Content Writer – Contextual Content African American

Ancestry

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

Ancestry seeks a part-time, contract-based Content Writer with African American writing experience and specialized African American genealogy and historical research expertise. The writer will join the Contextual Content team to support collection description updates, new collection launches, and StoryScout story development. The role aims to improve content accuracy, genealogical nuance, depth, and user engagement while streamlining production and reducing review cycles.

The writer will collaborate with the Editor and Program Manager to develop and revise assignments, conduct historical research, and create content in multiple formats, including record descriptions, personalized stories based on historical records, and blog posts. Each assignment must follow style guidelines, meet quality and tone standards, align with department goals and values, demonstrate audience awareness, and support factual claims with thorough research. Assignments must be completed by deadlines, and status updates or reports must be provided when requested.

This is a part-time contract position and is not eligible for Ancestry benefits. Compensation is based on a published-piece rate ranging from $25 to $155 per piece.

Requirements

• Experience with African American writing.
• Specialized African American genealogy and historical research expertise.
• Strong writing abilities and historical research skills.
• Experience writing about historical events.
• Experience writing about sensitive topics.
• Excellent writing and editing skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret and implement guidelines and standards.
• Demonstrated ability to adhere to a style guide and tone.
• Strong internet and research skills.
• Attention to detail and accuracy.
• Demonstrated self-starter.
• Background in family history.

Nice To Haves

• A degree in history, English, journalism, or a related field, or equivalent professional writing experience; a degree is preferred.
• Background in African American studies, Latin American studies, Native American studies, Asian American studies, American studies, British studies, French studies, European studies, or Australian studies.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with the Editor and Program Manager to revise and develop writing assignments through completion.
• Conduct in-depth historical research to support each assignment.
• Write record descriptions, stories incorporating personalization from historical records, and blog posts.
• Follow style guidelines and maintain consistent quality and tone while aligning work with department goals and values and demonstrating audience awareness.
• Ensure facts and information are supported by thorough research.
• Complete writing assignments by submission deadlines.
• Provide status updates and reports to the Editor and Program Manager as requested.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Education Level: No Education Listed