Senior Historian

Colonial Williamsburg Foundation•Williamsburg, VA

26d

About The Position

The Senior Historian conducts and leads historical research that informs and shapes the Foundation’s interpretive program. They train and advise interpretive staff and serve as a subject matter expert in designated areas of early American history. The role develops research strategies, initiates major research initiatives, and functions as a primary authority within their area of expertise.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Early American History, American Studies, or a closely related field and six (6) years of directly relevant professional experience; OR
Master’s degree in Early American History, American Studies, or a closely related field and four (4) years of directly relevant professional experience.
Experience writing on historical topics for public and academic audiences.
Must reside in or be ready to relocate to Virginia

Nice To Haves

A doctorate or terminal degree with academic specialization in History, American Studies, or a related field.
Significant experience conducting advanced/scholarly historical research in a museum or in an academically related position.
Three or more years’ experience teaching as instructor of record at the collegiate or secondary level.
Experience working in historical interpretive environment, such as a living history museum or equivalent.

Responsibilities

Serves as a senior leader on research teams supporting major institutional initiatives, as assigned by the Director of Historical Research.
Conducts and directs historical research in support of interpretive strategy, institutional priorities, and the Foundation’s educational mission.
Presents research findings through lectures, audio-visual presentations, tours, reports, memoranda, conference papers, articles, book chapters, monographs, professional blogs, and other public or scholarly forums.
Leads assigned historical research projects, ensuring timely completion and adherence to budget parameters; provides guidance and indirect oversight to research assistants, associates, fellows, interns, and volunteers.
Recommends and develops new research initiatives aligned with Foundation objectives and strategic priorities.
Maintains active professional relationships with external scholars and researchers within areas of specialization.
Responds to complex historical inquiries; critiques scholarly works; monitors emerging scholarship and interpretive methodologies; and integrates current research into institutional programming.
Consults with program development teams, site managers, and interpretive staff to ensure programming, character development, tours, and educational content reflect current scholarship and best practices.
Collaborates with colleagues to develop and deliver training courses within assigned areas of expertise.
Represents the Division on assigned committees, providing expert historical perspective.
Reviews print and digital materials published by the Foundation to ensure accuracy and scholarly integrity.
Performs other related duties as assigned.