What is the role of a Digital Humanities Specialist in a project?
A Digital Humanities Specialist often acts as a bridge between humanities scholars and technical experts in a project.
They may lead or assist in the design and implementation of digital tools and methods for humanities research.
This can involve everything from developing a digital archive, visualizing data, analyzing texts, to creating interactive online exhibits.
They also often play a role in data management and preservation.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we have unveiled the core of what it truly means to be a Digital Humanities Specialist.
And guess what?
It’s not just about understanding technology.
It’s about shaping the intersection of digital tools and human culture, one project at a time.
With our comprehensive Digital Humanities Specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the leap.
But why stop there?
Take a deeper dive with our job description generator. It’s your next step towards creating precise, tailored listings or refining your resume to perfection.
Remember:
Every digital project contributes to the broader humanities landscape.
Let’s shape that future. Together.
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