Careers at American Ancestors

Who We Are:  

American Ancestors is a national center for family history, heritage & culture based on Newbury Street in Boston and one of the world’s top destinations for family history research, according to USA Today. It is the global brand of New England Historic Genealogical Society, America’s oldest and largest genealogical society, founded in 1845. American Ancestors serves more than 500,000 members and subscribers and millions of online users engaged in family history nationally and around the world through its website AmericanAncestors.org with more than ten billion names in its databases.

With spaces and resources dedicated to advancing family history, including the Brim-DeForest Library, the Family Heritage Experience, the R. Stanton Avery Special Collections, the Brue Family Learning Center, the 10 Million Names Project, and the Wyner Family Jewish Heritage Center, we also maintain a publishing division that produces original genealogical research, scholarship, and educational materials. We strive to connect with our members and the public in meaningful ways, serving as respected expert genealogists and historians who care deeply about helping people.

The Role:  

Under the direction of the Chief Advancement Officer, the Major Gifts Officer will manage a portfolio of major gift prospects to support the vital work of American Ancestors. Using moves management and prospect tracking strategies, the Major Gifts Officer is responsible for the identification, qualification, cultivation, solicitation, recognition, and stewardship of assigned donors. 

Primary Responsibilities Include:

• Manage a portfolio of 120+ active and discovery prospects and execute cultivation, solicitation and stewardship strategies for each.
• Responsible for the meaningful cultivation and solicitation of capital campaign and annual giving donors, including face-to-face visits, as well as email, telephone, and mail communications. Goal of 10 face-to-face donor visits per month, with an emphasis on cultivating new support.
• Participate in events, programs and activities for donor outreach, cultivation and stewardship
• Manage a “moves management” program in your portfolio with a focus on cultivating, rating, soliciting, and stewarding gifts.
• Document all cultivation and solicitation activities with prospects/donors and employ prospect clearance policies. Maintain accurate and timely records of all activities in donor database.
• Work with the CAO to identify and strategize giving options and to structure gifts that accommodate donor interests and meet institutional needs/opportunities.
• Ensure that gifts are recorded, acknowledged, and recognized in a timely and appropriate manner.
• Collaboration with the team and across other departments will be important to create a strong and continuous portfolio.
• Provide additional assistance to Executive Leadership Team members and members of the Advancement team as requested.

Skills & Qualifications:  

• Minimum of 7+ years of progressively responsible experience in fundraising, with a proven track record of securing individual major gifts at the $100,000 level and higher.
• Experience using a donor database, prospect research and other wealth screening tools to support moves management process.
• Develop compelling proposals and gift strategies, including understanding various giving vehicles and planned giving options.
• Exemplary oral and written communications skills are necessary
• Ability to manage several development activities and strategies simultaneously while maintaining timeframes.
• Must have strong organizational and project management skills, as well as the ability to establish priorities and apply available information and resources to complete assignments on a timely basis.
• Excellent social skills and ability to relate to persons from many different backgrounds.
• Significant administrative work, including travel planning, itinerary building, correspondence, and accurate and timely documentation of all work.
• Experience with using Tessitura highly desirable
• Experience with using Microsoft’s Office 365 suite required
• Interest in genealogy, history or related subject matter is a plus.

Education Level:  

• Bachelor’s degree.   

This exciting opportunity is a full time; exempt position located at our headquarters on Newbury Street in Boston. Some of the outstanding benefits include medical, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, generous paid time off, paid holidays, Employee Assistance Program, tuition reimbursement, FSA, 403(b) Retirement plan, and so much more!

Salary: $109,200

To Apply 

Please send resume and a compelling cover letter to, Michelle Major, Director of Human Resources michelle.major@americanancestors.org

Please include your last name and MGO in the subject line. 

No phone calls please.

Join the Team at American Ancestors

Are you passionate about uncovering family stories, solving historical mysteries, and helping people connect with their past? American Ancestors, one of the nation’s leading genealogical research organizations, is seeking a talented and enthusiastic Researcher to join our Research & Library Services team.

For more than 180 years, American Ancestors has been setting the gold standard for family history research. As a Researcher, you will work alongside a team of expert genealogists and historians, helping clients discover their family stories through thoughtful research, compelling writing, and exceptional service.

This is a full-time, non-exempt, hourly position based at our historic headquarters on beautiful Newbury Street in Boston. The schedule for this position is Tuesday through Saturday.

Why Join American Ancestors?

In addition to meaningful work that helps individuals preserve and understand their heritage, we offer an outstanding benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• AFLAC and life insurance
• Generous paid time off and paid holidays
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Tuition reimbursement
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• 403(b) retirement plan
• Professional development opportunities
• A collaborative and mission-driven workplace
• And much more!

Responsibilities of the Researcher Position: 

As a member of our Research & Library Services team, you will:

• Conduct accurate and thorough genealogical and historical research using a wide variety of records, repositories, and methodologies.
• Analyze historical documents and evidence to solve complex family history questions.
• Produce detailed, well-written narrative research reports for clients.
• Manage research projects efficiently within established timeframes and budgets.
• Assist visitors and members in-person at our Brim-DeForest Library on the reference desk.
• Contribute articles, content, and research findings to American Ancestors publications, including American Ancestors magazine and Vita Brevis.
• Represent American Ancestors at virtual and in-person conferences, seminars, and educational events as needed.
• Collaborate with a team of dedicated professionals committed to advancing the study of family history.

Education Level for the Position: 

• Bachelor's degree in History, Genealogy, Anthropology, Library Science, or a related field.

Qualifications:

• 3–4 years of genealogical research experience preferred.
• Historical research experience.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to evaluate evidence and develop sound genealogical conclusions.
• Excellent writing and communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Adobe products.
• Outstanding customer service skills and a client-focused approach.
• Familiarity with American Ancestors collections and resources preferred.
• Passion for family history and a commitment to research excellence.

Compensation

• $22.50 per hour
• 35-hour work week

To Apply 

Please submit the following materials:

• Resume
• Cover Letter (tell us what excites you about genealogy and research)
• Writing Sample (required), preferred to be genealogical

Please send application materials to:
Michelle Major
Director of Human Resources
michelle.major@americanancestors.org

No phone calls please.

Basic Function of the Position: 

Working in a fast-paced and detail-oriented environment within the Research & Library Services department, the Finance Coordinator supports daily financial operations, including billing, payment processing, account reconciliation, and financial record maintenance. This position requires strong organizational skills, accuracy, and the ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining excellent communication with internal staff and clients.

Working closely with the Finance team, The Finance Coordinator will utilize financial and customer relationship management systems, including Tessitura and Sage Intacct, to process transactions, maintain records, and assist with reporting and financial administration. This position is on-site at our Boston location and not eligible for remote work. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Process invoices, billing requests, and payments in a timely and accurate manner. 
• Maintain financial records and documentation within Sage Intacct and Tessitura systems. 
• Assist with accounts payable and accounts receivable functions. 
• Coordinate payment processing, including credit card payments, checks, ACH transactions, and online payments. 
• Reconcile financial records, transactions, and account discrepancies. 
• Serve as a point of contact for billing inquiries and payment-related questions from staff and clients. 
• Generate financial reports, spreadsheets, and account summaries as requested. 
• Collaborate with internal departments to ensure accurate financial tracking and communication. 
• Assist with maintaining organized electronic and physical financial files and records. 
• Support month-end and year-end financial processes and audits. 
• Monitor and update financial tracking logs and databases. 
• Ensure confidentiality and security of financial and donor/customer information. 
• Assist with administrative and operational projects as assigned. 

Education/Experience Level for the Position:

• Bachelor’s degree is preferred in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or related field. 
• Minimum of 2–3 years of experience in finance, accounting support, billing, or administrative coordination. 
• Experience working with nonprofit organizations or membership-based organizations preferred. 

Skill Level for the Position:

• Strong computer and financial software skills required. 
• Experience with Tessitura and Sage Intacct preferred. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office Suite. 
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills. 
• Strong written and verbal communication skills. 
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a time-sensitive environment. 
• Customer service and professional communication experience required. 
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across departments. 

How to Apply: 

Please submit a cover letter and resume to Michelle Major, Director of Human Resources, michelle.major@americanancestors.org Please include your last name and Finance Coordinator in the subject line of your email.

No phone calls please.

Salary: $22.50 per hour 19 hours per week 

Wyner Family Jewish Heritage Center at American Ancestors

The Wyner Family Jewish Heritage Center (JHC) at American Ancestors seeks an experienced and strategic professional to serve as Executive Director. The JHC is a premier history center dedicated to preserving, illuminating, and sharing the history of Jewish families, institutions, and communities in New England while connecting that history to the broader American Jewish experience. Through its extensive archives, educational programs and resources, public events, and support of scholarship, the JHC engages historians, genealogists, students, and the general public in the study and understanding of Jewish history and heritage.

About the Role

Reporting to the CEO of American Ancestors, the Executive Director provides the strategic, operational, and public leadership for the Wyner Family Jewish Heritage Center. S/he/They serve as the JHC’s chief ambassador, fundraiser, and organizational leader, guiding its continued growth, visibility, and impact.

The Executive Director oversees all aspects of the Center's operations, including strategic planning, fundraising, financial management, public and educational programming, external partnerships, communications, and staff leadership. Working closely with an Advisory Board, staff, and colleagues across American Ancestors, the Executive Director builds meaningful relationships with donors, scholars, educators, community leaders, and partner organizations to advance the Center's mission and ensure its long-term sustainability.

This is an exciting opportunity for a leader who believes that history is a powerful tool for understanding—and that learning about Jewish community and family history enables people to discover their place within a larger American Jewish story, strengthening identity and community. The successful candidate will combine strategic thinking with hands-on leadership, cultivate philanthropy and partnerships, lead with warmth and conviction, and guide a respected institution through its next chapter of growth.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• In partnership with key internal and external stakeholders, develop and implement a compelling strategic vision for the Jewish Heritage Center that advances its mission, strengthens its long-term sustainability, and increases its visibility and impact.
• Identify opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and growth while ensuring the JHC remains responsive to the needs of the communities it serves.
• Establish priorities, measure outcomes, and lead organizational planning in partnership with American Ancestors leadership and the JHC Advisory Board.

Organizational Leadership and Operations

• Lead, mentor, and inspire a talented staff, fostering a collaborative, mission-driven culture grounded in excellence, dedication, and mutual respect.
• Oversee the Center's daily operations, ensuring effective management of personnel, budgets, projects, and organizational resources.
• Develop and manage the JHC’s annual operating budget.
• Ensure that programs, initiatives, and organizational practices reflect the highest standards of professionalism and quality.

Fundraising and External Relations

• Serve as the Center's chief representative and principal relationship builder with donors, foundations, partner organizations, and community stakeholders.
• Articulate a compelling case for investment in the JHC’s mission, and partner with American Ancestors development staff to cultivate, solicit, and steward philanthropic support from individuals and institutions.
• Represent the organization at fundraising and community events.
• Build and strengthen strategic partnerships that expand the JHC’s reach, enhance programming, and create new opportunities for collaboration.

Board and Institutional Collaboration

• Partner effectively with the Advisory Council, supporting its engagement in strategic planning, fundraising, and community advocacy.
• Collaborate closely with colleagues across American Ancestors to advance shared organizational goals and integrate the Center's work into broader institutional initiatives.
• Represent the Center with professionalism, diplomacy, and integrity, building consensus across diverse constituencies and perspectives.

Collections, Scholarship, and Mission

• Champion the preservation, accessibility, and responsible stewardship of the Center's archival collections.
• Support scholarship, historical research, and educational initiatives that illuminate the richness and diversity of Jewish life in New England and beyond.
• Foster meaningful connections between historical collections and contemporary audiences, so that the JHC’s work is both rigorous and broadly accessible.

Public Engagement and Communications

• Serve as the primary public spokesperson for the Jewish Heritage Center, communicating its mission and impact through public speaking, writing, programming, and community outreach.
• Guide the development of communications that inspire broad public engagement and demonstrate the relevance of Jewish history to contemporary audiences.
• Ensure the continued growth of educational initiatives, public programs, exhibitions, digital resources, and scholarly activities that advance the Center's mission and expand its reach.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree; graduate degree in related discipline.
• Experience in non­profit governance or operations or equivalent business experience; working knowledge of non-profit fiscal management; and experience working with a board or advisory council.
• Demonstrated success in working with other cultural-organization and Jewish-community leaders, performing outreach, and developing partnerships.
• Expertise in areas of Jewish cultural or local history.
• Experience or strong interest in Jewish genealogy.
• Knowledge of Jewish traditions, holidays, and observance; and a history of community involvement.
• Strong leadership skills.
• Demonstrated success in grant applications and fundraising.
• Demonstrated ability in public speaking.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills.

This exciting opportunity is a full time; exempt position located at our headquarters on Newbury Street in Boston. Some of the outstanding benefits include medical, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, generous paid time off, paid holidays, Employee Assistance Program, tuition reimbursement, FSA, 403(b) Retirement plan, and so much more!

Please send resume and a compelling cover letter to, Michelle Major, Director of Human Resources michelle.major@americanancestors.org.  
Please include your last name and Executive Director in the subject of your email.

No phone calls please.

Grade 28          $ 130,000- $136,500