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Architectural Historian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Architectural Historian

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$52K - $68K/yr

We have an immediate opportunity for a full-time architectural historian in the Northern California area. This position will require fieldwork. Job Responsibilities * Conducting archival research

Terracon is seeking an Architectural Historian to join the growing Cultural Resources Team in our Macon, Georgia office. This is a full-time position with a diverse team of professionals in our ...

Terracon is seeking an Architectural Historian to join the growing Cultural Resources Team in our Macon, Georgia office. This is a full-time position with a diverse team of professionals in our ...

Terracon is seeking an Architectural Historian to join the growing Cultural Resources Team in our Macon, Georgia office. This is a full-time position with a diverse team of professionals in our ...

This Opportunity WSP is seeking a Lead Architectural Historian to join our Reno, NV office. Provides leadership within a sector of organization to ensure historian practices, subject matter ...

This Opportunity WSP is seeking a Lead Architectural Historian to join our Reno, NV office. Provides leadership within a sector of organization to ensure historian practices, subject matter ...

On-Call Architectural Historian

Oakland, CA · On-site

$25.32 - $42.26/hr

Step into Your New Role Kleinfelder is seeking On-Call Architectural Historians to support with public and private sector projects throughout California . The individual will assist with historical ...

The ideal candidate could be an archeologist or an architectural historian. This role is multifaceted and critical in ensuring compliance with state, local, and federal historical and archaeological ...

HDR is seeking a qualified, motivated Architectural Historian to join our growing Cultural Resources practice and support field projects and desktop reviews for projects throughout Southeast, and HDR ...

HDR is seeking a qualified, motivated Architectural Historian to join our growing Cultural Resources practice and support field projects and desktop reviews for projects throughout Southeast, and HDR ...

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Architectural Historian information

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$30.5K

$86.3K

$137.5K

How much do architectural historian jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for architectural historian in the United States is $86,335.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $105,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an Architectural Historian?

Architectural Historians spend their days conducting field surveys of historic sites, performing in-depth archival research, and preparing detailed reports for clients, government agencies, or preservation organizations. They often collaborate with architects, planners, archaeologists, and government officials to evaluate the historical significance of structures or communities. Depending on the project, they may also assess impacts of proposed developments, advise on restoration best practices, and present findings at public meetings. This role offers a dynamic mix of office-based research and on-site assessments, providing variety and opportunities to engage with both history and current development projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Architectural Historian position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Architectural Historian, you need a strong background in architectural history, preservation, research methodologies, and an advanced degree such as a master's in historic preservation or a related field. Familiarity with research databases, GIS mapping tools, archival resources, and understanding federal and state preservation guidelines (such as Section 106) are important technical aspects. Excellent written and verbal communication, analytical thinking, and attention to detail set standout professionals apart. These skills ensure accurate documentation, effective advocacy for preservation projects, and clear communication with clients, agencies, and the public.

What jobs can I get with architecture history?

An architectural historian can pursue careers such as preservationist, historic site manager, museum curator, or research analyst. These roles often involve analyzing historical buildings, conducting research, writing reports, and working with preservation organizations or government agencies.

What is the highest paying job for a historian?

The highest paying roles for historians often include positions such as university professors, museum directors, or senior research analysts, with salaries exceeding $80,000 annually. Careers in government or private consulting that require specialized knowledge and advanced degrees tend to offer higher compensation for experienced professionals in the field.

How much money do architectural historians make?

Architectural historians typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can increase with advanced degrees, certifications, and work in specialized or high-demand areas such as preservation or consulting firms.

What does an architectural historian do?

An architectural historian researches, documents, and analyzes historic buildings, structures, and sites to understand their cultural and architectural significance. They often work on preservation projects, prepare reports, and may use tools like archival research and field surveys to assess architectural styles and historical contexts.

What is an Architectural Historian job?

An Architectural Historian researches, analyzes, and documents the history of buildings, structures, and landscapes. They assess architectural significance, contribute to preservation efforts, and may work for government agencies, museums, or consulting firms. Their work includes archival research, writing reports, and advocating for historic preservation. They often collaborate with architects, planners, and preservationists to ensure historically significant sites are maintained and protected.

What cities are hiring for Architectural Historian jobs? Cities with the most Architectural Historian job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Architectural Historian jobs? The most popular types of Architectural Historian jobs are:
What states have the most Architectural Historian jobs? States with the most job openings for Architectural Historian jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Architectural Historian jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Architectural Historian jobs are:
As Needed Architectural Historian / Historian

As Needed Architectural Historian / Historian

HELIX ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING, INC.

San Diego, CA

$24 - $48/hr

Other

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Description

Preserve California's history-one project at a time.
HELIX Environmental Planning is seeking an As-Needed Architectural Historian / Historian to support cultural resources and built-environment studies throughout Southern California. This As-Needed Architectural Historian / Historian role is ideal for a San Diego-based professional who enjoys a balance of field surveys, archival research, and technical documentation in a flexible, project-driven environment.


Why HELIX?

HELIX is a California-based, employee-owned environmental consulting firm known for technical excellence, collaboration, and meaningful work. Our Cultural Resources team supports public and private projects across the state, delivering high-quality, defensible studies that meet local, state, and federal requirements. As an As-Needed Architectural Historian / Historian, you'll work alongside experienced cultural resources professionals on diverse and engaging projects.


Day in the Life of an As-Needed Architectural Historian / Historian

As an As-Needed Architectural Historian / Historian, you may conduct built-environment field surveys in San Diego and Riverside counties, perform in-person and online historical research, and prepare DPR 523 forms. You'll assist with technical reports and coordinate with cultural resources specialists, environmental planners, clients, subconsultants, and agency staff. Because this is an as-needed position, hours will vary based on project demand.


Key Responsibilities

  • Conduct architectural history and built-environment field surveys
  • Perform historical research using San Diego-area archives and public records
  • Prepare California DPR 523 series forms and supporting documentation
  • Assist with cultural resources technical reports
  • Communicate effectively with HELIX staff, clients, and agency personnel

Schedule & Location

  • As-needed, hourly position - no guarantee of hours, but estimating 10 hours/week
  • San Diego-based with local field assignments
  • Variable hours depending on workload
  • Must have a valid driver's license and ability to drive a HELIX vehicle

Pay

  • $24-$48 per hour, based on experience and qualifications

Apply Today

If you're ready to contribute as an As-Needed Architectural Historian / Historian and enjoy flexible, meaningful cultural resources work, apply through the HELIX website. A writing sample may be requested as part of the selection process.

Equal Opportunity Employer
HELIX is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and an inclusive work environment. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply regardless of gender, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, disability, age, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service or veteran status. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring, appraisal systems, promotions, training, and career development programs.


PM21

Requirements

 Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in History, Architectural History, or closely related field (or equivalent experience)
  • Familiarity with historic preservation and cultural resources regulations in California
  • Experience conducting historical research in San Diego (e.g., building permits, assessor records, local archives)
  • Strong research, writing, organizational, and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience authoring historic contexts
  • Experience preparing California DPR forms