The Office of Historic Alexandria is looking for an African American History Research Historian who will research, compile, develop, and write products for two new visitor tourism experiences focused on Alexandria’s Duke Street Corridor history and Civil Rights history. These new initiatives will have both physical as well as digital products and be promoted through Historic Alexandria’s partner Visit Alexandria. Expanding Alexandria’s African American history interpretation and raising the profile of Alexandria’s nationally significant Civil Rights sites is a strategic priority for Historic Alexandria. The research and development of these projects will be done in collaboration with HBCU paid summer interns. The work of the African American History Research Historian is performed under the direct supervision of the Director of the Alexandria Black History Museum in collaboration with the City Historian, staff Archaeologists, and under the general supervision of the Director of Historic Alexandria.
About the Department
The Office of Historic Alexandria (OHA) enhances the quality of life for city residents and visitors by preserving and interpreting Alexandria's historic properties, archaeological sites, cultural resources, artifact collections, objects, archives, records, and personal stories and by encouraging audiences to recognize Alexandria’s diverse historic heritage and its place within the broader context of American history.
The Opportunity – Examples of Work
- Research, compile, develop, and write products for Duke Street Corridor and Civil Rights Tour, to include kiosks, wayfinding signs, as well as walking & driving tours
- Supervise HBCU graduate intern each summer
- Provides research assistance on Alexandria’s African American history
- Compiles statistics and prepares monthly progress reports
- Collaborates with Visit Alexandria for regional marketing
- Performs related work as required
What You Should Bring
The ideal candidate should have a thorough knowledge of regional history as well as experience with archival records and primary and secondary sources that pertain to Alexandria and the broader region. The job requires an individual with the ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing; create publishable, compelling and sound scholarship on African American history; and establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, employees of the City of Alexandria, and the community. The work will take place in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment and at local and regional archives.
- Minimum & Additional Requirements
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Bachelor's degree in history or closely related field and three years of experience in professional historical research work; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
- Preferred Qualifications
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Master’s degree in history or closely related subject and three years of experience in historical research. Minimum one year of experience in independent primary source document research. A valid driver's license and the ability to pass a required City driving class.
- Notes
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This position requires the successful completion of pre-employment background checks to include, but not limited to, a criminal background screening.
*This position is an unbenefited, limited-term position for 2 years.