RESOURCE INTERPRETIVE SPECIALIST 2, HISTORIC

Code: 54405D State Competitive Range: P22 (FY 2027) Work week NE: FLSA coveredOvertime table (4A:3, Appx. A)

Salary: $69,668.2 - $101,950.9/year FY 2027 schedule (last updated 2026-07-27)

Official job specification

The text below is the official specification published by the New Jersey Civil Service Commission. The plain-language summary and analysis above are derived from it by NJ Civil Service Navigator. Source: the official specification page at NJ CSC.

Definition

Under the limited supervision of a Resource Interpretive Specialist 4, or other supervisory official in the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), performs the more complex work involved in the development and implementation of historical resource-themed educational and interpretive programs; coordinates research, publishing, and publicizing information related to historical resource interpretation and scheduled events; monitors the use and stewardship of a historical facility and related resources; conducts advanced research, interprets data, and presents findings on topics related to New Jersey's historical background; does other related duties as required.

Examples of work

Develops and implements audience-specific interpretive and educational programs, events, exhibits, and digital media posts to raise public awareness and appreciation of the site's historical resources and to highlight their significance. Develops and conducts lectures, classes, and interpretive programs as part of an interpretive or educational program for groups of various ages and interest levels at a historical resource facility. Interprets and explains the cultural and historical significance of the site and its resources. May assist in training staff and volunteers in historical resource interpretation, maintenance, daily procedures, and the functions of the historic site and its resources. Collaborates with field educators and other subject matter experts to develop proposed content for interpretive or educational programs and prepares pre- and post-visit materials. Conducts research using both primary and secondary sources and interprets the findings. Incorporates key elements into the design, development, and implementation of special projects for historical resource events, programs, and exhibits. Researches primary and secondary sources related to the subject matter at a historic site. Plans and presents at public events and programs related to historical resources. Develops media content and illustrative publications, including printed materials and digital media posts featuring artwork and informational graphics that promote facility events and programs. Recommends and implements creative strategies for developing various types of program reading materials, such as books, pamphlets, publications, and brochures. Reviews and edits these publications for both content and style. Coordinates and develops museum displays and exhibits. Maintains the associated publications by ordering and distributing relevant brochures and publications. Researches and compiles information on historical resource topics, sharing insights to raise awareness, educate the public, and inform visitors, enhancing visitor experience by providing details about the facility's recreational activities. Other responsibilities may include developing and implementing visitor and public educational programs. Gathers information about the vendor bidding process for brochures and supplies related to historical resource programs. Creates and updates program publications, including site guides, booklets, and brochures that detail the site's historical resources and additional information about state facilities. Implements broad editorial policies for content creation and publications, ensuring that deadlines are met while maintaining high standards of quality and accuracy. Implements and maintains a system for referencing the procedures and graphic design elements used in developing historical resource content for program materials and supplies as part of a public information initiative. Establishes and maintains essential records and files. Prepares reports containing findings, conclusions, and recommendations. May assist in planning and developing daily, weekly, and monthly work programs for employees and volunteers. Organizes conferences, seminars, and workshops by providing background and written information to participants and other interested parties as needed. Provides technical assistance to visitors and other interested parties in response to routine or basic inquiries. Stays informed about new developments in museum techniques and technologies to improve the preservation and management of the museum and artifacts. Performs or oversees routine care and maintenance of the displays and supplies at a historical resource facility. Communicates with the academic community and partner organizations regarding historic educational programs and initiatives. Maintains a collection of artifacts at a historic house museum or village. Responsibilities may include cleaning, cataloging, and basic preservation of historical objects using modern museum curation techniques and methods. May also be responsible for curatorial care and general museum upkeep. Ensures proper conditions of the museum's storage areas for artifacts and collections by monitoring them and the exhibits for potential environmental problems or other issues. Collaborates with higher-level staff in implementing the Statewide Interpretive Plan at a historical resource facility by developing and delivering site-specific interpretive program initiatives. Additional duties may include evaluating existing programs using the criteria established in the State Plan. May assist in training staff and volunteers in historic site interpretation, museum maintenance, daily program procedures, and the operating functions of a historical resource facility. Monitors the use of a historical resource facility by inspecting the site for deficiencies, such as overuse or damage, and notifying the appropriate authorities to ensure preservation. Coordinates distinct historical resource interpretive programs and events in collaboration with appropriate staff. These activities may include supporting the continuous implementation of teacher training programs. Identifies, locates, and procures historical objects, artifacts, and materials for use in both newly created or updated curated collections and exhibits for the facility's interpretive programs. Develops site-specific interpretive and exhibit plans to enhance public engagement, education, and visitor experience. May provide guidance and assistance to lower-level specialists and others involved in the work of the unit. May be required to research grant opportunities and assist in managing the awarded funds. Identifies, develops, maintains, and provides information about interpretive facilities in both newly acquired and existing areas. Investigates complaints concerning alleged violations of the rules and regulations governing historical resource facilities. Will be required to learn how to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units.

Education

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in history, American History, art history, architectural history, American Studies, American Literature, anthropology, archaeology, museum studies, or a closely related historical or museum studies field; or a bachelor's degree in education, or English that includes or is supplemented by eighteen (18) credits in any combination of the previously listed areas.

Experience

Two (2) years of experience in any of the following areas: researching and preparing historical resource information; managing historical resources; interpreting historical resources; implementing historical resource programs, planning, preparing, and caring for museum exhibits, artistic or historical artifacts, or museum curation.

License

Appointees will be required to possess a driver's license valid in New Jersey only if the operation of a vehicle, rather than employee mobility, is necessary to perform the essential duties of the position.

Knowledge, skills and abilities

Knowledge of research methods and techniques. Knowledge of the methods used to write and edit text and content for articles on program events and featured exhibits in various formats, including publications, brochures, websites, digital, print, or social media layouts. Knowledge of basic historical resource management principles and practices. Knowledge of the methods used to prepare museum exhibits and displays. Knowledge of the methods used to handle and protect museum objects. Ability to recommend creative concepts for displays, articles, and features on historical resource topics for program events and publications, including print or digital media posts, especially on social media. Ability to research, compile, and analyze information. Ability to prepare, review, and edit various types of written material. Ability to prepare technical and other informative reports containing findings, conclusions, and recommendations. Ability to draft correspondence. Ability to read, analyze, interpret, and apply policies, procedures, and basic rules and regulations in a state facility. Ability to develop and conduct guided tours that highlight key points of interest in historic resource areas, while interpreting their significance. Ability to establish and maintain essential records and files. Ability to prepare, select, and arrange suitable photographic and illustrative content for articles on historical resource topics. Ability to provide guidance and assistance to lower-level specialists or others involved in the work of the unit. Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with staff, program volunteers, and other state, federal, and non-profit community partners. Ability to plan state historical resource events. Ability to evaluate interpretive and educational programs, assess their effectiveness, and implement improvements as needed. Ability to assist with overseeing volunteer activities. Ability to communicate effectively with audiences of diverse ages and backgrounds. Ability to identify and report hazardous and detrimental conditions, such as damage or misuse, to the appropriate authority, and to assist in conducting basic preventative maintenance of a historical site and its resources. Ability to maintain historic sites and museums, ensuring they remain authentic, clean, safe, and visually appealing. Ability to investigate complaints regarding alleged violations of the rules and regulations governing a historical resource facility. Ability to catalog museum objects using current museum methods and practices. Ability to learn how to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units. Ability to read, write, speak, understand, and communicate in English sufficiently to perform the duties of this position. American Sign Language or Braille may also be considered as acceptable forms of communication. Persons with mental or physical disabilities are eligible if they can perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. If the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible.

Note

The examples of work for this title are for illustrative purposes only. A particular position using this title may not perform all duties listed in this job specification. Conversely, all duties performed on the job may not be listed. A master's degree in history, art history, American History, American Literature, architectural history, American Studies, anthropology, archaeology, museum studies, or a closely related historical or museum studies field; or with a master's degree in education, or English that includes or is supplemented by nine (9) credits in any combination of the previously listed areas, may be substituted for one (1) year of experience. Appointees may be required to obtain a bond from an appropriate agency that manages artifacts and/or collections.