Historian

With exciting new research projects starting soon, we’re looking for an intermediate-level Historical Researcher based in Ottawa or Calgary to expand our team! In this role, you’ll work alongside project managers and team members to provide historical research and writing services that help our clients capture many of the unique stories that make up our past, inform our present, and inspire the future.

You’ll use your expertise in Indigenous and Canadian history and research methodologies to conduct archival and genealogical research, analyse historical data and records, and help produce final deliverables and reports. Other day-to-day tasks include file review and quality assurance, document identification and collection, digitization and transcription of written and oral records, project support and administration, and assisting community outreach and engagement. You’ll report to project managers, participate in regular team meetings, and your enthusiasm and ideas will be a vibrant contribution to our positive, collaborative culture.

The ideal candidate is a meticulous researcher who is resourceful, passionate about history, and an active member of the historical research community. They possess strong analytical and project management skills, as well as a strong understanding of archival research methodologies and Canadian Archival holdings.

This is a full-time position with options for flexible hours and the option to work in our Ottawa or Calgary office. We also offer comprehensive health and dental benefits, ample paid time off, professional development opportunities, and state-of-the-art equipment, resources, and facilities to make it easier for team members to pursue their passion.

Responsibilities & Duties

• Provide research in support of projects related to Canadian, First Nations, Métis, and Inuit history.
• Conduct archival document identification, collection, and digitization.
• Conduct genealogical research in databases and digital repositories.
• Contribute to the development of process-driven research methodologies and project plans.
• Assist in writing and editing project deliverables and analytical reports related to litigation research, treaties, land claims, and Statements of Facts.
• Conduct data extraction and review of genealogical and archival records.
• Write and revise other historical writing, research products, and client.
• Assist with community outreach and engagement.

Preferred Skills & Qualifications

• 2-3+ years of professional experience conducting historical and archival experience.
• A master’s degree or PhD in History, Indigenous Studies or a similar discipline; however other relevant training and experience may also be considered.
• Knowledge and experience working with Indigenous history, policy, communities, and governments.
• Demonstrated experience with Library and Archives Canada, RG10 files, CIRNAC semi-active files, and HBC records.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, particularly in plain language, are essential.
• Experience with writing and editing analytical reports and historical publications.
• Demonstrated experience with Access to Information and Privacy and Requests for Personal Information by Aboriginal Claims Researchers under Paragraph 8(2)(k) is an asset.
• Knowledge and experience with land claims, treaties, government and legal issues, community-based research and engagement, or providing research to support commissions (e.g., the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, the National Inquiry into MMIWG) are strong assets.
• English is the working language, however, the ability to speak an Indigenous language or French is an asset.

Additional Position Details

• Hours: Full-time with flexible hours
• Compensation: Starting at $24-28/hour, with paid vacation, paid sick leave, health and dental benefits, and professional development opportunities
• Travel required: Occasionally
• Location: Ottawa (or Calgary)
• Other: State-of-the-art equipment is provided (e.g., laptop, dual monitor, peripherals), and team members are also provided with other resources, facilities, professional development opportunities, etc.

How to Apply

If you are interested in joining Know History’s team for this role, please submit your resume and a cover letter (or a writing sample) by Sunday, April 9th.

Know History is committed to providing equal employment opportunities. We know that, in order to understand our collective history, we need to prioritize Indigenous and diverse voices across all aspects of our organization. We strongly encourage candidates to apply and self-identify if they are Indigenous, members of racialized communities and visible minorities, people with disabilities, and people of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression.

We are dedicated to providing an inclusive and supportive environment. If you have any questions or require accessibility or cultural accommodations, at any point in the application process, send us an email and we’ll work with you to make sure your needs are met.