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Public History Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nwmissouri

Assistant Professor of History

Maryville, MO ยท On-site

$56K/yr

S. history, public history, and the candidate's area of historical specialization. * Direct the undergraduate minor in Public History and Museum Studies. * Supervise and mentor students in hands-on ...

H Net

$65 - $90/hr

S./Public History The Department of History at the University of South Alabama invites applications for a full-time (9 month), tenure-track Assistant Professor position in early U.S./Public History ...

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$28K

$107.5K

$184.5K

How much do public history jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for public history in the United States is $107,533.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $134,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a public history?

A Public History job involves applying historical research and interpretation outside of traditional academic settings. Public historians work in museums, archives, historic sites, government agencies, and nonprofits, helping to preserve and communicate history to the public. Their tasks may include curating exhibits, managing collections, conducting oral histories, or developing educational programs. Public historians also contribute to historic preservation, policy advising, and digital history projects. The field bridges scholarly research with public engagement, making history accessible and relevant to diverse audiences.

What are typical daily responsibilities for someone working in public history?

Professionals in public history often engage in researching and interpreting historical topics, developing exhibits or educational programs, and curating collections for museums or historic sites. You may work on gathering oral histories, digitizing archival materials, or leading public tours and community events. Collaboration is common with curators, educators, researchers, and volunteers to ensure accurate and engaging public presentations. The role is both intellectually stimulating and highly interactive, often involving outreach to engage diverse community groups. As a result, public historians play a vital role in making history accessible and relevant beyond academic settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in public history, and why are they important?

To thrive in Public History, you need a solid understanding of historical research methods, public engagement strategies, and often a relevant degree such as public history, museum studies, or archival science. Familiarity with digital archives, collections management software, and interpretive exhibit tools is frequently required. Outstanding communication, collaboration, and project management abilities help professionals share history effectively with diverse audiences. These skills ensure accurate historical interpretation, engaging educational experiences, and successful outreach in museum, archival, or cultural heritage settings.

How to get a job in public history?

To get a job in public history, candidates typically need a relevant degree such as a master's in history, public history, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships, volunteering, or working at museums, archives, or historic sites is important, along with developing skills in research, communication, and public engagement. Familiarity with digital tools and strong writing abilities can also enhance job prospects in this field.

Is a public history degree worth it?

A public history degree prepares individuals for careers in museums, archives, and cultural organizations by developing skills in research, interpretation, and public engagement. While job prospects can vary, the degree can enhance employability in these fields, especially when combined with internships or practical experience.

What can you do with a public history degree?

A public history degree prepares individuals for careers in museums, archives, historic preservation, and cultural resource management. Graduates often work as museum curators, historic site managers, archivists, or public educators, utilizing research, communication, and preservation skills in various settings.

What does a public history do?

A public historian applies historical knowledge to engage the public through museums, archives, historic sites, and community programs. They research, interpret, and communicate history to diverse audiences, often using storytelling, exhibits, and educational activities to make history accessible and relevant.
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Public History jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public History job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, and 60% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $107,533 per year, or $51.7 per hour.