Community Heritage Researcher

Disability Arts; Greater London; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent London theatre seeks a Community Heritage Researcher to support the documentation and storytelling of its 125-year history. The successful candidate will engage in oral history collection, conduct archive research, and collaborate with a project team to highlight the contributions of diverse community members. Ideal for those passionate about cultural heritage and community engagement, applications are welcome through the provided email by 10am on Mon 26 Jan 2026.

Qualifications

• Experience in collecting oral histories and researching archives.
• Strong communication skills to engage with community participants.
• Ability to document and present historical narratives.

Responsibilities

• Support the documentation of Hackney Empire's 125-year history.
• Engage with archives and cultural institutions to gather materials.
• Work closely with the project team and young participants.

Skills

Oral history collection

Archive research

Community engagement

Research documentation

Job description

Hackney Empire seeks a Community Heritage Researcher to support the uncovering, curating and communicating of the rich 125-year history of the theatre.

Hackney Empire is about to embark on the Development Phase of a project, The Heart of Hackney, made possible by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, thanks to National Lottery players.

The Community Heritage Researcher will work closely with the wider project team and young participants to identify and document the contributions of former artists, audiences, and community participants to the 125-year history of Hackney Empire.

The role involves collecting oral histories, supporting archive research, and advising on the historical content to inform the exhibition and storytelling on site at Hackney Empire, in the local neighbourhood and across the London Borough of Hackney.

The researcher will engage with archives, private collectors, and cultural institutions to identify materials and stories that illuminate Hackney Empire’s role as a platform for underrepresented artists and communities.

This role is sought in conjunction with a Cultural Heritage Researcher in a mirrored job description. We are open to proposals from candidates who are interested in combining both these roles.

To apply: Please send your CV and a covering letter (no more than one sides of A4) setting out your interest in the role, how you meet the person specification and examples of similar projects you have worked on previously. Applications should be sent to [e-mail] including in the subject line reference HECOHR by 10am on Mon 26 Jan 2026.