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Local Historian Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

On-Call Architectural Historian

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$25.32 - $42.26/hr

Remote research, drafting historic contexts, report writing, and resource evaluation based on NRHP, CHRH, and/or local regulations. * Work directly with other architectural historians, archaeologists ...

Architectural Historian

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$93K - $116K/yr

LSA is seeking an Architectural Historian to work on a salary or hourly, project-hire basis in its ... Complete evaluations using national, State, and local significance criteria * Prepare cultural and ...

Architectural Historian

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$93K - $116K/yr

LSA is seeking an Architectural Historian to work on a salary or hourly, project-hire basis in its ... Complete evaluations using national, State, and local significance criteria * Prepare cultural and ...

Automation Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

The scope of support includes process data historians, processing, and/or building management ... in compliance with CAL OSHA and other local, state, and federal regulatory agencies.

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Local Historian information

What are common challenges faced by local historians in verifying historical information?

Local historians often encounter challenges such as limited access to primary sources, incomplete or conflicting records, and oral histories that may lack documentation. Verifying historical information frequently requires cross-referencing multiple sources, consulting archives, and engaging with local communities to piece together accurate narratives. Developing strong research skills and building relationships with libraries, museums, and longtime residents can help local historians overcome these obstacles and enhance the reliability of their work.

What is a local historian?

Local historians are individuals who research, document, and interpret the history of a specific geographic area, such as a town, city, or region. They collect and analyze historical records, oral histories, photographs, and artifacts to preserve the unique heritage of their community. Local historians often work with museums, archives, schools, or historical societies, and may write articles or books, create exhibitions, or give public talks. Their work helps foster a sense of identity and continuity by connecting present-day residents with their community's past.

What is the difference between Local Historian vs Museum Curator?

AspectLocal HistorianMuseum Curator
Required CredentialsHistory degree, research skillsHistory, museum studies, or related field
Work EnvironmentCommunity events, archives, local sitesMuseums, galleries, exhibit planning
Employer & IndustryHistorical societies, local governmentMuseums, cultural institutions
Search & Comparison IntentHistorical research, local historyExhibit curation, collection management

While both roles involve history and research, a Local Historian focuses on researching and sharing local history within communities, often engaging with the public and archives. A Museum Curator manages collections, designs exhibits, and works within museum settings. The roles overlap in historical knowledge but differ in work environment and specific responsibilities.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a local historian?

To thrive as a Local Historian, you need a strong background in history, research methods, and archival management, often supported by a degree in history or related fields. Familiarity with digital archives, genealogical databases, and historical mapping tools is commonly required. Exceptional analytical thinking, curiosity, and strong written and verbal communication skills help set outstanding local historians apart. These competencies ensure accurate preservation, interpretation, and sharing of local heritage with both the community and wider audiences.
What are the most commonly searched types of Historian jobs in California? The most popular types of Historian jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Local Historian jobs in California? For Local Historian jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Local Historian jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Local Historian jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Local Historian jobs? Cities in California with the most Local Historian job openings:
Infographic showing various Local Historian job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

STATE HISTORIAN II

Department of Parks & Recreation

Sacramento, CA โ€ข On-site

$6.6K - $8.3K/mo

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

STATE HISTORIAN II- OFFICE OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION / ARCHITECTURE, REGISTRATION AND REVIEW UNIT/ SACRAMENTO
The reporting location for this position is the Office of Historic Preservation in Sacramento, CA. This position will work under the direction of the State Historian III.
Under the direction of the State Historian III in the Architecture Registration and Project Review Unit, the incumbent operates at the full journey level performing the more difficult and complex work in cultural resources management and historical research mandated for the Office of Historic Preservation by applying both federal and state rules, regulations, guidelines, and best practices. The State Historian II reviews and comments on, or prepares, documents that deal with historic properties identification, evaluation, and treatment and ensures compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, the California Public Resources Code Part 5024 and 5024.5. Duties include communication and consultations with representatives of federal, state, and local governmental agencies, tribal nations and communities, the private sector, the public, and professionals in historic preservation.
Training and Development Assignments may be considered.
This position is designated as telework eligible-remote centered.
State housing is not available. For further information regarding this position, please contact Megan Borthwick at (916) 445-7000 or at Megan.Borthwick@parks.ca.gov .
This recruitment may be used to fill identical vacancies which may occur within 180 days of the Final Filing Date of this job posting.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
Office environment. The incumbent would work in a climate-controlled office under artificial lighting and be required to sit for long periods using a keyboard and video display terminal.
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • STATE HISTORIAN II
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-527425
Position #(s):
549-084-2800-001
549-084-2800-014
Working Title:
STATE HISTORIAN II
Classification:
STATE HISTORIAN II $6,680.00 - $8,363.00
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
Multiple
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Facility:
CA Office of Historic Preservation
Department Information
The mission of California State Parks is to provide for the health, inspiration, and education of the people of California by helping to preserve the state's extraordinary biological diversity, protecting its most valued natural and cultural resources, and creating opportunities for high-quality outdoor recreation.
All employees are responsible for contributing to an inclusive, safe, and secure work environment that values diverse cultures, perspectives, and experiences, and is free from discrimination.
Department Website: http://www.parks.ca.gov
Special Requirements
Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) is a discussion of how an applicant's education, training, experience, and skills meet the criteria in the duty statement and qualify the applicant for the position.
The SOQ shall be titled "Statement of Qualifications - (Your full name)." Please limit your SOQ to a maximum of 1 page, 11-point Arial font, and 1-inch margins. Applicants who do not follow these requirements may be disqualified from the examination.
  • Please describe the role and responsibilities of the lead federal agency in the Section 106 process.

  • Failure to include and complete the SOQ may result in disqualification for interview.
    Candidates that believe they meet the Minimum qualifications based on a pattern of education from the classification description (specifications) must provide a copy of your degree/transcripts and/or license along with your application (STD. 678) to be considered for this position. If selected for the position official sealed transcripts will be required prior to appointment.
    DO NOT include any confidential information to your application or supporting documents (i.e., Social Security Number, birthdate, marital status, medical information, examination results, method of eligibility, etc.)
    SROA/SURPLUS Applicants: You must check the SROA/Surplus as your claimed method of eligibility and attach your SROA/Surplus letter as an additional document.
    Application Instructions
    Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
    Final Filing Date: 8/25/2026
    Who May Apply
    Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply. Individuals who are eligible for a Training and Development assignment may also be considered for this position(s). Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
    How To Apply
    Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
    Address for Mailing Application Packages
    You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
    Department of Parks & Recreation
    Administrative Services Division
    Attn: Classification and Hiring Unit
    P.O. Box 942896
    Sacramento , CA 94296-0001
    Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
    You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
    Department of Parks & Recreation
    Administrative Services Division
    Classification and Hiring Unit
    715 P Street
    Sacramento , CA 95814
    08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
    Required Application Package Documents
    The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
    • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
    • Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
    • Statement of Qualifications - Please see "Special Requirements".
    Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
    Benefits Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
    Contact Information
    The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
    Department Website: http://www.parks.ca.gov
    Hiring Unit Contact:
    Megan Borthwick
    (916) 445-7000
    Megan.Borthwick@parks.ca.gov
    Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
    EEO Contact:
    Sharon Comas - EEO Office
    (916) 653-9990
    sharon.comas@parks.ca.gov
    California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
    Additional Instructions
    If submitting your completed Application Package by mail or hand delivery, you must include the Position # 549-084-2800-014 and the Job Control # JC-527425 in the "Examination or Job Title for which you are applying" section on the STD. 678.
    Note: If you are applying for multiple positions, you must complete a STD. 678 for each position separately. Incomplete applications or applications received with multiple positions listed on one application will not be considered.
    Employment History on the STD 678 must be complete and include dates, accurate hours per week, total time worked, duties and responsibilities, and contact names and phone numbers of supervisors. Failure to submit a completed STD 678 may result in you being screened out. Only the most qualified candidates will be invited to an interview.
    Eligibility Information
    To be appointed you must satisfy one of the following requirements:
    1. List Eligibility - Successfully complete the civil service exam for STATE HISTORIAN II here.
    2. Transfer Eligibility - Must have current employment with the State of California in the same classification or in a classification that is comparable. If in a different classification, you must meet the minimum qualifications (see Minimum Qualifications section and associated links above).
    3. Reinstatement Eligibility - Previously obtained permanent employment with the State of California in the same classification or in a classification that is comparable. If in a different classification, you must meet the minimum qualifications (see Minimum Qualifications section and associated links above).
    In some special circumstances, candidates who meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position, but who do not have one of the types of eligibility listed above, may be hired. However, this is rare, and the preferred method of appointment is through eligibility as described above.
    Equal Opportunity Employer
    The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
    It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.