Senior Historian - National Park Administrative History Project

Job Description

We are seeking a Senior Historian to lead the development of the first-ever Administrative History for a U.S. National Park approaching its 50th anniversary. This comprehensive research and writing effort will combine archival analysis, oral histories, and GIS-supported data to document the park’s origin, evolution, and key management decisions from its founding to the present. The final product will serve as a critical resource for park leadership, staff, and future planning efforts.

The ideal candidate will bring extensive experience conducting complex federal history projects, particularly in partnership with agencies like the National Park Service, Department of the Interior, or other cultural and environmental agencies. You’ll collaborate with a junior researcher who will support fieldwork and source collection.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and oversee the full development of the park’s administrative history, from initial research design to final deliverables
• Conduct and supervise oral history interviews, including developing a strategy for interviewee selection, creating interview protocols, recording interviews, and reviewing transcriptions for accuracy
• Lead in-depth archival research using materials from NARA, park archives, federal agency collections, tribal records, and regional repositories
• Coordinate GIS data collection in collaboration with park staff to enhance spatial storytelling and illustrate historical land management patterns
• Synthesize research findings into a structured administrative history that includes both chronological narratives and topical chapters focused on key management themes
• Ensure integration of diverse historical sources—including interviews, primary documents, maps, and datasets—into a clear, comprehensive narrative
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including long-time staff, retirees, tribal partners, local communities, and affiliated researchers
• Provide oversight and guidance to a junior researcher responsible for logistical support, transcription coordination, and background research
• Lead the internal review process of draft materials, coordinating feedback from the park and the NPS regional historian
• Finalize and submit the administrative history and all associated documentation, including interview transcripts, metadata, and research notes, in accordance with NPS formatting and records transfer requirements
  
  

Required Qualifications

• Experience conducting historical research, preferably in public history, federal agency documentation, or National Park Service projects
• Demonstrated experience writing Administrative Histories, Special Resource Studies, or similar federal reports
• Expertise in oral history, including interview planning, recording, and transcription best practices
• Strong background in archival research (NARA, Library of Congress, DOI records, park archives, tribal libraries, etc.)
• Excellent written communication and narrative historical writing skills
• Ability to synthesize technical, cultural, and policy content into accessible, engaging history
• Knowledge of federal cultural resources management, DOI policies, and park operations
• Familiarity with GIS data usage in historical research (hands-on GIS experience not required)
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience working on NPS projects or federal cultural resource documentation
• Understanding of wilderness designation, co-stewardship, and tribal consultation history
• Experience managing or mentoring junior staff
• Master's or Ph.D. in History, Public History, Anthropology, Historic Preservation, or a related field
  
  

Benefits

At Metrics LLC, we offer a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, paid time off, and paid holidays. We also provide a 401(k) retirement plan with matching contributions.

If you are a highly motivated individual with a desire to make a measurable impact, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume and cover letter for consideration.

Company Description

Providing quality government consulting in today's resource constrained environment, Metrics LLC balances proven best practices with innovative approaches. Our result: Highly effective outcomes and highly competitive solutions. For more information, go to https://www.metrics-llc.com/home.html

Providing quality government consulting in today's resource constrained environment, Metrics LLC balances proven best practices with innovative approaches. Our result: Highly effective outcomes and highly competitive solutions. For more information, go to https://www.metrics-llc.com/home.html