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Documentary Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

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

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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 Jul 9, 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 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 do you become a documentarian?

To become a documentary researcher, you typically need a background in journalism, film, or related fields, along with strong research, writing, and organizational skills. Gaining experience through internships, volunteering, or entry-level research roles helps build relevant knowledge and connections in the industry. Proficiency with research tools, understanding of storytelling, and a passion for the subject matter are also important for success in this role.

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.

Do documentarians make good money?

Documentarians' earnings vary widely based on experience, project scope, and funding sources. Entry-level documentarians often earn modest salaries, while experienced professionals working on high-profile projects or for major organizations can earn higher incomes, sometimes exceeding $70,000 annually. Many also supplement income through grants, freelance work, or teaching.

What kind of jobs in media bring in 150,000 a year?

In media, high-paying roles such as senior producers, media executives, or specialized consultants can earn $150,000 or more annually. These positions often require extensive experience, strong industry networks, and advanced skills in project management, negotiation, or technical expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Documentary Researcher, and why are they important?

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.
More about Documentary Researcher jobs
What cities are hiring for Documentary Researcher jobs? Cities with the most Documentary Researcher job openings:
What states have the most Documentary Researcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Documentary Researcher jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Documentary Researcher jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Documentary Researcher jobs are:
Infographic showing various Documentary Researcher job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 71% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.
Kitchen Utility Attendant/Dishwasher - King's Arm Tavern

Kitchen Utility Attendant/Dishwasher - King's Arm Tavern

Colonial Williamsburg Company

Williamsburg, VA

$19.59/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday


Colonial Williamsburg rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 27 rated museums


Job description

Job Description:

  • Must be available to work all schedules, weekends, Sundays, and holidays
  • Process china, glass, eating and cooking utensils through a large dishwashing machine.
  • Wash china, glass, eating and cooking utensils by hand as appropriate.
  • Ability to understand and follow instructions.
  • Follow a strict sanitation policy.
  • Prior experience performing heavy cleaning, preferably in a commercial kitchen setting.
  • Preferred: experience working in a commercial kitchen using industrial dishwashing equipment.

Successful candidates must be able to obtain and maintain a current Williamsburg James City County Food Handlers Card; applicants with an active Food Handlers Card should be prepared to present the Card during the interview process.
Physical requirements include but are not limited to: (1) ability to lift, handle and transport up to 100 pounds as necessary; (2) carrying heavy objects up and down stairs; (3) bending, stooping, lifting; (4) working while standing for long periods of time; (5) working at a fast pace for several hours at a time; (6) working at heights over 6 feet.

Who We Are

Founded in 1926, the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation is a private, not-for-profit educational, historic, and cultural institution that owns and operates one of the largest and best-known museum complexes in the world. Our mission is “that the future may learn from the past” through preserving and restoring 18th-century Williamsburg, Virginia’s colonial capital. We engage, inform, and inspire people to learn about this historic capital, the events that occurred here, and the diverse peoples who helped shape a new nation. Today, Colonial Williamsburg is the largest living history museum in the U.S. The Historic Area is the 301-acre restored colonial capital with 88 original buildings and 525 buildings reconstructed to how they appeared in the 18th century through extensive archaeological, architectural, and 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 operates two world-class museums, the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum, and the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum, and a renowned research library, the John D Rockefeller Jr Library. Additionally, Colonial Williamsburg is home to five world class accommodations at the Williamsburg Inn, Williamsburg Lodge Autograph Collection, the Giffin Hotel, the Williamsburg Woodlands Hotels and Suites and the unique Colonial Houses in the Historical Area. Visitors may also indulge in food and drink at our many on site restaurants and taverns that blend a historically inspired dining experience with today’s evolved tastes. Each year over 5 million people visit Williamsburg and another 20 million engage with us digitally.


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