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$28K

$50.8K

$69.5K

How much do historical society jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 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?

States with the most job openings for Historical Society jobs include:

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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 2% Internship, 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 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.

Chief Executive Officer

SD Historical Society Foundation

Madison, SD

$85K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Work collaboratively with the Board to identify philanthropic opportunities and advance fundraising priorities.

  • Personally cultivate and solicit leadership gifts, building lasting relationships with donors.

  • Provide leadership and oversight for the Heritage Stores and Badger Hole operations, including retail management, marketing, and related revenue generating activities.

Job description

About the South Dakota Historical Society Foundation
The South Dakota Historical Society Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of South Dakota. As the fundraising partner of the South Dakota State Historical Society, the Foundation secures private philanthropic support for statewide programs in archaeology, archives, historic preservation, museum exhibits, research, and publishing.

The Foundation is completing a transformational capital campaign to renovate the South Dakota State Museum while expanding annual giving, planned giving, endowment development, membership, and strategic partnerships across South Dakota.

Position Summary
Reporting to the Board of Directors (Board), the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) serves as the Foundation's chief philanthropy leader responsible for the organization's long-term sustainability through philanthropy, governance, and effective management.

Primary Responsibilities

  • Work collaboratively with the Board to identify philanthropic opportunities and advance fundraising priorities.

  • Personally cultivate and solicit leadership gifts, building lasting relationships with donors.

  • Ensure sound financial stewardship through effective budgeting, financial planning, and investment oversight, working closely with the finance committee and Board.

  • Maintain appropriate internal controls, financial oversight, and separation of duties by working closely with the staff, Board and finance committee.

  • Monitor investments, endowments, cash flow, and financial performance, ensuring compliance with Foundation policies and nonprofit best practices.

  • Partner with the Board to establish strategic priorities, implement goals, evaluate performance, and recommend strategies that strengthen long-term success.

  • Provide leadership and oversight for the Heritage Stores and Badger Hole operations, including retail management, marketing, and related revenue generating activities.

  • Work with staff, the Board and volunteers to strengthen membership in the South Dakota State Historical Society.

  • Recruit, develop, supervise, and evaluate Foundation staff.

  • Serve as the Foundation's principal spokesperson and ambassador to strengthen public awareness and support for the mission.

  • Provide leadership for Foundation operations, technology, communications, and administrative systems.

Preferred Qualifications
The successful candidate is an accomplished relationship builder with executive leadership experience, sound judgment, and a demonstrated commitment to philanthropy and South Dakota history.

Experience

  • Executive or senior leadership experience in nonprofit management, philanthropy, business, higher education, or a related field.

  • Demonstrated success leading comprehensive fundraising efforts and cultivating significant philanthropic support.

  • Experience managing organizational budgets, financial planning, and staff leadership.

  • Experience working effectively with governing boards.

Work Location: The Foundation offers flexibility in work location. CEO may reside anywhere in South Dakota provided they are able to travel regularly throughout the state and maintain a consistent in person presence at the Foundation's Pierre office. Residence in the Pierre area is encouraged.

Salary: $85,000 to $95,000, depending on qualifications and experience.

Benefits include:

  • Paid vacation (160 hours annually)

  • Paid sick leave (accrued daily)

  • Paid holidays (10 days)

  • 5% employer match to 403(b) retirement plan

  • Health care stipend

  • Professional development opportunities

  • Flexible work environment

  • Performance bonus, subject to annual Board approval

To Apply:
Submit a cover letter, résumé, and salary requirements

Priority consideration will be given to applications received by September 30, 2026.


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