Historians conduct research using primary and secondary sources to produce reports and inventories on specific sites, structures, or technical processes. A degree in architectural history, history of technology, American civilization, or a related field is required; graduate work or equivalent experience is highly recommended.

The application process is a two-part procedure.

1. Applicants must submit the following items directly to the Heritage Documentation Programs Office. Questions concerning the submission of these items should be directed to the HDP Summer Program Administrator at 202-354-2135.

   • Letter of Recommendation from a faculty member or recent employer.
     The letter must be a hard copy; digital letters will not be accepted.

   • Work Sample

   Historians must submit a paper, not to exceed 40 pages, demonstrating primary research and a command of secondary sources, in architectural history, landscape history, history of technology, industrial archeology, or an aspect of the built environment. Do not send electronic files. Applicant must be sole author.

   The Letter of Recommendation and the Work Sample should be mailed (or sent by delivery service) to the following address. The Work Sample must be postmarked by the application deadline.

   Judy Davis
   Summer Program Administrator
   Heritage Documentation Programs
   National Park Service
   1201 Eye Street NW, 7th floor
   Washington DC 20005
   

2. Applicants must submit the following items directly to the National Park Service Personnel Office. Instructions for submitting these items can be found in the OPM job announcement.

   • Resume
   • College Transcript
   • Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSA's)

View OPM job announcement for Historian (GS-0170-09/11)