Research & Interpretation Director
Springfield
Saturday, 09 May 2026
Join a world class institution!! The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (ALPLM) is hiring a Research and Interpretation Director to help share Lincoln's legacy and the vast history of the State of Illinois. The ideal candidate is highly organized, personable, can work independently as well as with a team, and has a passion for exploring the untold stories of history. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is a world class institution that welcomes more than 250,000 visitors every year and that houses one of the world's best collections of Lincoln related documents, artifacts and audiovisual materials. We invite qualified applicants to apply for the position of Research and Interpretation Director and help ALPLM continue to chronicle the life of one of our nation's greatest Presidents. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum offers a robust benefit package including: Monday-Friday schedule Health, life, vision, and dental insurance Paid Parental leave Pension Plan Deferred Compensation, and other pre-tax benefit programs Employees earn (12) paid sick days annually (10-25) paid vacation days (based on years of service) Employees earn (3) paid personal days (pro-rated based on start date) (13-14) paid state holidays annually Work hours and schedule will be mutually agreed upon by supervisor during the onboarding process. Why Work for Illinois? Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home. No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois. Essential Functions Serves as the agency's in-house expert and spokesperson on issues regarding historical accuracy and interpretive content. Plans, develops, organizes, directs and implements the policies and procedures and acts authoritatively on any policy making issues affecting the division. Directs a team of scholars and historians in the collaborative process of reviewing agencymaterials including through. Travels and appears before groups as spokesperson to promote the agency and its mission and goals and to present on research topics related to Abraham Lincoln, Illinois History and Midwest history. In coordination with agency leadership, serves as the liaison between the ALPLM and other research institutions and centers. Serves as full-line supervisor. Develops and administers the division budget. In coordination with the Finance division, seeks and administers supplemental funding from various granting agencies. Minimum Qualifications Knowledge, skill and mental development equivalent to completion of four (4) years of college. Requires four years' experience in historical research, writing and editing, and/or in teaching American history / public history (or related curriculum) on the collegiate level, or five years in historical or research library in an administrative capacity. Preferred Qualifications Master's degree or PhD in history, museum interpretation, collective memory, or related field. Certificate in museum or cultural institution interpretation. Four (4) years' experience in public speaking and/or development of presentations focused on historical subject matter. Two (2) years of supervisory experience. Three (3) years' experience managing a major program or project. Two (2) years of work experience developing and managing a budget. Two (2) years of experience working in a research library and/or museum. Two (2) years of experience working in the public sector. Two (2) years of experience editing documents for publication. Two (2) years of experience writing and/or administering grants. Conditions of Employment Requires a valid drivers' license. Requires ability to pass a background check Requires ability to work at various times outside of normal office hours as needed Requires ability to travel overnight, occasionally Requires ability to travel Requires use of an agency-supplied mobile phone This position has been found to meet the requirements in section 4 A-101 of the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act requiring the occupant/employee to file a Statement of Economic Interest. The Illinois Governmental Ethics Act (5 ILCS 420/4 A et seq.) requires certain state officials and employees to file annual Statements of Economic Interest with the Office of the Secretary of State that will be made available for examination and copying by the public. All employees required to file a Statement of Economic Interest are also required to file the Supplemental Statement of Economic Interest with Executive Ethics Commission. (See Executive Order 15-09) Fines and penalties apply to untimely filings. Certain provisions of the revolving door restrictions contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-45 apply to this position. As a result, the employee should be aware that if offered non-State employment during state employment or within one year immediately after ending State employment, the employee shall, prior to accepting any such non-State employment offer, notify the Office of the Executive Inspector General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor (OEIG) or may be subject to a fine. The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description. About the Agency The ALPLM is passionate in our mission to inspire civic engagement through the diverse lens of Illinois history and sharing with the world the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln. As caretakers of a one-of-a-kind collection of artifacts, we consider our work to learn, teach and share history a great honor. The people of the ALPLM strive to employ innovative approaches to create a positive impact for the future, as can be inspired by the past. As preservationists of Illinois' diverse history, we strive to build, maintain, and make accessible a growing record of history for today's inquisitive explorers as well as those who shall, in the future, rely on our efforts. Our learning-centered agency insists on the values of honesty and integrity, intentional leadership, equitable collaboration and transparent accountability. The ALPLM boasts pristine facilities, a creative environment, and professional staff with a variety of backgrounds and talents. Work Hours: 8:30 am -5:00 pm, Monday - Friday. Headquarter Location: 112 N 6th St, Springfield, Illinois, 62701 Work County: Sangamon. Agency Contact: Pat Young. Email: Patricia. Young 4@illinois.gov. Phone #: 217-785-7940 Posting Group: Arts, Design & Cultural; Leadership & Management Revolving Door:Certain provisions of the revolving door restrictions contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-45 apply to this position. As a result, the employee should be aware that if offered non-State employment during State employment or within one year immediately after ending State employment, the employee shall, prior to accepting any such non-State employment offer, notify the Office of the Executive Inspector General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor (“OEIG”) or may be subject to a fine.