Research Manager (Mid-South)

When you join Ancestry, you join a human-centered company where every person’s story is important. Ancestry®, the global leader in family history, connects everyone with their past so they can discover, preserve, and share their unique family stories. With our unparalleled collection of more than 65 billion records, over 3.5 million subscribers, and over 27 million people in our growing DNA network, customers can discover their family story and gain a new level of understanding about their lives.

About the role

Ancestry is seeking an experienced genealogist specializing in the United States Mid-South and South, who is eager to contribute to the organization’s long-term success. The candidate will lead research projects, produce exemplary research, and must be proficient in project and client management. Successful research managers are flexible, detail-oriented, strong in technology, and meet industry standards for genealogical research. They assist team members in developing their skills and consistently meet performance metrics.

Responsibilities

• Conduct specialized research in the U.S. Mid-South and South, particularly the Colonial South. Quickly determine research feasibility, locate necessary resources, and produce clear research logs, academic narrative reports, and client updates according to company standards.
• Manage 30 to 70 active client projects post-onboarding, including defining scope, budget, and resource allocation. Ensure project deliverables meet company and industry standards while maintaining an average of 5.5 billable hours per day to fulfill annual targets.
• Set clear expectations, update clients every 4 to 6 weeks, and address questions or concerns promptly. Partner closely with Client Relationship Managers (CRMs) and research staff to ensure session objectives are met.
• Oversee research accuracy and efficiency within your assigned pod or contractor network. Conduct regular pod meetings, delegate work strategically, and coach research staff on genealogical methodologies, escalating non-genealogical or persistent performance issues appropriately.

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years of professional genealogical research experience, backed by a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in History, English, or comparable practical experience.
• Advanced expertise in general U.S. research with a focus on Southern and Mid-South regions, advanced brick-wall research methodologies, and evidence analysis.
• Proficient in applying DNA test results to resolve complex genealogical problems and managing the full research lifecycle within budget—including citations, record abstracts, and research journals.
• Proven ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple concurrent projects effectively in a high-volume, billable environment.
• Skilled in setting client expectations, resolving conflicts, working within collaborative team environments, and providing constructive feedback and coaching.

Benefits

We offer excellent benefits and a competitive compensation package. For additional information regarding our benefits and career opportunities, please visit our website at http://ancestry.com/careers.

Pay

The base salary range for this position is $64,300.00 - $68,510.80 with eligibility for bonus, equity, and comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and vision. The actual salary will vary by geographic region and job experience.