Family Historian Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of information, the focus on family historians has never been sharper.

As societies evolve, the need for skilled individuals who can research, document, and preserve our family histories grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a family historian?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to grasp the core of this role,
• A hiring manager mapping out the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of family history research,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable family historian job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Family Historian Duties and Responsibilities

Family Historians are primarily responsible for researching, documenting, and preserving family history and lineage.

They use a range of sources, both online and offline, to gather and verify information about the past.

The duties and responsibilities of a Family Historian include:

• Conduct research to uncover family history and lineage using various resources and databases
• Collect and verify historical information from multiple sources, ensuring its accuracy
• Analyze genealogical records, documents, and other historical resources
• Create, maintain, and update family tree charts and databases
• Communicate with family members, relatives, and other interested parties to gather additional information and clarify details
• Prepare and present reports on findings, including narratives and charts
• Preserve and archive family documents, photographs, records, and other important items
• Stay updated on the latest genealogical research methods and databases
• Provide guidance and support to family members interested in learning more about their family history

 

Family Historian Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Family Historian to help clients explore their genealogical roots.

The Family Historian will specialize in conducting and presenting research on ancestry and genealogical histories.

The ideal candidate will have experience in genealogical research, historical documentation, and family history storytelling.

 

Responsibilities

• Performing research on specific periods or individuals using databases, books, and other resources.
• Creating family trees and other visual representations of family lineages.
• Conducting interviews with family members to gather oral histories and biographical information.
• Verifying the accuracy of research findings and genealogical data.
• Documenting all sources and data discovered during research process.
• Presenting findings in written reports or presentations.
• Communicating with clients to understand their research goals and deliver findings.
• Providing suggestions for further research or DNA testing when necessary.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Family Historian or Genealogist.
• Ability to use genealogical research tools and databases.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and genealogy software.
• Bachelor’s degree in History, Anthropology, or related field preferred.
• Genealogical Research Certificate or similar qualification is advantageous.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Flexible working hours
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Family Historian
• Work Environment: Office setting with flexibility for remote work. Some local or regional travel may be required for record retrieval or client meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Genealogical Services.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 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, cover letter, and examples of previous genealogical research to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Family Historian Do?

Family Historians, often working independently or for families, dedicate their efforts to researching and documenting the lineage and history of a particular family.

Their primary responsibility is to gather historical data through various resources such as public records, online databases, libraries, and family documents.

They may also conduct interviews with family members to gather personal anecdotes and family stories.

Family Historians analyze this collected data and use it to create a comprehensive family tree, highlighting the relationships between family members across generations.

They may also use the information to write detailed family histories, biographies of family members, or to document significant events in the family’s history.

They may also be responsible for preserving family documents and photos, and may advise on the best methods for preserving family heirlooms or artifacts.

Their job is crucial in keeping the family legacy alive, understanding genetic health conditions, or even legal matters like estate and inheritance disputes.

Their thorough research and documentation aid in providing a clearer understanding of a family’s past, thereby enriching the family’s sense of identity and heritage.

 

Family Historian Qualifications and Skills

A professional Family Historian should possess the following skills and qualifications:

• Strong research skills to effectively locate and gather information from a multitude of sources like libraries, archives, and online databases.
• Attention to detail to ensure the accuracy of historical data and prevent misinformation.
• Excellent writing skills for presenting historical findings in a clear and engaging way.
• Proficiency in using genealogical software and tools for organizing and presenting historical data.
• Interpersonal skills for interviewing family members and other sources to gather oral histories and personal accounts.
• Patience and perseverance, as historical research can be time-consuming and require sifting through many documents before finding relevant information.
• Problem-solving skills to overcome research obstacles and find information that may not be readily available.
• Understanding of basic genetics, to assist with DNA testing and interpretation related to genealogical research.
• Knowledge of historical events and societal conditions, to provide context to the family histories being researched.

 

Family Historian Experience Requirements

Family Historians often have a strong background in genealogy, history, or a related field.

Many gain their initial experience through academic study or personal interest in their own family history.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience in researching and compiling family histories.

This experience is often gained through internships, volunteer work with historical societies, or personal projects.

Familiarity with genealogical databases, archival research, and historical record interpretation is crucial.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have a solid understanding of genealogical research methodologies and are skilled in using a variety of research tools, both digital and traditional.

They may also have experience presenting their findings in a format that is accessible to non-specialist audiences, such as family members or community groups.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in the field are likely to have overseen large-scale family history projects, possibly spanning multiple generations and geographical locations.

They may also have experience in teaching or consulting roles, guiding others in their own family history research.

In addition to these practical skills, Family Historians must have strong communication and interpersonal skills, as their work often involves sensitive personal information and requires building relationships of trust with the families they research.

 

Family Historian Education and Training Requirements

Family Historians, also known as genealogists, usually have a bachelor’s degree in history, genealogy, anthropology or a related field.

They also need a strong background in research methodologies, historical databases, and archival science.

Additionally, knowledge of certain geographical areas, cultures, and languages can be helpful.

Some positions, especially those in academia or professional genealogy services, may require a master’s degree or PhD in a specific historical or anthropological discipline.

Certification or accreditation in genealogy is not always required but is highly beneficial.

Organizations such as the Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG) or the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen) offer these credentials.

Being proficient in the use of genealogical software and online databases is another crucial requirement.

It is also beneficial for a Family Historian to have excellent communication and presentation skills, as they often need to present their findings in a clear and understandable manner.

Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest research methods and tools is also crucial in this field.

 

Family Historian Salary Expectations

A Family Historian, also known as a genealogist, earns an average salary of $52,053 (USD) per year.

The salary can fluctuate based on factors such as experience, level of education, the complexity of the research required, and geographical location.

Additionally, many Family Historians work on a freelance basis, so income may vary widely depending on the number and size of projects undertaken.

 

Family Historian Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Family Historian need?

Family Historians need to have excellent research skills, with a keen eye for detail to scrutinize historical documents, photos, and records.

They should have good computer skills to use genealogical software and to conduct online research.

Strong communication skills are also important to interview family members and write clear reports.

Additionally, they should have problem-solving skills to navigate dead ends and conflicting information in family histories.

 

Do Family Historians need a degree?

While a degree is not necessary to become a Family Historian, having a degree in history, anthropology, or a related field can be beneficial.

There are also specific genealogical studies programs available at certain institutions.

Experience in research and a profound knowledge of historical events and contexts are more important than formal education in this field.

 

What should you look for in a Family Historian resume?

Look for experience in research, particularly genealogical research, on a Family Historian’s resume.

Knowledge of historical events and a proven ability to find and analyze historical documents and other resources should be demonstrated.

Computer skills, particularly familiarity with genealogical software and online research, are also important.

A strong Family Historian will also have good interpersonal skills for interviewing family members and excellent writing skills for composing clear reports.

 

What qualities make a good Family Historian?

A good Family Historian is patient, as research can be a long, meticulous process.

They should be perceptive and analytical, able to draw connections from bits of information found in their research.

They also need to be empathetic and sensitive when discussing potentially difficult or sensitive areas of a family’s past with family members.

A passion for history and genealogy, along with a natural curiosity about people and their stories, will also drive a Family Historian to dig deeper and create more accurate and comprehensive family histories.

 

Can anyone become a Family Historian?

Yes, anyone with an interest in history and genealogy can become a Family Historian.

It requires a willingness to learn, an eye for detail, and patience to sift through historical documents and records.

While it can be a challenging and time-consuming hobby or profession, it can also be extremely rewarding, as it provides a personal connection to the past and a deeper understanding of one’s family history.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve pulled back the curtain to reveal the true essence of being a Family Historian.

Surprise surprise, it’s not just about rummaging through old archives.

It’s about uncovering, preserving and sharing the rich tapestry of familial history, one story at a time.

With our go-to Family Historian job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on this exciting journey.

But why stop there?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for drafting impeccable job listings or honing your resume to absolute perfection.

Remember:

Every family story is a part of a larger historical narrative.

Let’s uncover and share these stories. Together.

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