How to Be Historical Documentation Specialist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Oct 29, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The need for Historical Documentation Specialists has grown in recent years, due to an increased focus on preserving and documenting cultural heritage. With the rise of digital media, access to documents and artifacts has become easier, creating a greater need for experts who specialize in organizing and analyzing historical records. Historical Documentation Specialists are able to identify and preserve primary sources, analyze them, and provide context and insight into the past.

This is important for understanding how people lived and how events unfolded, which can provide valuable insight into current events, trends, and culture. As a result, the demand for Historical Documentation Specialists is expected to continue growing in the coming years.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelor's Degree. A bachelor's degree in history, library science, or a related field is typically required to become a historical documentation specialist. Courses in archival methods, history, and library science are included in the curriculum.
Gain Hands-on Experience. Many employers seek individuals who have prior experience working in archives, museums, libraries, or similar environments. Consider volunteering or securing an internship at a local museum or library to gain some valuable hands-on experience.
Take Archival Courses. Historical documentation specialists must possess a thorough understanding of archival processes and methods. Consider taking some archival courses to further increase your knowledge and skills in this area.
Consider Earning a Master's Degree. Some employers may require a master's degree in library science, history, or a related field. A master's degree program may also include courses in archival methods and digital preservation.
Obtain Professional Certification. Professional certification is not required to become a historical documentation specialist; however, it can demonstrate your commitment to the profession and your expertise in the field. The Academy of Certified Archivists offers certification for those who meet certain requirements.

The advancement of technology has caused a rapid evolution of the way that Historical Documentation Specialists must stay updated and capable. In order to remain competitive in the industry, they must stay abreast of the latest developments in archival practices, research methods, and digital preservation technologies. Furthermore, they must be knowledgeable in current software programs and have the ability to quickly learn new software applications.

they must be willing to attend workshops and seminars that are related to their specialty. All of these elements combined ensure that Historical Documentation Specialists remain up-to-date and capable.

You may want to check Environmental Historian, Art Historian, and Digital Historian for alternative.

Job Description

Research and Documentation Coordinator
Historical Records Analyst
Historical Archivist
Historical Preservation Specialist
Historical Curator
Historical Photography Specialist
Oral History Specialist
Museum Education Specialist
Historical Records Manager
Historical Collection Manager

Skills and Competencies to Have

Comprehensive knowledge of historical research methods and techniques
Ability to evaluate the accuracy and reliability of historical documents
Familiarity with archival and library information systems
Understanding of copyright law and intellectual property rights
Proficient data-entry and computer skills
Excellent writing, editing and proofreading skills
Attention to detail and accuracy
Ability to work independently and with a team
Ability to meet deadlines while maintaining quality standards
Knowledge of current trends in digital preservation

Historical Documentation Specialists are essential to preserving the past for future generations. Their role is to research and document historical facts, people, and events to provide an accurate narrative of our collective history. To be successful in this profession, an individual must have a range of skills, but the most important one is the ability to analyze data and draw conclusions from it.

This requires the ability to interpret documents, assess the accuracy of sources, and identify the relationships between different entities. In addition, strong research and writing skills are essential in order to ensure that any documents produced are accurate and complete. As a result of their work, Historical Documentation Specialists can provide valuable insight into the past that can help us better understand the present.

Religious Historian, Oral Historian, and Political Historian are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have with historical documentation?
What methods do you use to accurately document history?
How do you ensure accuracy of the information in historical documents?
What techniques do you use to organize and store historical documents?
How have you used the latest technology to present historical information?
What strategies have you used to make historical documents accessible for a wide range of audiences?
How do you maintain the authenticity of historical documents?
What challenges have you faced while compiling historical documentation?
Describe a time when you had to work with limited resources while conducting historical documentation research.
How do you balance accuracy, completeness, and timeliness when creating historical documents?

Common Tools in Industry

Document Management Software. A software program used to store and organize documents, such as contracts, invoices, letters, and emails. (eg: Microsoft SharePoint)
Optical Character Recognition (OCR) Software. A program that converts scanned images of printed text into editable digital text. (eg: Abbyy FineReader)
Data Analysis Software. A program used to analyze large datasets to identify patterns and trends. (eg: Tableau)
Archival Management Software. A software program used to store, organize, and manage historical records in an accessible manner. (eg: PastPerfect)
Digital Imaging Software. A program that processes digital images, allowing users to adjust color, contrast, brightness, and other elements of the image. (eg: Adobe Photoshop)
Metadata Creation Tools. Tools designed to create and manage metadata associated with digital documents. (eg: ExifTool)

Professional Organizations to Know

Society of American Archivists
National Council on Public History
Association of Canadian Archivists
International Council on Archives
International Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works
International Association of Sound and Audiovisual Archives
National Coalition for History
American Association for State and Local History
Association of Moving Image Archivists
Association of Personal Historians

We also have Visual Historian, Genealogical Researcher, and Paleontological Historian jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Primary Sources. Primary sources are original documents or records used to inform historical research. They can include diaries, letters, photographs, interviews, government documents, and archaeological artifacts.
Secondary Sources. Secondary sources are interpretations of primary sources by historians and other scholars. These can include books, articles, and videos.
Historiography. Historiography is the study of the writing of history. It involves analyzing the works of historians and examining their interpretations of events.
Historiographical Debates. Historiographical debates are disagreements between historians over interpretations of primary sources. They are important for developing new understandings of the past.
Historical Context. Historical context is the broader social, political, and economic environment in which an event happened. It is critical for understanding the significance of an event.
Oral History. Oral history is the recording of interviews with people who experienced an event first-hand. It is a valuable tool for understanding how people experienced the past.
Documentary Evidence. Documentary evidence is material evidence such as official records, eyewitness accounts, and other written records used to support an argument or interpretation.
Chronology. Chronology is the ordering of events in time. It is important for understanding the sequence of events and how one event may have led to another.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Historical Documentation Specialist?

A Historical Documentation Specialist is a professional who specializes in researching, preserving and interpreting historical records and artifacts.

What qualifications are required to become a Historical Documentation Specialist?

To become a Historical Documentation Specialist, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in history, museum studies, archives management or a related field, as well as experience working in a museum, library or archive.

What duties does a Historical Documentation Specialist typically perform?

Historical Documentation Specialists typically perform duties such as collecting and preserving historical documents, artifacts and records; researching and interpreting historical information; and preparing exhibits, reports and presentations.

How much does a Historical Documentation Specialist typically earn?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for a Historical Documentation Specialist is $47,370 as of May 2019.

What type of work environment does a Historical Documentation Specialist typically work in?

Historical Documentation Specialists typically work in museums, libraries, archives and other organizations dedicated to preserving and interpreting history.