Architectural Historian

Architectural Historian

Requisition Number 2026-1610-04

Our Cultural Resources team is seeking an Architectural Historian to contribute to projects that shape how historic resources are evaluated and preserved. This role in our Columbia South Carolina office offers professional growth increased responsibility and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact through thoughtful high-quality work that supports clients and communities. Visit the Life tab on our LinkedIn profile to learn more about life at S&ME

What You Will Do

As an Architectural Historian you will play a critical role in shaping how historic resources are researched interpreted and presented guiding complex projects from field investigation through final deliverables while serving as a trusted technical and client-facing leader. This role blends architectural history expertise with hands-on project leadership mentorship and strategic collaboration ensuring high-quality outcomes that inform preservation decisions regulatory compliance and client success.

Lead Complex Fieldwork and Research

Direct and perform architectural history field investigations archival research and data analysis ensuring findings are thorough defensible and aligned with project objectives.

Guide and Mentor Project Teams

Provide field-based leadership and technical direction to junior staff overseeing work quality while fostering professional growth and consistency across project deliverables.

Manage Projects and Client Relationships

Take an active role in client engagement including developing work plans and proposals managing schedules tracking progress and evaluating budgets to keep projects on scope and on track.

Author and Finalize Technical Deliverables

Serve as the primary author for reports and proposals performing technical editing and guiding documents through finalization prior to senior review and submission.

Support Business Development and Marketing Efforts

Partner with senior staff on technical marketing and business development initiatives contributing subject-matter expertise that strengthens proposals and builds long-term client relationships.

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for someone who brings intellectual curiosity sound judgment and a collaborative approach to their work. You are comfortable working independently while also contributing thoughtfully within multidisciplinary teams and values clear communication accuracy and professional integrity.

Qualifications

Education

One of the following Masters degree or PhD in architectural history history historic preservation or a related field required - OR - Bachelors degree in history architectural history historic preservation or a related field PLUS the additional requirements identified by the Secretary of the Interiors Professional Qualifications Standards and Code of Federal Regulations 36 CFR Part 61

Experience

Minimum of 6 years of experience in historical research and writing including being able to present clear precise analytical and authoritative arguments. S&ME may request a writing sample from qualified candidates

Key Competencies

National Historic Preservation Act NHPA Section 106 advanced training is required such as National Preservation Institute NPI The Meaning of Effects Effective Participation and Response Strategies Agreement Documents Proficiently conduct architectural field surveys complete state site forms and utilize geographic information system software

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

This role involves hands-on work in outdoor environments and with Company-provided Personal Protection Equipment PPE youll need to be comfortable with

Working outdoors in varying weather conditions

Carrying equipment and walking through various types of vegetation on paved and unpaved surfaces for the duration of the day

Routinely lifting and carrying 40-50lbs fieldlaboratory samples and equipment

Working outside of normal business hours and traveling typically out-of-town andor overnight as project needs arise

We Are S&ME

At S&ME were committed to your growth professionally and personally. With over 50 years of experience delivering innovative solutions in geotechnical civil environmental and construction materials engineering weve built a strong foundation for long-term careers. Our team of over 1000 employee-owners across 10 states collaborates to create a meaningful impact on our clients and communities.

When you join S&ME you become part of a collaborative honest and people-focused culture that invests in your success. We offer exciting project opportunities ongoing training and a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family. This is more than a job its a place to grow thrive and build a future.

What We Offer

Comprehensive Health & Wellness Programs

Medical Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options

Wellness Program offering 50 off per month on 2027 premiums

Pet Insurance for your furry family members

Ownership & Financial Perks

100 Employee Stock Ownership Plan ESOP with a 5 company contribution

401k Retirement Plan to help you plan ahead

Term Life & Long-Term Care Coverage - available Spring 2026

Work-Life Balance & Career Development

Paid Holidays PTO with rollover options and Paid Maternity & Paternity Leave

Mentorship & Career Development Programs

Tuition Reimbursement and Credential Incentive Program

Employee Recognition Program 2000 Referral Bonuses and a company vehicle & fuel card for project-based roles

If youre passionate about making an impact and want to work with a firm committed to our employees and providing quality service to our clients wed love to hear from you

This full-time role offers competitive pay based on experience. Candidates must comply with our Fleet Management Substance Policy and Reference Check requirements. Only candidates with valid employment eligibility I-9 will be considered. Visa assistance is not available. S&ME reserves the right to hire internally or externally at any time. No candidaterecruiter calls personal calls or walk-ins are accepted.