Architectural Historian

S&ME, Inc.•Columbia, SC

About The Position

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.

Requirements

Education: One of the following:
Master's degree or PhD in architectural history, history, historic preservation, or a related field required - OR -
Bachelor's degree in history, architectural history, historic preservation, or a related field, PLUS the additional requirements identified by the Secretary of the Interior's 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
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 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 (field/laboratory samples and equipment)
Working outside of normal business hours and traveling (typically out-of-town and/or overnight) as project needs arise

Responsibilities

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.

Benefits

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
100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with a 5% company contribution
401(k) Retirement Plan to help you plan ahead
Term Life & Long-Term Care Coverage - available Spring 2026
Paid Holidays, PTO with rollover options, and Paid Maternity & Paternity Leave
Mentorship & Career Development Programs, Tuition Reimbursement, and Credential Incentive Program
Employee Recognition Program, $2,000 Referral Bonuses, and a company vehicle & fuel card for project-based roles