Historical Researcher (Ottawa)

Know History; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A historical research organization in Ottawa is seeking a Historical Researcher for a contract position until March 2026. The role involves providing research analysis and writing in support of clients, including museums and Indigenous communities. Responsibilities include genealogical research, archival file reviews, and data processing. The ideal candidate should have an MA degree in a relevant field, strong knowledge of historical documents, and excellent communication skills. This is a full-time in-office role offering a starting compensation of $25/hour.

Benefits

State-of-the-art equipment

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience conducting genealogical and archival file reviews.
• Strong knowledge of historic documents and their repositories.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality with sensitive information.

Responsibilities

• Conduct genealogical and archival file review.
• Provide research support including data processing and filing.
• Conduct archival document identification and collection.

Skills

Genealogical research

Archival document identification

Data processing

Communication skills

Microsoft Office proficiency

Attention to detail

Education

MA degree in History or Indigenous Studies

Job description

Historical Researcher (Ottawa) Know History•Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

We’re seeking a Historical Researcher to join our Ottawa office for a contract position until end of March 2026.

As a Historical Researcher you’ll work alongside project managers and team members to provide historical research analysis and writing services in support of clients. Our services capture many of the unique stories that make up our past inform our present and inspire the future. We have worked with museums, Indigenous communities and clients such as non‑profits, government bodies and corporations on a variety of projects both large and small. This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate looking to get their feet wet in the world of history.

Using historical research methodologies and technical writing skills, you’ll conduct genealogical and archival file review, collect and process historical records, enter data, and report on your findings in databases. Other tasks include quality assurance, digitization and transcription of written and oral records, support project administration and writing research summaries for deliverables. We’re looking for someone that is a team player, a quick learner and most importantly passionate about history!

Responsibilities & Duties

• Conduct genealogical and archival file review.
• Provide research support including document management, data processing, filing and copying files.
• Conduct archival document identification, collection and digitization.
• Conduct genealogical research in databases and digital repositories.
• Transcribe written and oral records.
• Support project administration (creating delivery lists, updating and maintaining project standards and other similar tasks).
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of process‑driven research methodologies.
• Assist with quality assurance and Burden of Proof assessments.
• Update and maintain research databases.

Preferred Skills & Qualifications

• Experience using databases for conducting data entry and historical research.
• Strong knowledge of or prior experience with genealogical and historic documents and their corresponding repositories.
• Comfortable using Microsoft Office or a similar suite of office software.
• Demonstrated verbal and written communication skills (plain language writing is essential!).
• Strong knowledge of or prior experience working with First Nations, Inuit and Métis history and communities is an asset.
• Ability to follow workflows and guidelines.
• Ability to work with sensitive information with complete confidentiality and attention to detail.
• Completion of an MA degree in a relevant field such as History, Indigenous Studies etc. or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• English is the working language; however knowledge of an Indigenous language(s) or French is an asset.

Additional Position Details

• Length: This is a contract position until end of March 2026.
• Hours: Full‑time with flexible hours.
• Compensation: Starting at $25/h.
• Location: Ottawa, Ontario (in office).
• Other: State‑of‑the‑art equipment are provided (e.g., laptop, dual monitor, peripherals) and team members are also provided other resources, facilities, professional development opportunities etc.

How to Apply

If you are interested in joining Know History’s team for this role please submit your resume online. History is committed to providing equal employment opportunities. We know that in order to understand our collective history we need to prioritize Indigenous and diverse voices across all aspects of our organization. We strongly encourage candidates to apply and self‑identify if they are Indigenous members of racialized communities, visible minorities, people with disabilities, or people of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression.

We are dedicated to providing an inclusive and supportive environment. If you have any questions or require accessibility or cultural accommodations at any point in the application process, send us an email and we’ll work with you to make sure your needs are met.