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Public Historian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Morgan County Utah

HISTORIAN

Morgan, UT

The Historian provides basic research assistance to staff and the public, supports the development of historical displays, and assists with budget needs related to historical collections. Work is ...

New

Morgan County

HISTORIAN

Morgan, UT · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

The Historian provides basic research assistance to staff and the public, supports the development of historical displays, and assists with budget needs related to historical collections. Work is ...

347 Group, Inc.

Architectural Historian

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$52K - $68K/yr

Master of Arts (evidence of completion or nearly completed) in Historic Preservation, Public ... Compensation based on experience. (Architectural, Historian, GIS, Historic Preservation, Cultural ...

Timmons Group

Architectural Historian

Richmond, VA · On-site

The Architectural Historian is responsible for conducting investigations involving historic ... and the public. * Ability to work on simultaneous tasks while meeting project deadlines and ...

Olsson

Architectural Historian

Kansas City, KS

Public Engagement and Outreach:  Organizing public meetings and workshops to gather community ... Historian * Practical experience in archaeological or historical research, cultural resource ...

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Public Historian information

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$30.5K

$86.3K

$137.5K

How much do public historian jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for public historian in the United States is $86,335.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $105,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are public historians?

Public historians are professionals who interpret and present history to the public outside of traditional academic settings. They work in museums, archives, historic sites, government agencies, and community organizations, making history accessible and relevant to diverse audiences. Public historians often engage in activities such as curation, exhibit design, oral history projects, and educational programming. Their work helps communities understand and connect with their past, ensuring that history is preserved and communicated in meaningful ways.

What profession makes $400,000 a year?

In the field of public history, salaries typically range from moderate to high, but earning $400,000 annually is uncommon and usually associated with top executives or specialized consultants in related fields. Highly experienced professionals with advanced degrees, leadership roles, or those working in private consulting firms may reach such income levels. Most public historians earn significantly less, often between $50,000 and $100,000 per year.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

Public historians typically do not earn $10,000 a month without advanced degrees or extensive experience. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include roles like sales managers, real estate brokers, or skilled trades such as electricians or plumbers, which rely on experience, certifications, and skills rather than formal education. These positions may require licensing or specialized training but can offer substantial income based on performance and market demand.

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

To thrive as a Public Historian, you need expertise in historical research, interpretation, and public engagement, typically supported by an advanced degree in history or public history. Experience with digital archives, museum collection software, and project management tools is often required, along with knowledge of preservation standards. Exceptional communication, collaboration, and storytelling skills help public historians make history accessible and relevant to diverse audiences. These competencies are vital for preserving historical integrity while engaging the public and supporting educational outreach.

What can I do with a public history degree?

A public historian can work in museums, archives, historic sites, or government agencies, focusing on preserving and interpreting history for the public. They often develop exhibits, educational programs, and manage collections, requiring skills in research, communication, and often familiarity with digital tools. Careers in this field typically involve project management, public engagement, and may require relevant certifications or advanced degrees.

What does a public historian do?

A public historian researches, interprets, and presents historical information to the public through museums, archives, historic sites, and educational programs. They often use research skills, storytelling, and communication tools to make history accessible and engaging for diverse audiences.

What is the difference between Public Historian vs Museum Curator?

AspectPublic HistorianMuseum Curator
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in History, Public History, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Museum Studies, History, or related field
Work EnvironmentHistorical sites, government agencies, community organizationsMuseums, galleries, cultural institutions
Employer & Industry UsagePublic history projects, educational programs, archivesExhibition planning, collection management, curation

Public Historians focus on making history accessible to the public through education, outreach, and preservation projects, often working in community or government settings. Museum Curators primarily manage collections, develop exhibitions, and oversee museum operations. While both roles require history-related credentials and involve public engagement, Public Historians emphasize community-based projects, whereas Museum Curators concentrate on collection and exhibit management.

What are some typical challenges public historians face when working with diverse community groups on historical projects?

Public historians often collaborate with a wide range of community groups, each with their own perspectives and interests regarding historical interpretation. A common challenge is balancing differing viewpoints and ensuring that all voices are represented accurately and respectfully. Effective public historians must employ strong communication and facilitation skills to build trust, navigate sensitive topics, and mediate conflicts. This collaborative approach not only enriches the historical narrative but also fosters meaningful community engagement and learning.
More about Public Historian jobs
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Public Historian jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Historian job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,335 per year, or $41.5 per hour.
Part Time Public Historian

Part Time Public Historian

City of Grand Prairie

Grand Prairie, TX • On-site

$22.73 - $32.96/hr

Other

Posted 16 days ago

City Of Grand Prairie rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 661 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Job Summary The city of Grand Prairie seeks a part-time (up to 20 hours a week) public historian with experience in giving tours of historic museums; curation, creation, installation, display, interpretation and storage of museum exhibits; maintenance and restoration of historic buildings and artifacts; primary and secondary research; maintenance of collections, archives and databases; and outreach, community engagement and promotion. The purpose of the position is to increase visits to and program attendance at the Grand Prairie Historical Museum by creating a positive experience for customers. In addition, the position provides professional exhibit guidance, is responsible for the operations of the museum and travelling exhibit space, for developing educational programs and museum exhibits that appeal to diverse audiences, and for providing direct customer service.

Essential Job Functions Work at Grand Prairie Historical Museum up to 20 hours a week to allow it to be open to the public, including weekend hours Schedule tours for interested parties, be a meeting host location for community organizations and offer support where you can to increase the visitor traffic to the museum. Coordinate with the community, historical and genealogical organizations to further enhance, curate and preserve history, museum and collection Manage maintenance of Historical Museum, Copeland Home and Bowles Home Coordinate Historic Marker Applications from the public Coordinate with downtown and other community events Expand promotion of museum using social media, community outreach and public appearances. Minimum Qualifications Education: A degree or work related experience in Museum Studies, Public History, or closely related field is preferred.

Experience: One year experience. Licenses: Valid Driver's License required

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