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Documentary Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DePaul

Adjunct Faculty in Documentary

Chicago, IL · On-site

The curriculum integrates knowledge of documentary's history, styles, traditions, affinity for research and development, and varied approaches to storytelling and production with high production ...

Reddy Neumann Brown P.C.

Legal Assistant

Houston, TX · On-site

Conduct investigations and statistical/documentary research * Locate and develop case relevant information * Type up and file basic legal documents and correspondence * Answer and direct phone calls

Colonial Williamsburg

Culinary Extern

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$19.91/hr

... documentary research. The Historic Area is staffed by highly trained, historically dressed interpreters and expert tradespeople who bring the 18th century to life. The Foundation also owns and ...

Colonial Williamsburg

CULINARY EXTERN

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

... documentary research. The Historic Area is staffed by highly trained, historically dressed interpreters and expert tradespeople who bring the 18th century to life. The Foundation also owns and ...

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Documentary Researcher information

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$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do documentary researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for documentary researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a documentary researcher do?

A Documentary Researcher is responsible for gathering, verifying, and organizing information and materials needed for the production of documentaries. They conduct interviews, locate archival footage, source photographs, and fact-check content to ensure accuracy and credibility. Their work supports producers and directors by providing detailed background information and uncovering compelling stories or facts. Documentary Researchers play a crucial role in shaping the narrative and authenticity of a documentary project.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a documentary researcher?

To thrive as a Documentary Researcher, you need strong investigative skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of fact-checking methods, usually supported by a degree in journalism, history, or a related field. Familiarity with research databases, archival systems, and content management tools is typically required. Excellent communication, persistence, and critical thinking are valuable soft skills for effectively sourcing and verifying information. These abilities are crucial to ensure the documentary’s accuracy, credibility, and compelling storytelling.

What are some common challenges faced by documentary researchers during the production process?

Documentary Researchers often encounter challenges such as verifying the accuracy of information from multiple sources and navigating copyright or permissions for archival materials. Tight production deadlines can also make it difficult to conduct in-depth research, requiring strong organizational and time management skills. Additionally, collaborating with directors, producers, and editors means researchers must be adaptable and communicate findings clearly to support creative vision while maintaining factual integrity.

How much do documentary researchers make?

Documentary researchers typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the scope of the project. Entry-level roles may start lower, while experienced researchers working on high-profile documentaries can earn higher salaries or project-based fees.

How to become a documentary researcher?

To become a documentary researcher, you typically need a background in journalism, media, or related fields, along with strong research, interviewing, and organizational skills. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level roles in media production helps build relevant knowledge, and familiarity with research tools like databases and archives is essential. Developing a network within the industry can also improve job prospects.

What do documentary researchers do?

Documentary researchers gather and verify information, sources, and footage needed for documentary films or programs. They conduct interviews, locate archival materials, and ensure factual accuracy, often working closely with directors and producers to support storytelling and production schedules.
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Documentary Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Documentary Researcher job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Adjunct Faculty in Documentary

DePaul University

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

DePaul University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

389th of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
DePaul's Jarvis College of Computing & Digital Media (CDM) is located in the heart of Chicago's Loop, the central business district of Chicago. COur students represent many different experiences, perspectives, and cultures, and the university strives to recruit and sustain a faculty community where all backgrounds are valued and supported. Part-time teaching positions are available throughout the academic year, including summer sessions. Academic course schedules fluctuate from quarter to quarter, and the college will work with selected individuals to determine a quarterly schedule. Courses are not guaranteed, however the college does its best to give ample notice about available courses. Applicants with expertise that matches course scheduling needs will be contacted for an interview.
The School of Cinematic Arts (SCA) offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs incluuding Film and Television, Animation, Creative Producing, Documentary, and Screenwriting on the Loop campus and at DePaul Cinespace Studios. Find out more about SCA at https://www.cdm.depaul.edu/academics/Pages/School-of-Cinematic-Arts.aspx.
Qualifications
Minimum requirements include a master's degree in the discipline, or 18 semester/27 quarter hours of graduate work in the discipline, or an undergraduate degree with a minimum of five years demonstrated relevant professional experience. Exceptions may be considered with approval of the dean.
MFA in documentary plus professional credits on distributed or broadcasted work, or significant festival screenings or awards are preferred. The candidate must have demonstrated experience in creating inclusive work/learning spaces.
Application Instructions
The documentary program equips aspiring documentary filmmakers with both a deep understanding of the documentary genre and strong skills in film production. The curriculum integrates knowledge of documentary's history, styles, traditions, affinity for research and development, and varied approaches to storytelling and production with high production values, effective post-production, and the ability to take creative work to its audiences.
Considerations:
Exceptions to standard rates may apply to courses with unique credit hours, supervision, labs, clinical/practicum courses, coaching, administrative tasks, and courses that are either over-enrolled or under-enrolled.
General Compensation/Benefits Statement:
DePaul University has provided a compensation range that represents its good faith estimate of what the University may pay for the position at the time of posting. The salary offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the qualifications, education, experience, and training of the selected candidate, the scope and responsibilities of the position, departmental budget availability, internal salary equity considerations, and available market information.
DePaul University offers a variety of benefit options for qualified part-time employees. Further information regarding benefits can be found here: https://offices.depaul.edu/human-resources/benefits/part-time/Pages/default.aspx
About DePaul University's Academic Calendar:
Except for the College of Law, DePaul University operates on a quarter system. Classes in Autumn, Winter, and Spring quarters are 11 weeks in length (including finals week) and Summer courses, in two sessions, are typically 5 weeks in length. The College of Law operates on the semester system. Classes in the Fall and Spring semesters are 16 weeks in length (including finals week) and it offers a Summer Session of 7 weeks (including final exams).

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