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Film Historian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wisconsin

University Archives Assistant

Madison, WI · On-site

... film, audio and video recordings, scrapbooks, and electronic files of permanent historical value ... Oral Historian (i.e. processing oral history interviews, scheduling oral history interviews ...

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Film Historian information

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$30.5K

$86.3K

$137.5K

How much do film historian jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for film historian in the United States is $86,335.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $105,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical daily responsibilities of a film historian?

Film Historians spend their days conducting in-depth research on films, filmmakers, and cinematic movements, often utilizing archives and historical records. They may write articles, curate exhibits, deliver lectures, and collaborate on preservation projects with museums, libraries, or academic departments. The role often involves documenting findings, maintaining or expanding film collections, and sometimes engaging with the public through educational programs or screenings. Collaboration with archivists, curators, and other historians is common, especially when working on joint research or restoration initiatives. This mix of research, writing, and teamwork keeps the role both intellectually stimulating and dynamic.

What does a film historian do?

A Film Historian researches, analyzes, and interprets the history of cinema, focusing on films, filmmakers, genres, and cultural impact. They may work in academia, archives, museums, or media organizations, writing articles, books, or documentaries about film history. Their work often involves studying old films, reviewing historical documents, and preserving significant cinematic works. Film Historians also teach courses, give lectures, and contribute to discussions on film preservation and theory.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the film historian position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Film Historian, you need a deep knowledge of film history and theory, strong research skills, and typically an advanced degree in film studies, history, or a related field. Familiarity with digital archives, library cataloguing systems, and research databases is often essential, and professional certifications in archival science can be beneficial. Excellent written and verbal communication, attention to detail, and the ability to synthesize complex information help distinguish top professionals in this role. These competencies are crucial for accurately preserving, analyzing, and sharing film history with academic, industry, or public audiences.

More about Film Historian jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Film Historian jobs? The most popular types of Film Historian jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Film Historian jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Film Historian jobs are:
Film Historian jobs near you
Infographic showing various Film Historian job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,335 per year, or $41.5 per hour.

Archivist

Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Archivist
Full Time Days | 9am-5pm | Monday-Friday
The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania - Philadelphia Campus - is immediately hiring an Archivist.
A national historic landmark in the heart of Philadelphia, the Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania, features beautiful architecture which ushers in visitors from around the world. The Masonic Library and Museum prides itself on preserving artifacts, past, present, and future of Freemasonry in all its aspects.
Why Choose The Library and Museum:
All Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania employees work as a team to accomplish our mission of preserving this National Landmark. When you join our team you can expect:
  • Comprehensive industry-leading benefits package
  • Competitive pay rates to attract the best talent
  • Tuition and Educational Reimbursement
  • The ability to learn numerous aspects of this historic structure that illustrates the craftsmanship of the builders and workers that have had the opportunity to take care of this building for over 100 years

Our Archivist is responsible for the following:
  • Authenticate and appraise historical documents and archival materials.
  • Preserve and maintain documents and objects.
  • Create and manage a system to maintain and preserve electronic records.
  • Organize and classify archival records to make them easy to search through
  • Safeguard records by creating film and digital copies.
  • Document and assist to help arrange, exhibit, and maintain collections.
  • Maintain policy guidelines concerning public access to materials.
  • Find and suggest new materials for their archives.
  • Classify and catalogue the archival assets of the museum.
  • Coordinate with historians and fellow archivists in assessing the authenticity of newly included ancient or history documents in the museum's collection.

What You Need as an Archivist:
  • A Bachelor's degree in history, archeology or any of the social sciences is basic.
  • A Master's degree in the antiquities is preferred.
  • 5-7 years of experience in related archival discipline is an advantage.
  • Excellent computer literacy in using museum database systems.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Apply