Embark on a Historical Journey: Become a Historian at Sitka National Historical Park
Are you a history enthusiast with a passion for public service? The National Park Service (NPS) is currently offering an exciting opportunity for a Historian to join the team at Sitka National Historical Park in Alaska. This temporary role is perfect for professionals who want to apply their research skills in a meaningful, field-based environment, surrounded by the remnants of Russian colonial history and the vibrant traditions of the Tlingit people.
Job Responsibilities
As a Historian, your work will be diverse and highly impactful. You will not be confined to an office; you will bridge the gap between academic research and public engagement.
- Research: Conduct independent studies and literature reviews to expand the park's historical record.
- Fieldwork: Assist in archaeological studies, geological mapping, and cultural site investigations.
- Education: Deliver historical content to visitors and engage in educational outreach.
- Reporting: Draft complex reports and manage cultural resource conditions.
Requirements
This position requires candidates to possess a specific blend of expertise and local knowledge. You must demonstrate that you have lived or worked within the designated areas near Sitka to ensure you understand the unique environmental and historical context of the region.
Comparison Table: Eligibility Factors
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Age Requirement | Must be at least 18 years old |
| Location Knowledge | Must demonstrate ties to Baranof/Admiralty/Chichagof Islands |
| Licensing | Must possess a valid driver's license |
Salary Overview
The salary for this position is competitive, ranging from $57,055 to $74,173 per year, depending on qualifications and agency needs.
Benefits
- Work in an area with no state income tax.
- Uniform allowance provided.
- Potential for government-provided housing.
- Opportunity to contribute to significant cultural preservation projects.
Application Tips
To be successful, ensure your resume is concise—exactly two pages or fewer—and clearly reflects your experience with the specific resources of Sitka. Always check your USAJobs dashboard for status updates rather than calling the office directly.
This role offers more than just a job; it is a chance to live and work in one of the most culturally and naturally rich locations in the United States. Apply today to contribute your expertise to the legacy of Sitka National Historical Park.
Why This Historian (Temporary) Job Matters
Bring history to life in the heart of the Alaskan wilderness at the iconic Sitka National Historical Park.
Historian (Temporary) Job Overview
The National Park Service is seeking a dedicated Historian to join our team in Sitka, Alaska. This temporary position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the preservation of cultural and natural resources where Russian colonial history meets the vibrant heritage of the Kiks.ádi Tlingit. As a key member of the interpretation and cultural resources team, you will conduct independent research, engage with visitors, and manage complex historical projects in one of the most stunning locations in the Pacific Northwest.
Requirements for Historian (Temporary)
- Must be a U.S. citizen or national.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Must possess a valid state driver's license.
- Must successfully pass a background investigation and E-Verify check.
- Must reside in or near the designated area of consideration (Baranof Island, Admiralty Island, Chichagof Island, or the City and Borough of Juneau).
- Must demonstrate special knowledge or expertise regarding the park's natural/cultural resources.
- Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must be registered for Selective Service.
Preferred Qualifications for Historian (Temporary)
- Proven ability to conduct independent historical research using diverse media such as maps, oral histories, and photographs.
- Demonstrated skill in communicating historical findings to diverse public audiences.
- Experience in archaeological field studies or cultural resource reporting.
- Familiarity with local conditions and resources pertinent to Sitka National Historical Park.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Uniform allowance provided
- ✓Potential for government housing
- ✓Access to a range of federal benefits for eligible appointees
- ✓Work in an area with no state income tax
- ✓Professional development through fieldwork and site studies
💡 How to Apply Historian (Temporary) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Historian (Temporary) Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement on the USAJobs portal.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two single-sided pages.
- Complete the required online questionnaires and assessments.
- Gather and attach all necessary supporting documentation, including veterans' preference documents if applicable.
- Submit your complete application package via the USAStaffing portal before the closing date.
- Monitor your USAJobs account for status updates.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically highlights your expertise in the park's local cultural or natural resources.
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages or less to avoid automatic disqualification.
- Use month-year format for all work experience to ensure accurate tenure tracking.
- Remove any personal photographs from your documentation.
- Check your USAJobs profile frequently to ensure all contact information is current.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute education for the required expertise?
No. This position requires specific knowledge or expertise concerning the natural and cultural resources of the park, which cannot be substituted with academic degrees alone.
Is housing available for this position?
Government housing may be available, but relocation expenses are the responsibility of the selectee.
What is the area of consideration?
Candidates must have experience living or working in or near Sitka, including Baranof Island, Admiralty Island, Chichagof Island, or the City and Borough of Juneau.
How long is the appointment?
This is a temporary appointment expected to last one year, with the possibility of extension up to two years.
Can I apply via mail?
Yes, but applications must be postmarked by the closing date and received within seven days.
Job from National Park Service
The National Park Service is dedicated to preserving the natural and cultural values of America's most treasured sites. At Sitka National Historical Park, our mission is to interpret the history of the 1804 battle between Russian traders and the Indigenous Kiks.ádi Tlingit. From our iconic totem poles to the restored Russian Bishop's House, your work will directly impact how current and future generations understand this pivotal history.