Local Historian Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving world of historical research, the spotlight on local historians has never been brighter.

As our interest in understanding our past grows, the demand for passionate minds who can uncover, interpret, and preserve our local history also rises.

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

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the process of historical research,

You’re in the right place.

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

Let’s delve right into it.

Local Historian Duties and Responsibilities

Local Historians play a crucial role in the preservation, interpretation, and dissemination of a community’s history.

They can work in a variety of settings, including museums, historical societies, libraries, and educational institutions.

Their key responsibilities include:

• Research and collect data to document local history, including conducting interviews, exploring archives, and examining artifacts
• Write articles, reports, and books on local history topics
• Plan and give public presentations, such as lectures, talks, and guided tours
• Work with local schools and community groups to promote the understanding of local history
• Develop and manage collections of historical information, such as documents, photographs, and oral histories
• Plan and organize local history events, such as exhibitions, commemorations, and reenactments
• Advocate for the preservation of local historical sites and artifacts
• Consult with and provide expertise to individuals, community groups, and government bodies on local history
• Collaborate with other historians, archivists, curators, and professionals to share findings and resources

 

Local Historian Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a knowledgeable and enthusiastic Local Historian to join our team.

The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of the local history, culture, and traditions.

The role involves conducting research, collecting historical data, giving public talks and tours, and working on historical preservation initiatives.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct research to understand and document local history and heritage.
• Collect historical data from various sources, including archives, books, and artifacts.
• Give public talks and tours about local history, culture, and traditions.
• Work on historical preservation initiatives.
• Contribute to local history publications and exhibitions.
• Collaborate with educational institutions, historical societies, and community groups.
• Work to promote and preserve local historical sites and structures.
• Advise and assist on projects related to local history and culture.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a historian or in a similar role.
• Extensive knowledge of local history, culture, and traditions.
• Excellent research and analytical skills.
• Strong communication skills for public speaking and writing.
• Ability to work with various historical sources and databases.
• Master’s degree in History, Cultural Studies, Archaeology or a related field preferred.

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Local Historian
• Work Environment: This role may require working in various settings, including offices, libraries, archives, and historical sites. Some local travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Historical Research or related department head.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• 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 Local Historian Do?

Local Historians generally work for cultural institutions, universities, libraries, or even independently in their community.

Their main task is to research, interpret, and preserve the history and heritage of a specific geographical area or community.

This involves investigating historical documents, artifacts, buildings, and oral histories.

Local Historians work closely with community members, local government, and cultural institutions to gather firsthand information about the past.

They often conduct interviews, collect personal narratives, and document local events, all with the goal of preserving and sharing local history.

They write and publish articles, reports, and books about their findings.

They may also develop and present educational programs, lectures, and exhibitions to share historical information with the community.

In addition, local Historians often engage in advocacy work, such as trying to preserve historical landmarks, traditions, or community practices.

They might also provide consulting services to individuals, organizations, or government bodies interested in the local history or cultural heritage.

Many local Historians also play an important role in building community identity and cohesion, helping people understand the past and its impact on the present and future.

 

Local Historian Qualifications and Skills

A proficient local historian should possess a range of skills and qualifications that align with the job description, including:

• Strong research skills to gather detailed and accurate information about historical events, people, and places from various sources like archives, books, and artifacts.
• Excellent analytical skills to interpret historical data and draw logical conclusions, recognizing patterns and trends.
• Effective communication skills to present historical facts and narratives clearly and engagingly, both in writing and verbally.
• An understanding and appreciation of local culture, traditions, and history, with an eagerness to continually learn and discover.
• Attention to detail to ensure accuracy in data collection, interpretation, and presentation.
• Interpersonal skills to work with community members, researchers, and other stakeholders, facilitating collaboration and information exchange.
• Knowledge of historical methodologies and theories to approach historical research in a structured and scholarly manner.
• Ability to use digital technologies and software relevant to the field, such as databases and content management systems.

 

Local Historian Experience Requirements

The role of a Local Historian typically necessitates a profound interest in history, often underpinned by an academic background in History, Cultural Studies, or a related field.

Those with a Bachelor’s degree in history or related fields are often better equipped to embark on such a path.

At an entry-level, a Local Historian could be someone who has gained some experience through internships, volunteer work, or part-time roles in museums, archives, libraries, or local historical societies.

Practical exposure to archival research, cataloging historical artifacts, or participating in heritage projects may serve as valuable experience.

Professionals with around 3 years of experience may have honed their skills in research, preservation, and public speaking through their roles in museums, historical societies, or universities.

They may have authored or co-authored articles or books on local history, or led local heritage tours, and thus, demonstrate a deep understanding of the region’s history.

Those with over 5 years of experience are often well-versed in the area’s history and culture, and are likely to have developed their expertise through continued research, writing, and public speaking engagements.

They might have also contributed to local history projects, participated in community events, and liaised with other historians or academic institutions.

At this stage, a Local Historian might be eligible for managerial or executive roles within museums, historical societies, or cultural centers, responsible for curating exhibits, organizing events, leading teams, or overseeing major historical projects.

They might also consider teaching roles in universities or colleges, and even authoring books on local history.

 

Local Historian Education and Training Requirements

Local Historians typically have a bachelor’s degree in history, anthropology, archaeology, or a related field.

They need to have a deep understanding and knowledge of the history, culture, and traditions of the specific locality they focus on.

This often includes studying primary and secondary sources, conducting archival research, and understanding historical methodologies.

Many positions may require a master’s degree or even a Ph.D., specifically in history or a closely related discipline.

This advanced level of study allows historians to specialize in a particular period, region, or type of history.

Local historians also benefit from practical experience, which can be gained through internships, volunteering at museums or historical societies, or participating in historical reenactments.

Moreover, being able to write clearly and persuasively is a key skill for historians, who often need to present their findings to the public or academic audiences.

As such, courses in writing or communication can be beneficial.

There are also various certifications available for historians, such as the Certified Archivist credential or the Certified Interpretive Guide credential, which can provide a competitive edge in the job market.

Continuous learning is crucial in this field, as new historical documents and artifacts are discovered and new interpretations of history continue to be developed.

This often involves attending conferences, reading scholarly articles, and participating in professional development opportunities.

 

Local Historian Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Local Historian is approximately $59,120 (USD) per year.

However, this can vary based on factors such as the level of education, years of experience in the field, and the region in which they are employed.

Additional sources of income may include publishing historical research, teaching, or consulting.

 

Local Historian Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Local Historian need?

Local Historians need a broad knowledge of local history and geography.

Research skills are crucial as they often need to dig into archives and other historical resources.

They should have good written and oral communication skills to present findings in an engaging way to the public.

Attention to detail is important for accurate documentation and analysis of historical data.

 

Do Local Historians need a degree?

While a degree is not always required, many Local Historians hold a bachelor’s degree in history, anthropology, archaeology, or a related field.

Some positions might require a master’s degree or PhD, especially those in academia or research institutions.

Practical experience in historical research, fieldwork, and public presentations can also be beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a Local Historian’s resume?

Check for a degree or coursework related to history or a similar field.

Also look for any practical experience in research, archiving, public speaking, or writing about historical topics.

Participation in historical societies or organizations and knowledge of local history or culture can be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Local Historian?

A good Local Historian is genuinely passionate about history and cultural heritage.

They have a curious mind, are excellent researchers and are able to sift through vast amounts of information to find relevant data.

Strong communication skills are important, as they often need to present their findings to the public.

They should also have a strong attention to detail for documenting and analyzing historical data.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Local Historian?

The difficulty in hiring a Local Historian often depends on the specific needs of the position.

If the role requires specialized knowledge of a particular period or aspect of local history, it may be more challenging to find suitable candidates.

Additionally, as this is a niche field, the pool of applicants might be smaller than for other job roles.

However, the demand for Local Historians is generally not as high as in some other professions.

 

Conclusion

And that’s a wrap.

Today, we’ve uncovered the intriguing life of a local historian.

Surprised?

It’s not just about studying dusty old books.

It’s about deciphering the past and crafting the narrative of our shared heritage, one historical fact at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive local historian job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embrace your passion.

But why end the journey here?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your key to meticulously crafting job listings or refining your resume to absolute perfection.

Remember:

Every historic detail contributes to the grand tapestry of history.

Let’s unravel the past. Together.

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