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Historical Researcher Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Prospect Researcher Founded by Detroit philanthropists George and Ellen Booth in 1904, Cranbrook ... Bachelor's degree required, preferably in a related field, such as Journalism, History, English ...

$15 - $16/hr

... criminal history searches. * Verify information for criminal records and forward results ... Have strong organizational and research skills. * Are capable of working independently but take ...

$15 - $16/hr

... criminal history searches. * Verify information for criminal records and forward results ... Have strong organizational and research skills. * Are capable of working independently but take ...

Tour Guide

Traverse City, MI · On-site

$35 - $70/hr

While our stories are derived from historic research, a ghost tour wouldn't be the same without the ghost stories from our guide network across the country. Powered by JazzHR c7Eh6M8k3R

Tour Guide

Dearborn Heights, MI · On-site

$45 - $70/hr

While our stories are derived from historic research, a ghost tour wouldn't be the same without the ghost stories from our guide network across the country. Powered by JazzHR T2j3OtPprA

While our stories are derived from historic research, a ghost tour wouldn't be the same without the ghost stories from our guide network across the country. Powered by JazzHR WSYJsjrnKW

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Showing results 1-20

Historical Researcher information

See Michigan salary details

$26.1K

$98.6K

$143.4K

How much do historical researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for historical researcher in Michigan is $98,579.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,400.00 and $134,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a historical researcher do?

A Historical Researcher investigates, analyzes, and interprets historical data from a variety of sources, such as archives, libraries, artifacts, and documents. Their work often involves uncovering facts about people, events, or periods in history to provide context or answer specific research questions. Historical Researchers may write reports, articles, or books, and sometimes assist with museum exhibitions or media productions. Their findings help educate the public, inform policy, and preserve cultural heritage.

What are some common challenges faced by historical researchers when collecting and verifying sources?

Historical Researchers often encounter challenges such as limited access to primary sources, incomplete archival records, and potential biases in historical documents. Verifying the authenticity and reliability of sources requires critical analysis and cross-referencing with other materials, which can be time-intensive. Collaborating with archivists, historians, and librarians is common to overcome these obstacles and ensure the accuracy of research findings.

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

To thrive as a Historical Researcher, you need strong analytical skills, meticulous attention to detail, and a background in history or related fields—usually supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with archival databases, digital research tools, and citation management software is often required. Excellent written communication, critical thinking, and persistence are standout soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure accurate, thorough analysis and interpretation of historical data, supporting credible and insightful research outcomes.

What is the difference between Historical Researcher vs Archivist?

AspectHistorical ResearcherArchivist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or master's in history, archaeology, or related fieldsBachelor's or master's in library science, archival studies, or history
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, universities, museumsArchives, libraries, museums, government agencies
Industry UsageHistorical research, academia, museumsPreserving, organizing, and managing historical records
Common Search IntentResearch methods, historical analysis, academic projectsRecord management, archival techniques, preservation

While both roles involve working with historical materials, a Historical Researcher focuses on analyzing and interpreting historical data for research projects, whereas an Archivist specializes in preserving, organizing, and maintaining historical records and documents. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the history and archival fields.

What jobs involve historical research?

Historical researchers work in various fields such as museums, archives, universities, and government agencies, where they gather, analyze, and interpret historical data. They often use primary sources, archives, and research tools, and may require strong analytical skills and knowledge of research methodologies. These roles can involve writing reports, curating collections, or supporting academic and public history projects.

What are popular job titles related to Historical Researcher jobs in Michigan?

For Historical Researcher jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Historical Researcher jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Historical Researcher jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Historical Researcher jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Historical Researcher job openings:

Infographic showing various Historical Researcher job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $98,579 per year, or $47.4 per hour.

Prospect Researcher

Bloomfield Hills, MI

$62K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Prospect Researcher  

Founded by Detroit philanthropists George and Ellen Booth in 1904, Cranbrook Educational Community is one of the world’s leading centers of education, science, and art. Comprised of a graduate Academy of Art, contemporary Art Museum, Center for Collections and Research, House and Gardens, Institute of Science, and more than 1,600 students attending our Pre-K through 12 independent college preparatory Schools, Cranbrook welcomes thousands of visitors and students to its campus each year. Critics have called Cranbrook “the most enchanted and enchanting setting in America” and in 1989 it was designated a National Historic Landmark. The campus is located in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, about 20 miles north of downtown Detroit. For more, please visit our website: www.cranbrook.edu.

Reporting to the Director of Advancement Operations and Gift Planning, the Prospect Researcher will support Cranbrook Educational Community’s (CEC) Advancement Team by providing detailed research and data that will inform donor outreach and strategic plans to further fundraising goals related to charitable and sponsorship revenues from individuals, corporations, foundations, and government agencies. They will also provide assistance with the portfolio assignment and review process with the goal of advising CEC fundraisers on the optimization of their portfolios and the achievement of their fundraising goals.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: 

  • Develop and implement a comprehensive and effective prospect research system, including management of research tools and processes.
  • Train, as needed, on the use of research tools, collection, and recording of information to ensure data integrity, database proficiency, and consistency and support a high level of confidence in resulting profiles, ratings, and reports.
  • Assist with the development of training curriculum and materials for the Advancement Team related to prospect research policies, procedures, systems, and applications.
  • Safeguard the confidentiality of donor information and adhere to the ethical and confidentiality guidelines of both the CEC and APRA.
  • All other responsibilities and tasks assigned by the Director of Advancement Operations and Gift Planning.

 Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in a related field, such as Journalism, History, English, Business, or Library Science.
  • A minimum of three years of progressively responsible experience in prospect and donor research.
  • Comprehensive understanding of the tools utilized, and the fundamentals involved with fundraising research.
  • Experience with DonorSearch and Blackbaud products, specifically RENXT and Research Point, preferred.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
  • Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal skills, high-level organizational and computer skills.
  • Comprehensive understanding of the tools utilized, and the fundamentals involved with fundraising research.
  • Ability to produce concise research documents with attention to accuracy and detail.
  • Demonstrated ability to maintain sensitive and confidential information.
  • Strong analytical skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to multitask and manage deadlines.
  • Experience with web platforms will be favorably considered.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience working in a higher-education or major cultural institution setting.
  • Experience working in a comprehensive fundraising campaign.
  • Familiarity with financial information, including proxy statements, annual reports, SEC documents and stock holdings.

This is a full-time position with a salary of $62k+ based on experience.

Cranbrook offers competitive compensation and benefits that include medical, dental, life insurance, long-term and short-term disability, and retirement programs with employer contribution. We also offer generous paid time off, 11 paid holidays and 3 floating holidays, employee discounts, and a unique environment in an educational setting that values collaboration.

For consideration, please submit a resume and cover letter.