Genealogical Consultant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the age of personal history exploration, the focus on genealogical consultants has never been more crucial.

As interest in ancestry grows, so does the need for skilled professionals who can unravel, expand, and protect our familial histories.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a genealogical consultant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the specifics of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the intricacies of genealogical research,

You’ve come to the right place.

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

Let’s dive right in.

Genealogical Consultant Duties and Responsibilities

Genealogical Consultants use their knowledge of family history research and genealogical sources to assist clients in tracing their ancestry and creating family trees.

They must be able to navigate a variety of historical documents and databases, and be skilled in interpreting the information found within them.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Meeting with clients to discuss their genealogy goals and needs
• Conducting research using a variety of sources, including birth, death and marriage records, census data, military records, immigration documents, and other historical records
• Using software and online databases to gather and organize genealogical information
• Analyzing and interpreting historical documents and records to establish family connections
• Creating reports, charts, and family trees that clearly present genealogical findings to clients
• Preserving and digitizing historical documents and photographs
• Providing consultations and guidance for clients conducting their own genealogical research
• Staying updated on the latest genealogical research tools, techniques, and sources
• Conducting seminars or workshops to educate others on genealogy research techniques

 

Genealogical Consultant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a knowledgeable and dedicated Genealogical Consultant to assist our clients in researching and documenting their family history.

The Genealogical Consultant’s responsibilities include helping clients to trace their ancestry, develop family trees, locate important historical documents, and providing expert advice on genealogical research methods.

Our ideal candidate has a strong understanding of research techniques and databases and is able to present findings in a clear and comprehensive way.

Ultimately, the role of the Genealogical Consultant is to provide a personalized and thorough service that helps clients understand their heritage and familial connections.

 

Responsibilities

• Conducting in-depth genealogical research using various sources including online databases, historical documents, and physical archives
• Creating comprehensive and accurate family trees
• Providing consultation services to clients on genealogical research methods
• Writing detailed reports on research findings
• Maintaining client confidentiality and privacy
• Assisting clients in obtaining necessary documentation for legal or personal reasons
• Staying updated with the latest genealogical research tools and techniques
• Presenting findings in a clear, concise, and comprehensible manner

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a genealogical researcher or consultant
• Strong understanding of genealogical research methods and databases
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Highly organized and detail-oriented
• Strong communication and presentation skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and privacy
• Bachelors degree in History, Anthropology, or a related field is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Genealogical Consultant
• Work Environment: Office setting with the option for remote work. Some travel may be required for research purposes.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Genealogical Consultant or Research Department Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $70,000 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 Genealogical Consultant Do?

Genealogical Consultants are professionals who specialize in family history and ancestral research.

They primarily work for clients who want to know more about their genealogy and lineage, or organizations that require in-depth historical and genetic research.

Their primary tasks involve researching historical records, databases, and other resources to trace the lineage and history of a particular family.

This can involve sourcing birth certificates, marriage records, immigration documents, death certificates, military records and any other relevant documents.

They analyze the information they gather, linking individuals to create comprehensive family trees.

They also verify facts and check for inconsistencies in the data, ensuring the accuracy of their research.

A Genealogical Consultant may also collaborate with genetic testing companies to analyze DNA samples, helping clients understand their ethnic origins or biological relationships.

In addition to research, they often compile and present their findings in a way that is easily understood by the client.

This can involve creating detailed reports, charts, or even books about the family history.

Genealogical Consultants also provide advice and guidance to clients interested in undertaking their own genealogical research, helping them with tips, tools and strategies.

They also remain updated with new methodologies, resources and technology in genealogy to provide the most accurate and comprehensive services to their clients.

 

Genealogical Consultant Qualifications and Skills

A genealogical consultant should possess a variety of skills and qualifications to conduct effective research, analyze complex data and provide quality services to clients.

These skills include:

• Strong knowledge and understanding of genealogical research methods and sources to carry out comprehensive ancestral investigations.
• Exceptional analytical skills to interpret complex historical and genealogical records, assess their reliability and draw accurate conclusions.
• Outstanding attention to detail to identify subtle connections in data and detect potential errors or inconsistencies in historical records.
• Effective communication skills to convey research findings clearly and succinctly to clients and explain complex genealogical concepts in understandable terms.
• Customer service skills to understand client requirements, provide tailored services and build long-term, trusting relationships with clients.
• Problem-solving skills to navigate through genealogical challenges and overcome obstacles in research processes.
• Digital literacy to use specialized genealogical software and databases and stay up-to-date with the latest technological advancements in the field.
• Patience and persistence to undertake extensive research projects and handle sometimes tedious and time-consuming tasks.
• A genuine interest in history and genealogy, and a commitment to ongoing learning in order to keep abreast of developments in the field.

 

Genealogical Consultant Experience Requirements

Entry-level genealogical consultants may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through a genealogy internship or part-time role.

During this time, they gain practical experience in genealogical research, database management, client consultation, and preparing reports.

This role often requires a strong understanding of historical research methods and tools, so many professionals gain additional experience by working as historical researchers or archivists.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience in genealogical consulting or a related field like history, anthropology, or library science, are often well-versed in using genealogical databases and software, and have honed their research, analytical, and presentation skills.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are considered highly experienced and may possess experience in supervisory or managerial roles.

They are typically adept at handling complex genealogical cases, guiding junior consultants, and managing large genealogical projects.

Certification from a recognized genealogical association, such as the Board for Certification of Genealogists or the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists, can also provide validation of one’s expertise and experience in the field.

 

Genealogical Consultant Education and Training Requirements

Genealogical Consultants typically possess a bachelor’s degree in history, anthropology, or a related field.

Coursework in these fields provides a strong foundation in research methodologies, archival studies, and historical contexts, which are vital for genealogical research.

Further, many genealogical consultants opt to earn a certificate in genealogical research or a similar program, offered by several accredited institutions.

This provides a specialized understanding of the field, encompassing skills in tracing family histories, understanding genetic data, and using genealogical software and databases.

While not always mandatory, accreditation or certification from bodies like the Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG) or the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen) can enhance credibility and job prospects.

These accreditations usually require passing a series of examinations that test the consultant’s ability to conduct thorough genealogical research, and often require recertification every 5 years.

Continuing education via workshops, conferences, and online courses is also encouraged, as the field of genealogy is constantly evolving with new research tools and methodologies.

Possessing a second language can be beneficial for research in different regions worldwide, and knowledge of laws regarding access to public records may also be beneficial.

 

Genealogical Consultant Salary Expectations

A Genealogical Consultant earns an average salary of $56,120 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can differ based on factors such as years of experience, depth of specialization, geographic location, and the organization they work for.

 

Genealogical Consultant Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Genealogical Consultant need?

A Genealogical Consultant should have strong research skills and the ability to interpret historical documents and records.

They should possess good interpersonal skills for communicating with clients and other stakeholders.

Attention to detail is crucial to ensure accurate lineage tracing.

A good consultant will also have patience and determination, as genealogical research can be time-consuming and complex.

 

Do Genealogical Consultants need a degree?

While it’s not necessary for a Genealogical Consultant to have a specific degree, a background in history, anthropology, or library science could be beneficial.

There are also specific courses and certifications available in genealogy that can help improve credibility and knowledge in this field.

 

What should you look for in a Genealogical Consultant resume?

When reviewing a Genealogical Consultant’s resume, look for previous experience in genealogical research.

Knowledge of historical events and periods, as well as proficiency in languages, can be beneficial.

Certifications from recognized genealogical bodies can also add credibility.

Experience with databases and genealogical software is a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Genealogical Consultant?

A good Genealogical Consultant is detail-oriented, patient, and persistent as this work often involves sifting through vast amounts of data.

They should be curious and passionate about history and ancestry.

Good problem-solving skills are needed to overcome hurdles in tracing genealogies.

Excellent communication skills are also important to effectively communicate findings to clients.

 

How can Genealogical Consultants stay up-to-date with their field?

Genealogical Consultants can stay up-to-date by attending webinars, workshops, and conferences related to genealogy.

They can also join professional genealogical associations, read relevant publications, and participate in online forums and discussion groups.

Regularly using and staying abreast of the latest genealogical software and databases is also beneficial.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve explored the intriguing and intricate world of a genealogical consultant.

But guess what?

It’s not just about tracing bloodlines.

It’s about weaving together the complex tapestry of our past, one family tree at a time.

With our handy genealogical consultant job description template and real-life examples, you’re fully prepared to venture forth.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your key to precision-crafted job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every family tree contributes to the grand forest of human history.

Let’s discover that history. Together.

How to Become a Genealogical Consultant (Complete Guide)

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