Genealogy Project Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the digital age, the focus on genealogy project managers has never been more pronounced.

As interest in family history and genetic heritage grows, so does the demand for skilled professionals who can manage, expand, and protect our genealogical resources.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a genealogy project manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the specifics of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the profile of the ideal candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the complexities of genealogical project management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable genealogy project manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve into it.

Genealogy Project Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Genealogy Project Managers are responsible for overseeing genealogical research projects, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget and meet the needs of the client or organization.

They work closely with genealogists, historians, and other professionals to gather, analyze, and present genealogical data.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Plan and design genealogical research projects, defining the scope, objectives, and deliverables
• Develop project timelines and schedules, allocating resources effectively
• Coordinate research activities, liaising with genealogists, historians and other professionals as needed
• Oversee data collection, ensuring accuracy, quality and relevance of information
• Analyze genealogical data to draw conclusions, develop family trees, and identify trends or patterns
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations of research findings
• Manage project budget, tracking expenditures and assessing cost-effectiveness
• Communicate project progress and results to clients, stakeholders, and team members
• Identify and mitigate potential risks or issues affecting project completion
• Stay updated on the latest genealogical research methods, technologies, and resources

 

Genealogy Project Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a meticulous and organized Genealogy Project Manager to oversee and manage various genealogy projects.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in genealogy research and proven experience in project management.

The Genealogy Project Manager will be responsible for planning, implementing, and tracking specific short-term projects which have a beginning, an end, and specified deliverables.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed project plans, including objectives, timelines, and resources needed.
• Lead and coordinate the project team to ensure project goals are achieved.
• Monitor project progress and make adjustments as necessary to ensure successful completion.
• Establish effective communication plan and ensure its execution.
• Report project status and deliverables to stakeholders.
• Ensure project completion within budget and time constraints.
• Resolve any project-related issues promptly.
• Ensure all project activities comply with company policies and regulations.
• Coordinate with genealogists, researchers, and other project team members.
• Ensure all project documentation is accurate and updated.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Project Manager or similar role in Genealogy or Historical Research.
• Proficient knowledge of genealogy research techniques and resources.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to manage projects and lead teams effectively.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficient in project management software tools.
• Bachelor’s degree in History, Genealogy, or a related field.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a plus.

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Genealogy Project Manager
• Work Environment: Office setting with occasional travel to libraries, archives, and historical sites. Some remote work may be possible.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Genealogy Projects.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $55,000 minimum to $80,000 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 Genealogy Project Manager Do?

A Genealogy Project Manager typically works for genealogical research companies, libraries, or museums.

They may also work independently as consultants or contractors.

They primarily oversee all aspects of genealogical projects, which involve researching and documenting family histories and lineages.

They work closely with genealogists, archivists, and other team members to conduct extensive research using a variety of resources like public records, historical documents, DNA test results, and online databases.

Their job includes designing the research plan, assigning tasks, coordinating with team members, managing timelines, and ensuring that the research is accurate and comprehensive.

They also make sure that all findings are documented systematically and presented in an understandable format to the client.

Additionally, Genealogy Project Managers may be involved in conducting interviews with family members, facilitating DNA tests, and traveling to different locations for on-site research.

They also coordinate with clients regularly, updating them about the progress of the research, addressing their queries, and ensuring their satisfaction with the project outcomes.

In some cases, they may also provide training and educational programs related to genealogical research methods and findings.

 

Genealogy Project Manager Qualifications and Skills

A Genealogy Project Manager should possess a combination of genealogical knowledge, project management skills, and interpersonal abilities, such as:

• Extensive knowledge of genealogical research methods, including the use of digital databases, historical archives, and other resources.
• Project management skills to oversee the planning, execution, and completion of genealogical projects, ensuring they are completed within budget and on time.
• Analytical skills to interpret complex historical data and genealogical records, and accurately trace lineage and family connections.
• Excellent communication skills to liaise effectively with team members, stakeholders, and clients, explaining findings in a clear and understandable manner.
• Attention to detail and accuracy to ensure all information recorded and reported is correct and reliable.
• Interpersonal skills to work collaboratively with a diverse team of researchers, archivists, and other professionals.
• Problem-solving skills to overcome obstacles and challenges that might occur during research, such as missing or conflicting information.
• Technical skills to use genealogy software and online platforms effectively.

 

Genealogy Project Manager Experience Requirements

A Genealogy Project Manager usually holds a bachelor’s degree in history, anthropology, genealogy, or a related field.

They should have experience working in genealogical research or an associated sector, like archival studies.

Entry-level candidates may possess 1 to 2 years of experience in genealogical research, often gained through internships, part-time roles, or volunteer work in libraries, archives, or historical societies.

They may have worked on genealogical projects under the supervision of a project manager or senior researcher.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience likely have a deeper understanding of genealogical sources, techniques, and software.

They have probably executed genealogical projects independently or led a small team on a research project.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have considerable leadership experience, having overseen large-scale genealogical projects or managed research teams.

They likely have advanced experience in interpreting complex genealogical data, utilizing specialized genealogical software, and providing client consultations.

This level of experience is often necessary for a Genealogy Project Manager position.

In addition to experience, Genealogy Project Managers must have a keen eye for detail, strong analytical skills, and excellent communication abilities to discuss findings with clients or team members.

Knowledge of multiple languages can be a significant advantage, as genealogical research often involves sourcing and interpreting documents in different languages.

 

Genealogy Project Manager Education and Training Requirements

A Genealogy Project Manager typically holds a bachelor’s degree in History, Anthropology, or a related field.

A specialization in genealogy or a related subject would be advantageous.

Courses in genealogical research, family history, archival science, and genetics can be beneficial in understanding the dynamics of the field.

Knowledge in specific geographical regions and their history, culture, and migrations is often desired.

There are several institutions offering certification programs in genealogical research that can further enhance their skillset.

These programs cover the methodologies, technologies, and resources used in genealogical research.

Advanced roles may require a master’s degree in History, Library Science, or another closely related field.

A thesis or research project focused on genealogy would be considered a plus.

Understanding of databases and genealogical software is crucial in this role.

Therefore, training in relevant software and database management can be beneficial.

Proficiency in a second language can be particularly useful, especially when dealing with international genealogical projects.

Continuing education and staying updated with the latest research methodologies and advancements in genetic genealogy is key for a Genealogy Project Manager.

Membership in professional organizations, like the Association of Professional Genealogists, can provide opportunities for continuous learning and networking.

 

Genealogy Project Manager Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Genealogy Project Manager is approximately $68,000 (USD) per year.

The actual income can vary greatly depending on factors such as experience, educational background, location, and the size and resources of the employing company.

 

Genealogy Project Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Genealogy Project Manager need?

A Genealogy Project Manager should have strong research and analytical skills to gather and interpret family history data.

They should also have excellent organizational skills for managing multiple genealogical projects simultaneously.

Knowledge of historical events and socio-cultural contexts is beneficial.

Communication skills, both written and verbal, are also essential to present findings and liaise with clients or team members.

 

Does a Genealogy Project Manager need a specific degree?

While there is no specific degree required to be a Genealogy Project Manager, a degree in history, anthropology, or a related field can be beneficial.

Also, various certificate programs and courses in genealogy provide specialized knowledge that can be helpful in this role.

 

What should you look for in a Genealogy Project Manager’s resume?

A Genealogy Project Manager’s resume should highlight their research skills, experience in managing projects, and any knowledge or understanding of genealogical research tools and databases.

Any degrees, certificates, or coursework in history, anthropology or genealogy should also be noted.

Specific projects they have managed and their outcomes would be beneficial to include.

 

What qualities make a good Genealogy Project Manager?

A good Genealogy Project Manager is detail-oriented and has a keen interest in history and family lineage.

They possess excellent research and analytical skills to interpret and verify historical data accurately.

Good organizational skills are essential to manage multiple projects, and strong communication skills are required to present findings effectively and maintain relationships with clients or team members.

 

What is the role of technology in a Genealogy Project Manager’s job?

Technology plays a significant role in the work of a Genealogy Project Manager.

They often use specialized software and online databases to trace genealogical information and family histories.

They may also use project management tools to track progress and communicate with team members or clients.

Additionally, digital archiving tools might be used for preserving and organizing historical documents.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the intricacies of being a genealogy project manager.

And guess what?

It’s not just about tracing family lines.

It’s about piecing together stories of the past, one ancestor at a time.

With our go-to genealogy project manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your tool for creating meticulously detailed job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every traced ancestor contributes to the larger narrative.

Let’s uncover that past. Together.

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