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Historical Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NY History

Fellowship Research Assistant

New York, NY · On-site

$28/hr

Fellowship Research Assistant DEPARTMENT: Patricia D. Klingenstein Library REPORTS TO: Revson ... The New York Historical is a museum of museums and a collection of collections. We are home to the ...

UNC-Chapel Hill

Research Assistant

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

$20/hr

Posting Information Department History - 315900 Career Area Research Professionals Posting Open ... Position Summary This is a temporary research assistant position within the Department of History ...

UNC-Chapel Hill

Research Assistant

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

$20/hr

Posting Information Department History - 315900 Career Area Research Professionals Posting Open ... Research Assistant Position Number 20076599 Vacancy ID S027547 Full-time/Part-time Part-Time ...

Wayne State University

Research Assistant

Detroit, MI · On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

Research Assistant Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Assistant at its ... history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you ...

Georgetown University

Research Assistant

Washington, DC · On-site

$17.95 - $26.84/hr

With the Hilltop Campus located in the heart of the historic Georgetown neighborhood, and the ... This Research Assistant position is critical for maintaining a functional laboratory and ensuring ...

Tamus

Research Assistant

Overton, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $21.75/hr

Job Title Research Assistant Agency Texas A&M Agrilife Research Department Overton Proposed Minimum ... Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the ...

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How much do historical research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for historical research assistant in the United States is $19.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges Historical Research Assistants face when gathering primary source materials?

Historical Research Assistants often encounter challenges such as limited access to archives, deciphering old handwriting, and verifying the authenticity of documents. Navigating copyright or usage restrictions is also common, as some materials may be fragile or require special permissions. Staying organized and maintaining meticulous records is essential for managing large volumes of data and ensuring accuracy throughout the research process.

What is the difference between Historical Research Assistant vs Archivist?

AspectHistorical Research AssistantArchivist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in history, archaeology, or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree in library science, archival studies, or history
Work EnvironmentResearch projects, universities, museumsArchives, museums, libraries, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, historical, research institutionsArchival institutions, cultural organizations, government
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Historical Research Assistant and an Archivist lies in their focus. A Historical Research Assistant primarily supports research projects by gathering and analyzing historical data, often working in academic or museum settings. An Archivist manages and preserves historical records and documents, ensuring their accessibility for future use. Both roles require related educational backgrounds, but their daily tasks and work environments differ significantly.

What is the best job after MA in history?

A Historical Research Assistant with an MA in history can pursue careers in academia, museums, archives, or government agencies. Additional skills in research, writing, and familiarity with digital tools like databases and archival software enhance job prospects in these fields.

What do history research assistants do?

History research assistants support historians by gathering, analyzing, and organizing historical data from primary and secondary sources. They often conduct archival research, prepare reports, and may use tools like databases or reference management software to assist in historical projects.

What does a Historical Research Assistant do?

A Historical Research Assistant supports historians, researchers, or organizations by gathering, analyzing, and organizing historical data from various sources such as archives, libraries, and online databases. Their work often involves reading and summarizing documents, cataloging artifacts, and assisting with the preparation of reports, presentations, or publications. They may also help verify facts, create bibliographies, and manage digital records. The role requires strong research skills, attention to detail, and an interest in history.

What jobs involve historical research?

Jobs that involve historical research include roles such as historical research assistants, archivists, museum curators, and academic researchers. These positions typically require skills in document analysis, data collection, and familiarity with research tools like archives and databases.

What Does a Historical Research Assistant Do?

A historical research assistant works closely with a professor, lead researcher, and others involved with academic historical research. Your goal in this job is to assist them in their researching duties and help them plan lessons or conduct studies. Your responsibilities are to research and study past events in a specific time period, analyze your data, and document your findings. You also educate students by assisting with lessons, help students with research projects, prepare materials for research manuals, and perform clerical duties, such as organizing documents or transcribing interviews. You commonly find these positions in colleges and universities, but some history museums also hire historical research assistants.

How much does a historical researcher make?

A historical research assistant typically earns between $35,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced researchers or those working in specialized fields can earn higher salaries. Many roles also offer opportunities for part-time work or contract-based projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Historical Research Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Historical Research Assistant, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in history or a related field, often supported by a bachelor’s degree. Familiarity with archival research methods, digital databases, citation management software, and primary source analysis is typically required. Excellent written communication, organization, and critical thinking skills help you collaborate with researchers and clearly present findings. These competencies are essential for producing accurate, well-sourced historical analysis and supporting scholarly work.
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Historical Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Historical Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 8% As Needed, 44% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 8% Temporary, and 28% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,200 per year, or $19.3 per hour.
Assistant Editor-Research Assistant Professor, History, Spring 2027

Assistant Editor-Research Assistant Professor, History, Spring 2027

The University of Tennessee Knoxville

Knoxville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 hours ago

University Of Tennessee, Knoxville rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

349th of 535 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
The Papers of Andrew Jackson at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville seeks a Research Assistant Professor of History to serve as Assistant Editor. The PAJ is producing a comprehensive edition of Jackson's papers in seventeen bound volumes and two digital iterations, as well as a growing public-facing digital archive. Volume XIII: 1835 is now in preparation and early work on Volume XIV: 1836 has begun.
The Assistant Editor position is fully grant funded for four years, running from January 1, 2027, through December 31, 2030. The new Assistant Editor will engage in all aspects of the project's work, including independent and collaborative historical research; accessioning, selecting, calendaring, transcribing, and annotating documents for publication in the volumes; copyediting, proofreading, and indexing the print volumes; managing and expanding the project's online offerings; and working with other staff members to conduct archival research and respond to research queries. Qualifications include a PhD in US history, with a preferred research specialty in the early national through Civil War eras, and advanced historical research and writing skills.
A long-running and highly regarded project, the Jackson Papers seeks to make widely available the full written record of the seventh U.S. president. Current project staff hold faculty appointments in the UT Department of History and are fully engaged in the intellectual life of the campus and community. Our project office and University library offer rich materials for research, including government records, microfilmed manuscript collections, and major electronic databases.
Salary is competitive and includes University benefits.
Qualifications
Required: A Doctoral degree in US History. Historical research (including archival research) and writing experience commensurate with doctoral-level study of US History. Strong general knowledge of nineteenth-century U.S. history. Ability to read nineteenth-century U.S. manuscripts. Advanced historical research skills, including extensive experience in archival research. Basic word processing skills.
Preferred: Detailed knowledge of 1830s-era US political history. Basic image editing and web design skills.
Application Instructions
For full consideration, applications must be submitted by September 1, 2026. Candidates should submit a letter of application, CV, article-length writing sample, and contact information for three references. Inquiries may be direct to Dr. Michael E. Woods, project director, at mwoods47@utk.edu.

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