Current Positions

Job Title: Oral History Program Manager (Part to Full-Time Employee)

Location: Hybrid (Remote and occasional on-site work within Washington State as required)

Hours: Part to Full-Time, 20 – 40 hours per week depending on scope and working style

Organization: Washington State Jewish Historical Society

Salary Range: $35-$45/hour depending on experience

Start Date: As soon as possible

 

Job Summary:

The Washington State Jewish Historical Society (WSJHS) is seeking a passionate and detail-oriented Oral Historian and Management Professional to join our team on a part-time basis as a Contractor or an Employee (flexible on this piece). The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the remodel of the WSJHS oral history program, including creation of process flow, streamlining the systems for efficiency, development of community outreach and communications. The role will also include collecting, recording, and preserving oral histories from the Jewish community in Washington State. This role requires excellent interviewing skills, a deep understanding of oral history methodologies, strategic integration with the Society’s mission and goals, and the ability to handle sensitive information with care and confidentiality.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead and coordinate oral history initiatives for the expansion of the oral history program.

Work with staff and contractors on development of the newly streamlined program which includes but is not limited to outreach in the community, collaboration with other community partners and process documentation.

Oversee the digitization and preservation of oral history materials.

Conduct in-depth interviews with individuals to collect oral histories from the Jewish community in Washington State – both virtually and in person.

Develop interview guides and research relevant background information to ensure comprehensive and respectful interviews.

Transcribe, edit, and catalog interview recordings and transcripts accurately.

Maintain detailed records of interviews, consent forms, and related documentation.

Collaborate with WSJHS project teams to ensure oral histories are integrated into larger research and preservation projects.

Ensure ethical standards and best practices in oral history are upheld.

Manage and organize audio and video recordings using appropriate software and archiving systems.

Train and supervise volunteers and other contractors or staff in oral history methodology and ensuring a robust program to be the key part of the Society’s work.

Oversee the creation and implementation of the newly updated WSJHS website to support the new oral history program with the vision of ensuring maximum public participation.

Assist in developing public programs, exhibits, or publications based on oral history collections.

Develop budgets and work to support grant writing for oral history initiatives with the state and other funders.

Administer the full program as the Manager and make recommendations on the future success and funding for sustainability of the program.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in History, Anthropology, Sociology, Jewish Studies, or a related field.

Proven experience in conducting oral history interviews and using oral history methodologies.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build rapport with interviewees from diverse backgrounds.

Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

Proficiency in audio and video recording equipment and software.

Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.

Experience with transcription and archiving software is preferred but can provide training.

Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.

Willingness to travel within Washington State as needed for interviews.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit the following:

A resume detailing relevant experience.

A cover letter explaining their interest in the position and their approach to oral history.

Examples of previous oral history work (if available).

Contact information for three professional references.

Compensation:

This is a part-time (to full-time) employee/contractor position with a competitive hourly rate, commensurate with experience. Travel expenses for interviews will be reimbursed as per WSJHS policy.

Benefits:

Pro-rated paid time off and sick leave, Flexible working hours, opportunity to work with a passionate and dedicated team to preserve the history of Jewish WA. 

 

Deadline for Applications:

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

For any inquiries regarding this position, please contact Executive Director, Lisa Kranseler at lisak@wsjhs.org. Please send 2-3 references along with a cover letter and resume.

The Washington State Jewish Historical Society (WSJHS) is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. All employment decisions are made based on qualifications, merit, and business need.

 

Flexible working hours.

Opportunity to work with a passionate team dedicated to preserving the history of the Jewish community in Washington State.

Deadline for Applications:

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

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