Website Polk County History Center
MAJOR FUNCTION
Under the direction of the historic preservation manager, this position is responsible for the supervision and coordination of operations and activities of the Historical and Genealogical Library in accordance with generally accepted practices and procedures. This position fulfills the historical and genealogical research function for the county by researching, analyzing, interpreting and presenting Polk County’s past.
Key to this position is the ability to juggle various projects at once, while maintaining a clear view of how each project supports the History Center’s mission.
ILLUSTRATIVE DUTIES
Research:
Conducts historical research and analysis for Polk County government, businesses, nonprofits, historical associations, and individual residents and visitors.
Gathers historical data from various sources including archives, books and artifacts Analyzes and interprets historical information to determine its authenticity and significance Traces historical developments relating to Polk County Provides advice or guidance on historical topics and preservation issues Authors reports, articles
and books on findings and theories Provides historical context for government policy issues.
Curatorial:
Responsible for establishing and maintaining intellectual control of the genealogy and historical library collection.
Provides research support for the History Center curators in a variety of projects specific to History Center objectives.
Researches and provides scripted narrative with documentation for interpretive exhibits, presentations or video productions.
Authors narrative text for use in museum brochures, gallery guides, newsletters or other written materials.
Assists curators with exhibit research, installation and de-installation.
Assists curators with program implementation.
Community Relations and Professional Associations:
Active involvement in the Imperial Polk County Genealogical Society.
Attends meetings of the Polk County Library Cooperative and is responsible for activity coordination between the History Center and the Polk County Library Cooperative.
Provides monthly reports for the Polk County Historical Commission.
Develops professional network with administrators of other like institutions to obtain and exchange information and acquisitions.
KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS
Excellent project management skills.
Ability to successfully manage different projects at once. Demonstrated written and verbal communication skills. Excellent attention to detail.
Excellent organizational skills.
Knowledge of museum and library environment.
Demonstrated ability to work independently and as a team player. Sensitivity to the needs of persons with disabilities.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and to work well with others in a team situation.
Ability to move heavy objects safely and able to work from a ladder.
Ability to interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals.
Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
Ability to speak effectively before groups, visitors or employees of organizations. Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions and decimals.
Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.
Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram format.
Ability to proficiently use a personal computer and software applications specific to the position:
word documents, spreadsheets, database applications, graphic design.
Ability to deal with visitors graciously, cordially and professionally.
Ability and willingness to work some early mornings, evenings and weekend days. Ability to maintain appropriate interpersonal relationships with employees, peers, and visitors.
Obtain or maintain an account with a financial institution for direct deposit of paychecks.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Master’s degree in public history, museum studies or related research area from an accredited college or university.
Two years’ experience in historical and genealogical research methodology. Must be able to utilize all features afforded by word processing and other required software and personal computers utilized by the assigned work unit, including WordPerfect Office and/or Microsoft Office programs.
Must possess a valid driver’s license and be able to secure a valid Florida driver’s license at the time of employment, proof of vehicle insurance and access to a vehicle during work hours.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SPECIAL PREFERENCE
Will have or will attain within three years of hire certification as a genealogical researcher from an accredited source or have a master’s degree or higher in the area of historical research.
Proficiency with computer and software applications, including Microsoft Office: Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint.
Proficiency with PastPerfect, museum software.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENT
This position may be required to report for work when a declaration of emergency has been declared in Polk County.
Go to: https://www.polk-county.net/equity-and-human-resources/career-recruitment and follow instructions.
