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Historical Research Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA

SAIC

History Program Specialist

Springfield, VA · On-site

Historical Research Center Management: * Focus on artifact section, storage, and curation ... The ability to assist with multiple tasks and prioritize assignments effectively in a fast-paced ...

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Historical Research Assistant information

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$6

$20

$32

How much do historical research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for historical research assistant in Reston, VA is $20.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.53 and $23.99 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 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 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.

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.
More about Historical Research Assistant jobs
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Historical Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Historical Research Assistant job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, and 37% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,822 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Public Affairs Historical Services Specialist - VA Based

Public Affairs Historical Services Specialist - VA Based

History Factory

Springfield, VA • On-site

Contractor

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

About History Factory
Since 1979, History Factory has been driven by the pioneering idea of making an organization's history more useful for driving its business. Today, many of the world's best enterprises turn to History Factory for unparalleled expertise at the intersection of business and history. Our unmatched combination of research and insights, standard-setting archives management and technology, and award-winning creative transforms a company's inventory of experience-its history and heritage-into better performance and results.
Research Contractor Job Summary:
We are proactively building a team of highly qualified Public Affairs Historical Research Specialists to support a potential government contract. This opportunity is contingent upon the award of the contract.
If awarded, this contract will provide a unique opportunity to contribute to the preservation and dissemination of the history of this organization.
Key Responsibilities (Contingent Upon Contract Award):
  • Apply professional museum quality standards and provide advice on inventorying and accountability procedures for historical artifacts.
  • Assist with internal charge out and external loan procedures for artifacts.
  • Advise on artifact selection, storage, and curation requirements.
  • Collaborate with the in-house historian to create and compose displays, posters, and exhibits.
  • Support the planning and execution of internal information, community, and media relations activities related to historical and museum programs.
  • Work with media relations on articles and other historical publications, adhering to AP Style and public affairs standards.
  • Conduct archival processing, basic preservation procedures, inventorying, and records metadata entry.
  • Assist in collaborative efforts with records management and the National Archives, advising on documents for displays and exhibits.
  • Organize archival records and apply proper classification systems to facilitate access.
  • Research and record the origins and historical significance of archival materials.
  • Locate new materials and advise government customers on acquisition, preservation, and display possibilities.
  • Provide museum management support to museum locations in St. Louis and Washington, including annual tour guide updates.
  • Conduct guided tours of museums and exhibits at both locations, collaborating with internal/external engagements and protocol teams on tour content and scripts.

Required Qualifications
  • Master's degree in history, public history, museum studies, information science, or a related field.
  • Active Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) clearance.
  • Demonstrated experience in historical research, museum studies, archival management, or a related field.
  • Knowledge of museum quality standards and artifact preservation techniques.
  • Experience with archival processing, preservation, and metadata entry.
  • Strong writing and communication skills, including proficiency in AP Style.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with government personnel and other stakeholders.
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills.
  • Located in or within a commutable distance of Springfield, VA

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience working with government agencies or the intelligence community.
  • Experience giving guided tours.

Important Note: This is a contingent opportunity, and employment is dependent upon the award of the government contract. We are building a qualified talent pool in anticipation of this potential project.
EEO and accessibility Statement
History Factory is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, age, family medical history or genetic information, disability, past or present military service, or any other characteristics protected under the laws applicable in the locations where History Factory operates. History Factory will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.
History Factory is committed to the full inclusion of all individuals. We comply with federal and state disability laws and make reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodation in the job application or interview process, please contact accessibility@historyfactory.com.

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