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$28K

$50.8K

$69.5K

How much do historical society jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for historical society in the United States is $50,840.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,000.00 and $58,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a historical society?

A historical society is an organization dedicated to preserving, collecting, and interpreting historical materials and artifacts related to a specific region, community, or topic. These societies often manage museums, archives, and educational programs to promote public interest in history. Members and volunteers work to document local heritage, organize events, and make historical information accessible to the community. Historical societies play a vital role in ensuring that valuable stories and records are preserved for future generations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a historical society manager?

To thrive as a Historical Society Manager, you need a background in history, museum studies, or a related field, often supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree and experience in archival research or preservation. Familiarity with collections management systems, digitization tools, and grant writing is typically required. Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and strong public engagement abilities help you build community support and effectively manage programs. These competencies are crucial for preserving historical artifacts, promoting educational outreach, and ensuring the society’s long-term sustainability.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working at a historical society?

Professionals at historical societies often encounter challenges such as securing funding for preservation projects, managing the proper care and cataloging of artifacts, and engaging the public through educational programs. Balancing administrative duties with hands-on preservation work can also be demanding. Additionally, collaborating with local communities, historians, and other organizations is essential to broaden the impact of the society's initiatives and ensure the accurate preservation of local history.

What is the difference between Historical Society vs Museum Curator?

AspectHistorical SocietyMuseum Curator
Required CredentialsHistory degree, nonprofit experienceHistory, museum studies, or related field
Work EnvironmentNonprofit organizations, community-focusedMuseums, cultural institutions
Employer & IndustryHistorical societies, preservation groupsMuseums, cultural heritage institutions
Common Search/ComparisonHistorical Society rolesMuseum Curator roles

While both roles focus on history and preservation, a Historical Society typically operates as a nonprofit organization dedicated to local history and community engagement. A Museum Curator manages collections, exhibitions, and educational programs within a museum setting. The two roles often collaborate but differ in their primary functions and work environments.

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What states have the most Historical Society jobs?

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Historical Society jobs near you
Infographic showing various Historical Society job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,840 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Store Lead, History Center Museum

Minnesota Historical Society

Saint Paul, MN • On-site

$23.52 - $25.69/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

JOB TITLE: Store Lead, History Center Museum


OPEN TO: This job is open only to current employees of the Minnesota Historical Society.


LOCATION: History Center - 345 W Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55102

COMPENSATION: Typical starting rate $23.52 - $25.69 hourly.


STATUS & HOURS: Full-time, regular (approximately 2080 annual hours) position.


BENEFITS: Eligible to participate in State Employee Group Insurance Program and a retirement program with employer contribution. Generous vacation and sick time accruals with additional paid holidays.


DESIGNATION: Bargaining Unit AFSCME Local 3173


POSTING DATE: August 18, 2026


DEADLINE DATE: August 25, 2026

TO APPLY: Interested applicants must apply online at the Minnesota Historical Society’s career center at www.mnhs.org/jobs and include a resume and cover letter by the application deadline date.


DESCRIPTION: This position exists to provide a high level of leadership and customer service in supporting the day-to-day retail operations of the Minnesota History Center. Additionally, this position exists to sell admission tickets to the Museum, sell admission tickets to the Minnesota History Center, sell memberships to the Minnesota Historical Society, greet and orient guests, provide customer service to a wide array of visitors, and lend administrative support.


SUMMARY OF WORK: 1) Assist in the daily operations of the museum store with an advanced knowledge of retail, data systems, and ticketing; 2) Assist Retail Buyer with online store operations, sales, and order fulfillment; 3) Provide support for administration, museum operations and other departments.


MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.

  • Strong oral communication skills, ability to listen and be responsive to questions and comments.

  • Demonstrated reliability and ability to provide consistent, high quality customer service.

  • Demonstrated ability to work with a diverse public in a friendly and open manner.

  • Demonstrated ability to think imaginatively and problem solve.

  • Demonstrated ability to collaborate and contribute positively in a team environment.

  • Strong personal computer skills including intermediate skills with Microsoft Office and with GOOGLE suite.

  • Ability to complete record keeping and a variety of reports, including accounting and math skills.

  • Familiarity with technology, particularly admissions or retail software.

  • Ability to work a varied and flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays.

  • Ability to lift 25 pounds.

  • Willingness and availability to work a varied schedule that may include shifts on Wednesdays through Sundays, holidays, and occasional Mondays and Tuesdays, and evenings.

  • Retail sales and admissions experience in a museum/historic site.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Previous experience mentoring, coaching, training and providing work direction for staff or volunteers.

  • Experience with Shopify and Google Suites.

  • Previous Lead experience in a Retail sales and/or admissions setting.

  • Knowledge of retail display and marketing techniques.

  • Knowledge of Minnesota Historical Society programs and services.

  • Ability to troubleshoot software, hardware and point-of-sale issues.

Should you have questions with the application process, email humanresources@mnhs.org or call MNHS Job Line at 651-259-3181.


At MNHS, we don’t just accept difference — we celebrate it, we support it, and we thrive on diversity for the benefit of our employees, our products and services, and our community. The Minnesota Historical Society believes that an inclusive culture among our team members is critical to our success as a historical society and museum, and we seek to recruit, develop and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool. The Minnesota Historical Society is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and employer.