Historical Researcher

We're seeking a talented, enthusiastic Historical Researcher to join our Ottawa office!

As a Historical Researcher, you'll work alongside project managers and team members to provide historical research, analysis, and writing services in support of clients. Our services capture many of the unique stories that make up our past, inform our present and inspire the future. We have worked with museums, Indigenous organizations, non-profits, government bodies, and corporations on a variety of projects both large and small. Making this an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate looking to get their feet wet in the world of history.

Using historical research methodologies and technical writing skills, you'll conduct genealogical and archival file review, collect and analyze historical records, and enter data and report on your findings in databases. Other day-to-day tasks include quality assurance, digitization and transcription of written and oral records, support project administration, writing research summaries for deliverables, 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 upbeat, collaborative culture. We're looking for someone that is a team player, a quick learner, and most importantly, passionate about history!

Responsibilities & Duties

• Conduct archival and genealogical file review.
• Provide research support including document management, data processing, filing, and copying files.
• Conduct archival document identification, collection, and digitization.
• Conduct genealogical research in databases and digital repositories.
• Transcribe written and oral records.
• Support project administration (creating and distributing work assignments, creating delivery lists, updating and maintaining project standards, and other similar tasks).
• Contribute to the development of process-driven research methodologies.
• Assist with quality assurance and Burden of Proof assessments.
• Update and maintain research databases.
• Assist community outreach and engagement.

Preferred Skills & Qualifications

• Experience using databases for conducting data entry and historical research.
• Ability to follow workflows and guidelines.
• Understanding of different kinds of genealogical and historic documents and their corresponding repositories.
• Strong knowledge of or prior experience working with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis history and communities.
• Comfortable using Microsoft Office or a similar suite of office software.
• Ability to work with sensitive information with complete confidentiality and attention to detail.
• Demonstrated verbal and written communication skills (plain language writing is essential!).
• Completion of an MA degree in a relevant field, (i.e. History, Indigenous Studies, etc) or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• English is the working language; however, knowledge of an Indigenous language(s) or French is an asset.

Additional Position Details

• Hours: This is a full-time position, with options for flexible hours.
• Compensation: Starting at $22-24/hr, with paid vacation, paid sick leave, and extended health and dental benefits.
• Location: Ottawa, ON (In office)
• Other: State-of-the-art equipment are provided (e.g., laptop, dual monitor, peripherals), and team members are also provided 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 by Sunday, March 19th, 2023.

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.