The Adams Papers editorial project at the Massachusetts Historical Society in Boston seeks a full-time assistant editor to begin work in fall 2021. Since its establishment in 1954, the Adams Papers has published 55 volumes of the diaries, letters, and other writings of the Adams family of Massachusetts; currently, we publish two letterpress series (Adams Family Correspondence and the Papers of John Adams) and two digital editions (Adams Papers Digital Edition and John Quincy Adams Digital Diary). Work on the Adams Papers provides a unique opportunity to explore the history of the early American republic through the multigenerational lens of one family.

About the Position

The assistant editor’s primary responsibility is to contribute editorial and production support to the Adams Family Correspondence (AFC). The series is currently focused on the social and political history of the early nineteenth century. Duties include the selection and preparation of documents for publication, proofreading of manuscript transcriptions, research and annotation of historical documents and illustrations, along with indexing and book production tasks. The assistant editor also contributes to the production of other Adams Papers publications as needed. Ideal qualifications for the position include a graduate degree in history or a closely related field, demonstrable knowledge of the early federal period, and some documentary editing experience. Applicants must be committed to learning and implementing Adams Papers styles and practices to create a final product that meets the high standards set by the project. The work requires extreme attention to detail and a desire to collaborate with coworkers on planning and problem solving.

What We’re Looking For

• MA (required) or PhD (preferred) in history or related field
• Demonstrated knowledge of the history of the early American republic
• Experience in documentary editing and working with archival materials
• Effective communication through research, diverse writing formats, and public engagement
• Editorial experience, including copyediting skills, a familiarity with style guides (Chicago preferred), and a strong grasp of rules of grammar and usage
• Ability to work independently and on small teams
• Meticulous eye for detail and commitment to accuracy
• Ability to multitask and effectively manage time and communicate with colleagues
• Familiarity with HTML or other mark-up language a plus

Job applicants invited for an interview may be asked to take a transcription test.

In-person work at the MHS is preferred, but remote or hybrid options may be considered. Position to start fall 2021; salary range, $55,000–$63,000 plus competitive benefits.

To apply, please email a cover letter and a résumé of no more than 2 pages to ap_job@masshist.org. Address materials to Dr. Sara Martin, Editor in Chief, The Adams Papers, Massachusetts Historical Society. Review of applications will begin immediately.

The Massachusetts Historical Society is an equal opportunity employer.

We aim to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens we serve. Candidates of all backgrounds are welcomed and encouraged to apply. We are committed to creating a work place free from harassment and discrimination on the basis of race, color, ancestry, religious creed, gender identity and expression, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, genetic information, disability, military or veteran status, or any other category protected by law (also known as membership in a “protected class”).