Oral History Project Interviewer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of information, the importance of oral history project interviewers has never been more pronounced.

As time progresses, the demand for skilled individuals who can capture, document, and preserve our oral history grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from an oral history project interviewer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of oral history interviewing,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable oral history project interviewer job description template, crafted for easy use on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Oral History Project Interviewer Duties and Responsibilities

Oral History Project Interviewers are primarily responsible for conducting interviews to collect and preserve historical information.

This role requires strong interpersonal skills, patience, and a deep interest in history.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Research and plan interviews with subjects who can provide information relevant to the project
• Prepare a list of questions or topics to cover in each interview
• Conduct in-person or telephone interviews, ensuring they are recorded accurately
• Document the interviews in writing, often transcribing the recorded conversation
• Follow ethical guidelines to respect the interviewee’s rights and experiences
• Archive and catalog interviews for easy accessibility and future research
• Work with other team members to analyze and interpret the collected data
• Maintain and update recording equipment
• Coordinate with libraries, museums, or other institutions for public presentations or displays
• Communicate with project stakeholders on progress and findings

 

Oral History Project Interviewer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a skilled Oral History Project Interviewer to conduct and record interviews for our ongoing oral history project.

The candidate will be responsible for identifying interview subjects, preparing interview questions, conducting interviews, and transcribing the recorded conversations.

The ideal candidate must have excellent listening, communication skills, and demonstrate sensitivity towards the subjects’ experiences and narratives.

Familiarity with oral history methodologies, and ethical considerations is desired.

 

Responsibilities

• Identify and select potential interview subjects.
• Prepare and develop interview questions in line with the project’s objectives.
• Conduct interviews, ensuring a respectful and non-leading approach.
• Record and transcribe interviews accurately and ethically.
• Maintain and store recorded materials in an organized manner, respecting confidentiality.
• Work collaboratively with the project team to review and analyze collected data.
• Provide regular updates and reports to the project manager.
• Comply with all ethical guidelines and respect the dignity and integrity of the subjects.

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a similar role or with conducting interviews.
• Degree in History, Sociology, Anthropology, Journalism, or related field.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong listening skills and the ability to empathize with interview subjects.
• Familiarity with recording and transcription equipment.
• Understanding of ethical considerations in oral history or research projects.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Opportunity to contribute to a significant historical project

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Oral History Project Interviewer
• Work Environment: This role may involve travel to conduct interviews and may have opportunities for remote work.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Oral History Project Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: [Indicate Pay Range]
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time / Part-time / Contract
• 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 an Oral History Project Interviewer Do?

An Oral History Project Interviewer primarily works in the field of history preservation and research.

They work for institutions like libraries, universities, historical societies, or even independent research groups.

Their main role is to conduct interviews with people who have first-hand knowledge or experiences related to particular historical events, places, or periods.

This can involve individuals from diverse backgrounds such as war veterans, survivors of natural disasters, former political leaders, or ordinary citizens with unique stories.

They are responsible for preparing relevant questions and conducting in-depth interviews.

The interviews may be recorded in various formats like video, audio, or written transcriptions, which the interviewers often manage themselves.

Oral History Project Interviewers also analyze, interpret and summarize the information they gather for academic use or public presentation.

They ensure that the historical narratives they collect are preserved accurately and respectfully.

In some cases, they may also have to conduct additional research or corroborate details shared in the interviews to ensure accuracy.

Their work contributes significantly to historical preservation and provides valuable insights for future generations.

 

Oral History Project Interviewer Qualifications and Skills

An Oral History Project Interviewer should possess a specific set of skills and qualifications to effectively conduct interviews and manage the project, such as:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to conduct interviews and transcribe them accurately.
• Interpersonal skills to make interviewees feel comfortable and encourage them to share their experiences and memories.
• Listening skills to understand and interpret interviewee’s responses and ask relevant follow-up questions.
• Research skills to prepare for interviews, including understanding the historical context and background of the interviewee.
• Attention to detail to ensure every piece of information is accurately documented and transcribed.
• Organization skills to manage interview schedules, transcripts, and archival materials effectively.
• Problem-solving skills to handle unexpected issues, such as technical difficulties during the interview.
• Understanding of ethical considerations and confidentiality to respect the interviewee’s rights and privacy.
• Basic technical skills to handle recording equipment and software.

 

Oral History Project Interviewer Experience Requirements

Oral History Project Interviewers should ideally have a background in history, anthropology, sociology or a related field, with an emphasis on oral history studies.

This could come from a degree program or specific coursework.

For entry-level positions, a minimum of one to two years of experience in conducting interviews, transcribing, or other related research activities is typically required.

This experience could be gained through internships, volunteer work, or part-time roles in research institutions or educational settings.

Candidates with more than three years of experience are usually preferred as they have enhanced their interviewing, transcribing, and research skills in various settings.

Experience with specific populations or subjects may also be an added advantage.

Those with over five years of experience may have a proven track record in managing oral history projects, demonstrating their ability to oversee all aspects of the project from planning to execution.

This level of experience often indicates a mastery of the technical aspects such as digital recording equipment and software, as well as a deep understanding of ethical considerations in oral history work.

In some cases, knowledge of a second language or specific historical periods and cultural contexts may be required, depending on the focus of the oral history project.

 

Oral History Project Interviewer Education and Training Requirements

Oral History Project Interviewers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in history, journalism, anthropology, or a related field.

They require a solid background in research and excellent interpersonal skills to facilitate effective interviews.

Knowledge of the history, culture, and context of the interviewees’ experiences is often crucial.

Advanced study, such as a master’s or doctoral degree in history or a related field, can be advantageous, especially for projects requiring in-depth knowledge or specialized research skills.

In addition, proficiency in a foreign language may be necessary depending on the project’s focus and the interviewees’ native languages.

Oral History Project Interviewers also need training in ethical interviewing practices and often need to understand legal issues such as copyright and privacy laws.

While not mandatory, certification from an organization like the Oral History Association can demonstrate a candidate’s commitment and expertise in the field.

Continued education through seminars, workshops, or conferences keeps interviewers updated with the latest methodologies, technologies, and ethical standards in oral history collection.

 

Oral History Project Interviewer Salary Expectations

An Oral History Project Interviewer can expect to earn an average of $43,000 (USD) per year.

However, the salary can vary significantly depending on the individual’s experience, qualifications, and the location of the project.

Some high-demand areas might offer higher compensations.

 

Oral History Project Interviewer Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Oral History Project Interviewer need?

An Oral History Project Interviewer needs exceptional listening and communication skills, as well as the ability to ask insightful and open-ended questions.

They should also possess empathy, respect, and cultural sensitivity, as they’ll be interacting with people from diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Basic technical skills for operating recording equipment and a solid understanding of ethical considerations in oral history interviewing are also required.

 

Do Oral History Project Interviewers need a degree?

While it’s not a strict requirement, a degree in a related field such as history, journalism, anthropology, or social sciences can be beneficial.

Equally important are training and experience in conducting interviews, understanding oral history methodologies, and adhering to ethical guidelines.

 

What should you look for in an Oral History Project Interviewer’s resume?

Look for experience in conducting interviews, particularly with diverse populations.

Any knowledge or experience with historical research, transcription, or archiving can be beneficial.

Also, check for technical skills with recording equipment and audio software.

If the project involves a specific community or topic, knowledge and experience in that area would be an asset.

 

What qualities make a good Oral History Project Interviewer?

A good Oral History Project Interviewer is patient, respectful, and empathetic, as they often deal with sensitive and personal stories.

They’re also good communicators and have the ability to put interviewees at ease.

They should be inquisitive and analytical, capable of asking thought-provoking questions and making connections between different pieces of information.

 

How can an Oral History Project Interviewer prepare for an interview?

Preparation involves researching the topic or person to be interviewed, preparing a list of potential questions, and testing the recording equipment.

It’s also important to familiarize oneself with the ethical considerations for the interview, which may involve obtaining informed consent from the interviewee and understanding privacy and confidentiality issues.

 

Conclusion

So, there we have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of what it means to be an Oral History Project Interviewer.

And you know what?

It’s not just about conducting interviews.

It’s about preserving historical facts and personal narratives, one conversation at a time.

With our comprehensive Oral History Project Interviewer job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to step forward.

But why end here?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to crafting precise job listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every interview is a piece of the historical puzzle.

Let’s preserve history. Together.

How to Become an Oral History Project Interviewer (Complete Guide)

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