JOB TITLE: Historical Researcher II
LOCATION: History Center - 345 W Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55102 COMPENSATION: $27.58 hourly minimum
STATUS & HOURS: Full-time, temporary position (approximately 40 hours per week). This is a limited-term temporary position that is anticipated to be completed 18 months from the start date.
BENEFITS: Eligible to participate in State Employee Group Insurance Program and a retirement program with employer contribution. Generous vacation and sick time accruals.
DESIGNATION: Temporary
POSTING DATE: August 28, 2024
DEADLINE DATE: Open Until Filled – Priority will be given to applications received before September 11, 2024.
TO APPLY: Interested applicants must apply online at the Minnesota Historical Society’s career center at www.mnhs.org/jobs and include a resume and cover letter by the application deadline date.
DESCRIPTION: This position exists to provide historical research services using primary and secondary resources, photographs, and other materials. The historical research specialist performs primary and secondary research in libraries, archives, museums, and other facilities, evaluates the reliability of historical sources, writes footnoted historical summaries and reports on assigned topics, prepares annotated bibliographies, establishes the importance of research findings, and performs other research services as needed.
SUMMARY OF WORK: 1) Provide historical research services for MNHS exhibit, education, publications collections, program development teams, and other MNHS staff as needed.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- Master’s degree plus one year experience or equivalent work experience working on historical research projects.
- Strong knowledge of history research methodology and data gathering techniques, including ability to conduct original research in primary source collections.
- Demonstrated ability to synthesize research findings into coherent themes and narratives.
- Effective interpersonal and communication skills, including ability to write clearly and concisely and effective oral communication with individuals and groups adjusting the presentation based on the audience.
- Demonstrated ability to think imaginatively and problem solve.
- Demonstrated ability to multitask, work effectively under pressure to meet deadlines, prioritize and adapt to changing priorities.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and take individual initiative while also being able to collaborate effectively and contribute positively in a team environment.
- Ability to efficiently use Microsoft Office software, i.e. Word, Excel, and Google applications.
- Computer skills necessary to develop quality materials and activities.
- Valid driver’s license.
- Ability to lift up to 20 pounds.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- PhD candidate or PhD in history, American studies, or a relevant field.
- Demonstrated proficiency in historical research methods.
- Demonstrated experience working with a variety of research materials.
- General knowledge of Minnesota and United States history.
Should you have questions with the application process, email humanresources@mnhs.org.
At MNHS, we don’t just accept difference — we celebrate it, we support it, and we thrive on diversity for the benefit of our employees, our products and services, and our community. The Minnesota Historical Society believes that an inclusive culture among our team members is critical to our success as a historical society and museum, and we seek to recruit, develop and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool. The Minnesota Historical Society is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and employer.