Genealogy Research Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the modern era, the focus on genealogy research specialists has never been greater.

As interest in ancestry and family history expands, the demand for skilled professionals who can navigate, investigate and interpret genealogical data grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a genealogy research specialist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate process of genealogical research,

You’re in the right place.

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

Let’s dive right in.

Genealogy Research Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Genealogy Research Specialists are dedicated to uncovering historical data related to an individual’s ancestry.

They use a variety of research tools and methodologies to trace lineages, validate historical documents and create family trees.

Their key duties and responsibilities include:

• Conduct in-depth research using a variety of sources such as historical documents, databases, and archives
• Work with clients to gather relevant family history and background information
• Analyze and interpret historical data such as census records, birth and death certificates, and marriage licenses
• Develop comprehensive family trees or genealogical charts, illustrating familial relationships and significant life events
• Validate and cross-verify historical data to ensure its accuracy and authenticity
• Assist clients in understanding their family history, including geographical origins and migrations
• Write detailed reports outlining research findings and conclusions
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive client information
• Stay current with new research methods, resources, and technologies in the field of genealogy

 

Genealogy Research Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Genealogy Research Specialist to help clients trace their family histories and discover their roots.

The successful candidate will have excellent research skills, including the ability to use genealogical databases and other resources effectively.

Genealogy Research Specialist responsibilities include gathering and analyzing historical data, interpreting records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, and constructing family trees based on this data.

The ideal candidate will have an eye for detail and a knack for solving complex puzzles.

Knowledge of various cultures and historical periods is a plus.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed research using genealogical databases, archives, and other resources
• Analyze and interpret records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, census data, and other documents
• Construct comprehensive family trees based on research findings
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations for clients
• Provide consultation services to clients, helping them understand their family history
• Stay updated with the latest genealogical research methods and resources
• Maintain client confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Genealogy Research Specialist or similar role
• Strong research and analytical skills
• Familiarity with genealogical databases and resources
• Knowledge of various cultures and historical periods
• Attention to detail and problem-solving skills
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion
• Bachelor’s degree in History, Anthropology, Genealogy, or a related field

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Genealogy Research Specialist
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Some travel may be required for research or client consultations.
• 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: $50,000 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 Research Specialist Do?

A Genealogy Research Specialist, often employed by educational institutions, historical societies, or as self-employed individuals, specializes in uncovering and tracing family histories.

They conduct detailed research into genealogical records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, census data, immigration records, and other historical documents.

Their aim is to piece together a person’s lineage or a family’s history.

They often use specialized genealogy software to organize and analyze the information they gather.

They may also conduct interviews with family members to obtain oral histories and other family stories.

A key part of their role is creating family trees or reports that clearly show a family’s ancestry.

They may also offer advice and guidance for individuals conducting their own genealogical research.

In some cases, they may specialize in a particular ethnic group, region, or era, and may need to translate foreign documents or decipher old handwriting styles.

Their research can help clients to understand their heritage, discover long-lost relatives, or even prove lineage for legal purposes.

 

Genealogy Research Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A Genealogy Research Specialist should possess a unique set of skills and qualifications that align with researching and documenting family histories, such as:

• Strong research skills to uncover historical documents, personal records, and other data related to lineage and heritage.
• Proficiency in using genealogical databases and software to record and analyze findings.
• Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving skills for piecing together complex family histories and identifying potential discrepancies in data.
• Understanding of historical events, geographical changes, and cultural norms that could impact genealogical research.
• Excellent communication skills to present research findings clearly and concisely to clients, often translating complex information into understandable terms.
• Interpersonal skills to build relationships with clients and potential sources of information.
• Persistence and patience as genealogical research can be a lengthy and complex process, requiring the ability to follow potential leads that may or may not yield results.
• Knowledge of laws and regulations regarding access to personal records and understanding of ethical considerations in genealogical research.

 

Genealogy Research Specialist Experience Requirements

Genealogy Research Specialists typically require a bachelor’s degree in history, genealogy, anthropology or a related field.

During their studies, they gain a significant amount of theoretical and practical experience in research methodologies, genealogical sources, and data analysis.

Entry-level positions often require one to two years of experience in research or archival work, which could be gained through internships, volunteering in local historical societies or part-time roles at libraries or archives.

These professionals may also gain valuable experience by doing genealogical research for their own families or as a hobby.

Candidates with more than three years of experience often possess a deep understanding of genealogical databases, and have honed their skills in sifting through historical documents and records.

They have experience dealing with a wide range of sources like census records, immigration records, military records, and church records.

Those with more than five years of experience may have developed specialization in particular geographical areas or time periods.

They may also have experience in managerial or supervisory roles, overseeing research projects, training junior researchers or leading a team of researchers.

Additionally, Certification from the Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG) or the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen) can provide a definitive advantage in terms of experience and skills.

 

Genealogy Research Specialist Education and Training Requirements

A Genealogy Research Specialist typically holds a bachelor’s degree in history, anthropology, or a related field.

Many universities and colleges offer courses in genealogical research techniques as part of their history or anthropology degrees.

In these courses, students learn how to use various resources such as archives, libraries, and online databases for genealogical research.

Some Genealogy Research Specialists may choose to pursue a post-graduate certificate or degree in genealogical studies.

These programs provide advanced research skills, along with the legal and ethical considerations involved in genealogical research.

Familiarity with software used in genealogical research, such as database management systems and genealogy software, is also essential.

Some individuals may choose to become certified in the use of specific software programs.

Genealogical societies, like the Board for Certification of Genealogists, offer certification programs.

To be certified, a Genealogy Research Specialist must demonstrate a high level of competency in genealogical research skills.

Continuing education is crucial in this field as new research methods and resources continually emerge.

The genealogist must also be skilled in analytical thinking, problem-solving, and have a keen eye for detail.

 

Genealogy Research Specialist Salary Expectations

A Genealogy Research Specialist earns an average salary of $52,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may vary based on years of experience, education, geographic location, and the size and type of the employing organization.

 

Genealogy Research Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Genealogy Research Specialist need?

A Genealogy Research Specialist needs excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, as the role often involves piecing together complex family histories from limited or fragmented information.

They need strong research skills, including experience with online databases, archives, and other information sources.

Communication and interpersonal skills are also essential for interacting with clients and understanding their unique needs.

 

Do Genealogy Research Specialists need a degree?

While not always required, many Genealogy Research Specialists hold a degree in history, anthropology, or a related field.

Some also have advanced degrees or certifications in genealogical research.

Regardless of their educational background, all Genealogy Research Specialists must have a deep knowledge of historical events, cultural practices, and genealogical research methods.

 

What should you look for in a Genealogy Research Specialist resume?

Look for evidence of strong research skills, including experience with genealogical databases and archives.

Experience in history, anthropology, or a related field can also be beneficial.

The candidate should also demonstrate a deep interest in and knowledge of genealogy and family history.

Professional certifications in genealogical research are a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Genealogy Research Specialist?

A good Genealogy Research Specialist is detail-oriented and has a natural curiosity about history and family ancestry.

They have excellent problem-solving skills, allowing them to piece together complex family histories from fragmented or limited information.

They also have strong communication and interpersonal skills, helping them interact effectively with clients and understand their unique needs and goals.

 

What are the daily duties of a Genealogy Research Specialist?

A Genealogy Research Specialist typically spends their day conducting research, which may involve searching online databases, reviewing historical documents, or visiting archives.

They may also spend time meeting with clients to discuss their research needs and goals, presenting findings, or writing detailed reports.

Continuing education and staying up-to-date with the latest research methods and resources is also an important part of the job.

 

Conclusion

And so, we’ve unraveled the intricacies of being a Genealogy Research Specialist.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about tracing family histories.

It’s about weaving the intricate tapestry of our past, one ancestral connection at a time.

With our handy genealogy research specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on your journey.

But why halt your expedition here?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your compass towards meticulously crafted job listings or refining your resume to distinction.

Do keep in mind:

Every ancestral link is a piece of the grand puzzle.

Let’s unearth that history. Together.

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