Consulting Associate, Architectural Historian

ERM • Duluth, GA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

At ERM, your work doesn’t sit on a shelf—it shapes how communities grow, how infrastructure is built, and how history is respected. As an entry‑level Architectural Historian, you’ll step into a hands‑on, field‑forward role where your research, observations, and documentation directly inform nationally significant environmental and cultural resource decisions. This is an opportunity to build real experience, contribute meaningfully to compliance and preservation efforts, and grow your career with a global leader in environmental consulting and sustainability. ERM is seeking a Consulting Associate, Architectural Historian based in Duluth, GA. You’ll collaborate with experienced historians and multidisciplinary teams while leading field survey work, supporting regulatory compliance under the National Historic Preservation Act, and producing high‑quality technical documentation. If you’re passionate about architectural history, enjoy fieldwork, and are ready to take the next step in your professional journey, this role offers both impact and growth. Why This Role Matters Historic places tell the story of who we are—and protecting them requires thoughtful research, careful documentation, and strong regulatory insight. In this role, you’ll help ensure that historic properties are properly identified, evaluated, and considered as part of federal and state decision‑making. Your contributions will support compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and help balance development with preservation across diverse landscapes and communities. What Your Impact Is Lead and support surveys of above‑ground historic properties across varied geographic regions Contribute directly to National Register of Historic Places eligibility evaluations Help assess project effects on historic resources under federal and state regulations Produce clear, defensible documentation that supports permitting and regulatory decisions Represent ERM professionally while working in the field and interacting with the public What You’ll Bring You’re detail‑oriented, curious, and motivated to learn. You’re comfortable balancing fieldwork with technical writing and enjoy working both independently and as part of a team. You’re eager to build your expertise while contributing to high‑quality cultural resource work in a fast‑paced consulting environment.

Requirements

• B.A. in Architectural History, Historic Preservation, or a related field (M.S. preferred)
• Meet Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for professional qualifications in Architectural History or Historic Architecture
• Recent graduate to 2 years of relevant experience in survey and evaluation of historic architectural resources
• Strong knowledge of architectural styles and materials
• Strong writing skills with high attention to detail and QA/QC standards
• Understanding of visual Area of Potential Effects (APE) and how it is refined based on project and permitting standards
• Experience with photo documentation of structures
• Ability to work outdoors in variable weather conditions and on varied terrain, sometimes for extended periods
• Willingness to work weekends and more than 40 hours per week when required
• Comfortable speaking with members of the public
• Ability to travel frequently and on short notice (up to 75% field time, including multi‑week assignments during peak survey season)
• Ability to follow instructions, work independently, and take initiative to meet project deadlines
• Willingness to comply with corporate Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) requirements
• Periodic drug and alcohol testing required
• This position is not eligible for immigration sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

• Basic knowledge of architectural survey requirements for federal and state agencies (e.g., USACE, NPS, FERC, FCC, DEQ)
• Experience with digital SLR cameras
• GIS, graphics, and/or database experience
• Experience driving and navigating in rural environments

Responsibilities

• Plan, develop, and perform surveys of above‑ground historic properties
• Document and photograph buildings, structures, and other historic resources
• Prepare appropriate sections of cultural resources reports describing survey methods, findings, and analysis
• Complete state‑specific documentation forms
• Assist with project planning and logistics
• Support assessments of effects under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act
• Comply with corporate HSE policies and procedures
• Perform additional duties as assigned, including general administrative tasks supporting day‑to‑day office operations

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level