Online Genealogist

Description

Online Genealogist (Remote) – $82,160/year

Discover the Past, Empower the Future

Do you have a passion for uncovering family roots and analyzing historical records? As an Online Genealogist, you'll turn curiosity into clarity for clients seeking to understand their lineage. This exciting virtual opportunity allows you to immerse yourself in ancestral research, build intricate family trees, and bring historical connections to life—all while earning a competitive annual salary of $82,160. If you have a meticulous eye, a love for history, and a drive to connect people to their heritage, this role is tailor-made for you. You'll work in a collaborative yet independent virtual environment, engaging with global clients who rely on your expertise to help them reconnect with their ancestry. Your daily tasks will be meaningful, your projects intellectually stimulating, and your contribution profoundly rewarding.

What You’ll Do

Core Responsibilities

Research & Analysis

  • 🗂️ Search and interpret historical documents, census records, immigration logs, land deeds, wills, and marriage certificates
  • 🗂️ Analyze extensive family data and infer relationships, missing links, and migration patterns
  • 🗂️ Explore international archives, online databases, and government registries to gather and cross-reference records

Family Tree Construction

  • 🧱 Build detailed family trees across multiple generations using genealogical software
  • 🧱 Utilize multiple data points to verify lineage accuracy and eliminate inconsistencies
  • 🧱 Incorporate historical and cultural context into visual representations of family heritage

Client Communication

  • 🗨️ Conduct discovery sessions to understand client objectives and familial background
  • 🗨️ Present findings in a thoughtful, narrative-driven manner
  • 🗨️ Offer consultation on how to preserve family records and legacy documents

Digital Archiving

  • 🌐 Digitize paper records, photos, and artifacts using professional archiving tools
  • 🌐 Label and categorize client files for easy retrieval and ongoing access
  • 🌐 Maintain organized databases and secure storage of sensitive genealogical information

Report Writing

  • ✍️ Compose detailed, client-friendly reports outlining lineage findings and historical insights
  • ✍️ Translate complex historical data into engaging, readable family histories
  • ✍️ Document sources and research methodology clearly for transparency

Verification & Accuracy

  • 🔎 Rigorously cross-check all records against official sources and secondary references
  • 🔎 Maintain high standards of factual accuracy, ethical sourcing, and data privacy
  • 🔎 Identify gaps in lineage and develop logical hypotheses supported by research

Skills That Set You Apart

Required Skills & Experience

  • 📜 Minimum 2 years of hands-on genealogical research experience
  • 🖥️ Proficiency in platforms like Ancestry.com, MyHeritage, FamilySearch, and Findmypast
  • 🕵️ Strong critical thinking and deductive reasoning skills
  • 🧾 Familiarity with vital records, immigration archives, census data, military files, and international record systems
  • 💬 Excellent command of English with strong writing and editing skills
  • 🧠 Meticulous attention to detail and a passion for historical discovery
  • ⌚ Ability to manage multiple client projects and meet tight deadlines in a self-driven environment
  • 📚 Bachelor's degree in History, Anthropology, Library Science, or related field (preferred)

What You’ll Bring to the Table

Personal Attributes

  • 🤔 Natural curiosity and an investigative mindset
  • ❤️ Deep respect for diverse cultural and family traditions
  • 🔄 Ability to adapt findings to suit various family structures and generational nuances
  • 🧩 Capacity to synthesize incomplete data into cohesive stories
  • 💼 Strong sense of confidentiality and emotional intelligence in handling sensitive personal histories

Benefits That Matter

Perks of the Role

  • 💻 100% Remote Work Setup — work from anywhere with Wi-Fi
  • ⏱️ Flexible Scheduling — manage your time based on project needs
  • 🌱 Monthly Learning Budget for certifications or online training
  • 🧘‍♀️ Mental Health & Wellness Support
  • 🎓 Access to exclusive genealogical research tools and subscriptions
  • 📅 Generous Paid Time Off & National Holidays
  • 🛡️ Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Plans
  • 💬 Dynamic, Inclusive Virtual Work Culture

Tools & Platforms You’ll Use

Technology Stack

  • 🧩 Genealogy databases: Ancestry.com, MyHeritage, FamilySearch
  • 📁 Productivity tools: Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Drive)
  • 📋 Project management: Trello, Notion, or Asana
  • 📇 CRM systems for tracking client research and updates
  • 💬 Communication tools: Zoom, Slack, and Loom for collaboration

Why This Role Matters

The Impact of Your Work

Each case you take on has real human value. You’re not just collecting names and dates—you’re helping people rediscover their roots, understand generational patterns, and revive family legacies. Your research can unite long-lost relatives, bring closure to unanswered questions, and turn static history into vivid storytelling. This role combines meticulous academic work with real-world emotional resonance, making every project intellectually enriching and personally impactful.

A Typical Day

What Your Day Might Look Like

  • 🔎 Begin with a morning review of your active research cases and task planning
  • 💬 Meet virtually with clients to discuss research findings or gather further details
  • 📂 Access genealogical databases and digitized archives for documentation retrieval
  • ✍️ Draft client reports and organize verified records for a visual family tree presentation
  • 💡 Participate in knowledge-sharing sessions or community webinars to sharpen your skills

You’re a Great Fit If You:

Candidate Profile

  • Are energized by deep-diving into historical records and databases
  • Can work independently without needing constant supervision
  • Have empathy and sensitivity when discussing family matters with clients
  • They are driven by the desire to give people a fuller understanding of their identity
  • Thrive in remote, structured, and purpose-driven work environments

Career Growth Opportunities

Future Pathways

  • 📚 Attain Genealogical Certifications (e.g., ICAPGen, BCG)
  • 📢 Present research findings at genealogy summits and conferences
  • 🧠 Transition into DNA-based or forensic genealogy fields
  • 📘 Author or contribute to books on genealogical techniques or family stories
  • 💼 Advance to senior researcher or genealogical program director roles

Ready to Make a Difference?

Bring people closer to their origins, one record at a time.

Take the first step toward an inspiring career as a Remote Online Genealogist. Published on: Apr 17, 2025