Genealogy Researcher Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of information, the focus on genealogy researchers has never been sharper.

As interest in family histories and ancestral roots continues to grow, the demand for skilled individuals who can navigate, interpret, and bring to light our genealogical stories heightens.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a genealogy researcher?

Whether you are:

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

You’ve come to the right place.

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

Let’s dive right into it.

Genealogy Researcher Duties and Responsibilities

Genealogy Researchers are responsible for tracing and documenting family histories, validating and verifying family data using genealogical and historical sources, and presenting this information to clients or interested parties in a clear and organized manner.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Consulting with clients to understand and define research objectives and goals
• Conducting comprehensive research using a variety of sources, including online databases, libraries, court records, and personal interviews
• Verifying and validating collected information to establish the accuracy of family histories
• Constructing family trees and creating detailed reports of findings
• Preserving records, documents, and personal papers that may be of genealogical significance
• Utilizing specialized genealogical software and databases to assist in the documentation and organization of research
• Advising clients on how to interpret and apply gathered genealogical information
• Keeping up to date with developments and trends in genealogical research methods and resources
• Networking with other genealogists, historians, and relevant professionals to enhance research capabilities

 

Genealogy Researcher Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a dedicated Genealogy Researcher to join our team.

The researcher will conduct extensive research, collect data, analyze information, document findings, and assist clients in tracing their family history.

The ideal candidate will have a knack for comprehensive and detailed research, a deep understanding of historical periods and cultures, and an enthusiastic demeanor.

The Genealogy Researcher must have excellent organizational skills and the ability to present findings in a clear and comprehensive manner.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough and detailed genealogical research
• Analyze historical records, documents, and other resources
• Document research processes and findings comprehensively
• Create detailed family trees and genealogical reports
• Utilize a wide variety of resources, including online databases, libraries, and local resources
• Communicate effectively with clients, discussing progress and answering queries
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of genealogical sources and software
• Assist in the development of genealogy educational programs and workshops

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Genealogy Researcher or similar role
• Thorough understanding of historical periods and cultures
• Experience with genealogical databases and software
• Outstanding research and analytical abilities
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively
• Advanced degree in history, genealogy, anthropology, or related field is preferred

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Genealogy Researcher
• Work Environment: This role can typically be performed remotely but may require occasional travel to various libraries, archives, or historical societies.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Senior Genealogy Researcher or Research Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $75,000 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 Researcher Do?

Genealogy Researchers, often called family historians, work to trace the lineage and history of individuals or families.

They may work for private clients, genealogical societies, or research institutions.

Their primary task is to gather data from a variety of sources such as public records, census data, historical documents, diaries, letters, and family bibles.

They also conduct interviews with family members and other individuals to gather oral histories and anecdotes.

Genealogy Researchers use this information to create comprehensive family trees, documenting relationships and significant life events of ancestors.

They also often work to authenticate and date old photographs, documents, and artifacts.

In addition to research, they may write reports detailing their findings, provide consultations to clients, and even assist in locating long-lost relatives.

Increasingly, Genealogy Researchers are using DNA testing services to provide deeper insights into a person’s heritage, and are proficient in the use of various databases and genealogy software.

Their work often involves problem-solving, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of historical events and societal customs of different periods.

 

Genealogy Researcher Qualifications and Skills

A competent Genealogy Researcher should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Strong research skills to navigate through vast amounts of information and identify, analyze, and interpret historical records and data relevant to genealogical research.
• Attention to detail to ensure accuracy in research and data recording, especially when dealing with complex family histories and records.
• Problem-solving skills to handle complex genealogical puzzles and construct family histories from limited or fragmented information.
• Communication skills to effectively present findings to clients, answer their queries, and understand their specific research goals and needs.
• Knowledge of genealogical resources such as databases, archives, and other data sources to aid in research.
• Understanding of historical contexts and events that might affect genealogical research, including migration patterns, wars, and laws.
• Computer literacy to handle digital databases, genealogy software, and other relevant technological tools.
• Patience and tenacity, as genealogical research often requires sifting through numerous records over extended periods to reach accurate conclusions.

 

Genealogy Researcher Experience Requirements

Entry-level genealogy researchers generally need at least a Bachelor’s degree in History, Anthropology, or a related field.

They often gain initial experience through internships or part-time roles in libraries, archives, or historical societies.

In these roles, they can begin to learn about historical research methods, sourcing and validating records, and genealogical databases.

Some may even take part in genealogical projects or studies, helping them gain valuable hands-on experience.

Candidates with 2 to 3 years of experience will have enhanced their research skills, ideally within genealogical research, and are often competent in using a variety of genealogical databases and resources.

They may also have experience in creating family trees, conducting oral history interviews, and writing genealogical reports.

Genealogy researchers with more than 5 years of experience will often have a strong track record of complex genealogical research, including the ability to trace multiple generations and branches of a family tree.

They are also likely to be familiar with handling more complex tasks, such as researching ancestry across multiple countries or cultures, understanding and using DNA data, and resolving contradictory information.

These researchers may also have experience in teaching, presenting, or writing about genealogy, and could be ready to step into leadership roles within genealogical or historical organizations.

 

Genealogy Researcher Education and Training Requirements

A Genealogy Researcher often possesses a bachelor’s degree in a field such as history, anthropology or library science.

They need strong research skills and a solid understanding of historical events, geography and cultures.

Familiarity with archival research and handling primary source documents is also beneficial.

Many Genealogy Researchers may also have a graduate degree in archival studies, library science or a related field.

Specializing in genealogical studies can be advantageous, providing the researcher with an in-depth understanding of family histories and lineage tracing methodologies.

Some Genealogy Researchers also acquire certification from reputable organizations, such as the Board for Certification of Genealogists or the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists.

These certifications indicate a certain level of expertise and dedication to the field of genealogy.

Continuing education courses, seminars and workshops in genealogy can be beneficial for staying updated on current research methods, emerging software and databases, and advancements in DNA technology used in tracing family histories.

Fluency in multiple languages can be a major asset for a Genealogy Researcher, especially when tracing lineages that span across different countries and cultures.

 

Genealogy Researcher Salary Expectations

A Genealogy Researcher earns an average salary of $53,520 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can differ based on the researcher’s experience, area of expertise, location, and the organization they work for.

 

Genealogy Researcher Job Description FAQs

What skills does a genealogy researcher need?

Genealogy researchers need excellent research and analytical skills to collect, evaluate, and interpret historical records and data.

They should possess attention to detail to draw accurate conclusions and make connections between data points.

Good communication skills are also essential as they often need to interview family members or other relevant parties.

Proficiency in using genealogy software and online databases is beneficial.

 

Do genealogy researchers need a degree?

There’s no strict requirement for a degree, but having a background in history, anthropology, or a related field can be beneficial for understanding the historical context of their research.

Some genealogists may hold a certification from an organization like the Board for Certification of Genealogists or the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists.

 

What should you look for in a genealogy researcher’s resume?

In a genealogy researcher’s resume, look for experience in conducting historical or genealogical research.

This could include working in archives, libraries, or research institutions.

Knowledge of specific historical periods or regions may be valuable depending on the nature of the research.

Proficiency in a foreign language can also be advantageous if the research involves non-English records.

 

What qualities make a good genealogy researcher?

A good genealogy researcher is meticulous and patient, as the research process can be complex and time-consuming.

They should be persistent and resourceful in finding and interpreting records, even when faced with dead ends.

Passion for history and genealogy is also important, as this work often requires deep dives into historical periods and family histories.

 

Is it difficult to hire genealogy researchers?

Finding a skilled genealogy researcher can be challenging as it requires a unique combination of skills, including research, analysis, and a deep understanding of history.

It’s essential to find a candidate who not only has these skills but also has the patience and passion for digging into extensive historical records and family histories.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being a genealogy researcher.

Surprised?

It’s not just about digging into past records.

It’s about unravelling the intricacies of family histories, one ancestral line at a time.

With our comprehensive genealogy researcher job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to delve in.

But why limit yourself?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your ideal tool for crafting meticulous job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every lineage traced is a piece of the larger familial mosaic.

Let’s uncover those histories. Together.

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