Introduction The Wisconsin Historical Society , considered one of the nation's finest historical institutions, is a State of Wisconsin government agency as well as a mission-driven entrepreneurial organization. The Wisconsin Historical Society (WHS), founded in 1846, ranks as one of the largest, most active and diversified state historical societies in the nation. As both a state agency and a private membership organization, its mission is to help people connect to the past by collecting, preserving, and sharing stories. At its core, WHS believes that increasing the public's knowledge of history has profound societal, cultural, and economic benefit. Its library, archives and collections, historic sites and museums, historic preservation office, and extensive educational programs and community outreach are focused on our vision to enrich and transform lives through unparalleled access to history. Click here for more information about WHS' mission, vision, and core values.
WHS is committed to being a diverse, equitable, and inclusive organization because we truly believe this is the most effective way to attract, engage, and retain the best talent and the most meaningful way to support our mission.
Click here for more information about working for WHS.
Position Summary This position performs a range of professional research activities under the direction of the Field Coordinator. The incumbent is responsible for the management of Geographic Information System (GIS) data and preparation of illustrations/graphics for documentation of the Cultural Resource Services (WHS-CRS) research on archaeological and architectural history properties. The tasks include the preparation for and processing of field research in the form of GIS/GPS survey and mapping data, digital images/photographs, field notes and standardized forms, as well as other visual and written sources. This position is responsible for maintaining WHS-CRS mapping and illustrative standards, while creatively solving site or project specific problems. To ensure the completion of mapping and illustrations, the individual must work cooperatively with field researchers, report authors, and supervisors. The incumbent also researches and develops new ways to improve the WHS-CRS mapping and illustration processes, such as advances in mapping equipment and software, better illustrative techniques and new technologies. The GIS Technician maintains the organization and storage of completed GIS metadata, illustrations, and digital images.
On a limited basis this position may participate in WHS-CRS field research. Specifically, these duties may include archaeological and/or architectural history field work under the direction of a project leader, the Field Coordinator, and/or Director , following standard techniques, methods, and in accordance with various program and client guidelines.
This is a 4- year project position ending May 5, 2030.
Salary Information The salary will be between $24.00 - $28.00 per hour plus excellent benefits. Pay on appointment for current or former state employees may vary according to the applicable pay provisions found in the Wisconsin State Compensation Plan. This position is in pay schedule 13, range 04. The classification is Historic Preservation Specialist.
Visit this link for a calculator of State of Wisconsin benefits: https://dpm.wi.gov/Pages/Employees/RewardsCalculator.aspx
Job Details A criminal background check will be conducted prior to an offer of employment to determine if the circumstances of any conviction may be related to the job.
Interested permanent classified state employees should complete this application process to apply.
WHS does not sponsor work visas. Any appointment made will be contingent on the applicant being able to prove valid status to work in the United States.
This position works in the office or in the field.
SPECIAL NOTE: This is a 4- year project position ending May 5, 2030.
Qualifications Please make sure to describe the following qualifications within your resume and/or letter of qualifications in order to be considered for this position.
Minimally qualified candidate will have experience, education, or training in all of the following:
- Coursework in Geographic Information Systems, Cultural Resources, Geography, Geology and/or Civil Engineering.
- Experience using ESRI-based ArcGIS programs.
- E xperience using Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft Office software applications.
- E xperience using GPS surveying tools (ex. Trimble GPS).
- Knowledge of the principles, methods and techniques of geographic information systems.
- Experience reading and interpreting blueprints, engineering/construction plans, topographical maps, aerial photographs, historical plats and atlases.
In addition to minimum qualifications, a well-qualified candidate will additionally have experience in one or more of the following areas:
- Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with and to work with a diverse group which would include project coordinators, archaeologists, architectural historians, laboratory analysts, museum professionals, construction engineers and crews, and public.
- Experience visually representing information effectively and to follow the illustration process through to completion in a timely manner according to assigned schedule.
- Experience organizing and maintaining records in a consistent and usable fashion.
- Experience in historic preservation field research.
- Familiarity wit h professional, federal and state historic preservation standards, guidelines and practices.
How To Apply To apply, click "Apply for Job" to start the application process. Then, you will access your existing account or to create a new account if you don't have an account. Once you are logged in, click "Apply for Job." Follow the steps outlined in the application process and submit your application.
Your letter of qualifications and resume are very important parts of your application and are used during our evaluation process to determine your qualifications as they relate to the job. For instructions on developing your resume and letter of qualifications for your application and what should be included in these materials, click here for resume and letter of qualifications instructions. .
Submitted materials will be evaluated and the most qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the next step of the hiring process.
WHS is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer seeking a diverse and talented workforce. Veterans, women, people of color, LGBTQIA+, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. We provide reasonable accommodations to qualified applicants and employees with disabilities.
Questions may be directed to jan.zadra@wisconsinhistory.org . or (608) 264-6409.
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The State of Wisconsin offers a special program for qualified veterans with a 30% or greater service-connected disability. If you are a qualified veteran, please visit the Veterans Employment page for application instructions to be considered for the Veterans Non-Competitive Appointment program.
Deadline to Apply Applications are due at 11:59PM on July 1, 2026.
