Genealogy and Local History Researcher

GENEALOGY/LOCAL HISTORY RESEARCHER

TITLE:  Genealogy and Local History Researcher

POSITION SUMMARY:  The candidate will be working with a team on multiple projects simultaneously to research the local history and genealogy on various subjects according to the client's goals. This will include searching through archival collections, books, papers, maps, photographs, microfilms, databases, audio files, or other documentary materials. The research involves using genealogical and historical databases, or researching in libraries and archives to gather historical information about specific individuals and localities. 

The candidate must be meticulous and detail-oriented. Must be able to handle multiple jobs at one time and be able to keep the content separate. The ideal candidate must have strong skills in reading and writing English and a keen eye for detail. Experience in other languages, including Latin and German, is a bonus.

The candidate will work with a team to locate, analyze, and accurately document historical records and genealogical information, while writing complete and accurate citations. They will keep all records and notes organized and easily accessible to all team members. Updates on research progress will be required weekly.

Experience with genealogical research is a definite plus but not required. The ability to work independently and communicate effectively is a must. Previous writing samples are required with the application.

HOURS:  This is a remote position with a flexible schedule that may require minimal travel. 15-20 hours per week is desired.  Dependability and diligent attendance are required. 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES DESIRED: 

• Ability to read cursive writing is required.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret professional journals, financial reports, and legal documents, court records. 
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. 
• Ability to work with the public in a busy public service department. 
• Ability to work with co-workers, both within the company and the genealogical community at large. 
• Ability to deal with difficult behavior of clients and co-workers
• Ability to maintain confidential information. 
• Ability to organize work, set priorities, use time effectively, work independently, and meet deadlines. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required. 
• Knowledge and understanding of reference tools, research skills, basic library principles, procedures, and technology, 
• Knowledge of common genealogical sources such as census records, telephone directories, military service records, newspapers, birth, death, marriage and divorce records, wills, tax records, property deeds, etc. 
• Knowledge of and ability to proficiently use online sources of genealogy data. 
• Knowledge of and ability to apply standard preservation techniques. 
• Knowledge of digital imaging and scanning technology. 

MENTAL AND PHYSICAL ABILITIES: 

The mental and physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms. The employee frequently is required to sit. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. 

The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift, push or pull up to 25 pounds, and rarely lift, push or pull up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, and the ability to adjust focus.