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Public Records Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$90 - $120/hr

Performs complex legal research involving state and federal case-law, statutes, regulations ... Review appeals from public records requesters who have been denied access to government records;

Conduct records research and data compilation. Perform file management functions to ensure public records retention. Copy or scan records as needed. Ability to review documents for accuracy ...

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Public Records Researcher information

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$16

$26

$37

How much do public records researcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for public records researcher in the United States is $26.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $36.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a public records researcher do?

A Public Records Researcher is responsible for locating, retrieving, and analyzing public records from various sources such as government databases, court records, property records, and more. They often work for law firms, investigative agencies, or companies needing background checks, due diligence, or verification services. Their work involves ensuring the accuracy and completeness of the information, often requiring attention to detail and strong research skills. Public Records Researchers must also be familiar with privacy laws and regulations governing access to certain types of records.

What does a public records researcher do?

A public records researcher uses publicly-available resources to gather data or verify information. Your duties in this career usually include finding information, but your employer may also expect you to input it into a database or compose a report based on your findings. Depending on your job responsibilities, you may also need to interpret the information in the public records for your client or employer. A public records researcher may work for a law firm, real estate company, investigation service, insurance company, or human resources department, where you verify the credentials of employees and job applicants.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public records researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Records Researcher, you need strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of legal and governmental record-keeping systems, often supported by a relevant degree or background in research. Familiarity with online databases, public records portals, and research management software is typically required. Excellent organizational skills, persistence, and effective communication set standout researchers apart. These skills ensure accurate, efficient retrieval and verification of information, which is critical for legal, investigative, or compliance purposes.

What are some common challenges faced by public records researchers, and how can they be addressed?

Public Records Researchers often encounter challenges such as navigating complex databases, dealing with incomplete or outdated records, and managing tight deadlines. Successfully overcoming these challenges requires strong attention to detail, persistence in verifying information, and adaptability to various governmental systems. Building relationships with local agencies and continuously updating one’s knowledge of public records access laws can also help streamline the research process and improve efficiency.

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Infographic showing various Public Records Researcher job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,715 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Research Analyst I - Public Records Unit

Department of State Police

Milford, MA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

The Public Records Unit (PRU) Research Analyst I coordinates and tracks timely and appropriate responses to public records requests, court requests, subpoenas, agency requests, and Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests received by the Massachusetts State Police (MSP) that are related to the BWC Program.
Duties:
Processing and preparing responses to outside requests for information related to the MSP BWC Program, which includes court requests, subpoenas, agency requests, and FOIA and Massachusetts Public Record requests. Ensuring responses are provided in a timely fashion, adhere to state and federal statutes, and are recorded according to departmental protocol.
Communicating with and providing good "customer service" to public or other records/video requestors.
Collaborating with the MSP divisions to identify, review, and assemble responsive records/video.
Identifying and redacting confidential, privileged, private, or exempt documents/video or parts thereof.
Preparing draft response letters to requestors.
Maintaining information in a systematic way and performing measures to substantiate compliance with the Public Records Law, MSP standards, and records retention requirements.
Monitoring status of outstanding public or other records requests.
Performs related duties as required.
Preferred Qualifications:
Knowledge of how to conduct research by retrieving information from electronic and hard files.
Knowledge of basic administrative processes, practices, and procedures.
Knowledge of laws, rules and regulations pertaining to records retention and the release of information.
Ability to use information technology resources, formulas, and analytical tools to generate reports, letters, memoranda and related business documents.
Ability to communicate effectively with colleagues, superiors and the public via oral and written means.
Ability to show discretion and maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information.
Ability to summarize how research and analytical information was obtained through summary statistics or visuals.
Qualifications:
First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days. MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS: Applicants must have (A) at least two (2) years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, administrative, professional or technical experience in work involving research, data analysis, compliance, records management or program administration, or (B) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below. Incumbents may be required to have a current and valid motor vehicle driver's license at a class level specific to assignment. Substitutions: I. A Bachelor's degree or higher in a related field may be substituted for the required experience.
Comprehensive Benefits
When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!
An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.