Postdoctoral in Digital Storytelling

Postdoctoral Position in Digital Storytelling

Full-Time, Temporary 1 Year

Position overview:

The Center for Digital History at the George Washington Presidential Library at Mount Vernon invites applications for a one-year position in Digital Storytelling, with a desired start date of September 2026.

The recipient will act as a full team member at the Center for Digital History and will be responsible for managing, planning, and executing our podcasting initiatives for 2027. Foremost among these is a narrative podcast about the international dimensions of the American Revolution, in particular the contributions of the French, Spanish, and other European nations to the American cause, as well as an additional project on women's history. Technical expertise in audio recording and editing is not required.

We especially encourage applications from early-career scholars with a background in digital humanities interested in exploring careers in public history and cultural heritage institutions. Scholars with expertise in early American and/or Atlantic World history, and the American Revolution are particularly welcome.

This position is an in-person, full-time role located at Mount Vernon, Virginia. The recipient will have full access to the collections and other resources of the Washington Library and some professional development funds.

To apply, please submit a cover letter, CV, and a short (no more than five-page) writing sample, along with the names and contact information for three references.

Compensation:

The position has the possibility of renewal for a second year and includes an annual salary of $60,000 plus benefits.

Position-Specific Responsibilities:

• Perform historical research related to episode topics and ensure historical accuracy throughout
• Assist in identifying appropriate subject matter experts and conduct interviews
• In collaboration with other Center for Digital History staff, write scripts combining historical research and excerpts from expert interviews
• Coordinate with outside contractors to facilitate editing and final production of episodes
• Assist with other Center for Digital History projects as needed and appropriate

Qualifications:

• PhD in History or a related field preferred; MA possible
• Demonstrated writing and editing abilities, preferably for a public audience
• Demonstrated understanding of historical research methods
• Strong interest in the practice of historical storytelling for the general public
• Ability to work in a collaborative environment
• Strong organizational and logistical abilities
• Expertise in some aspect of eighteenth- or early nineteenth-century North American history strongly preferred.
• Experience or background in podcasting or other digital history methods is welcome

Work Environment:

This position operates in a professional office environment and may include a combination of private offices, open workspace settings, and virtual or hybrid arrangements. The role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, telephones, printers, and video conferencing tools. The environment is typically climate-controlled with moderate noise levels. Work requires sustained concentration, attention to detail, and frequent communication with colleagues, stakeholders, and external partners. Occasional schedule flexibility may be required to meet deadlines or support organizational needs.

Physical Requirements (Essential Functions):

• Ability to remain in a stationary position for extended periods while working at a computer.
• Ability to operate a computer and other standard office equipment.
• Ability to communicate effectively and exchange accurate information.
• Ability to travel throughout the estate as needed.
• Ability to occasionally move materials weighing up to 15 pounds

Benefits:

• 403(b) Retirement plan with employer matching
• Employee recognition at 5 years of service
• Employee referral program
• On-site Library
• Employee Discounts
• Free Parking
• Health, Vision, and Dental insurance
• Short Term Disability, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance
• Paid leave for sick time, vacation, and Holidays
• Flexible spending account for medical care

The Mount Vernon Ladies'' Association is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we are committed to building and retaining a team that represents a variety of skills, experiences, and perspectives. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, performance, and qualifications without regard to race, religion or belief, national or ethnic origin, gender/sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital or domestic partnership status, veteran and military status, family or parental status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law. The Mount Vernon Ladies'' Association will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.