Architectural Historian

Role Overview

An Architectural Historian is required for a time-limited project based in Trenton, NJ, involving an architectural reconnaissance survey in flood-prone New Jersey communities. The project's goal is to identify historic resources and areas with little likelihood of historic property presence in regions vulnerable to repetitive flood damage.

Key Responsibilities

• Organize and lead planning for survey fieldwork, ensuring efficient coordination of data collection, processing, and review by collaborating agencies.
• Conduct background research and produce summary histories of survey communities to support desktop reviews and fieldwork preparation.
• Review previously surveyed areas to recommend updates, identify needs for further fieldwork, and refine data.
• Manage scheduling and logistics of survey operations including transportation reservations, staff assignments, and selection of target communities for each field session.
• Ensure timely transfer and proper management of field data including GPS records, photographs, videos, and GIS datasets.
• Compile documentation of survey field activities and assist GIS personnel in data reconciliation and map production.
• Oversee internal and external review of survey data, integrating feedback into preliminary and final survey reports and GIS outputs.
• Prepare quarterly reports detailing project status, metrics, and upcoming activities for involved agencies.
• Offer technical support regarding survey projects to partners and internal teams.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Required Skills and Knowledge

• Understanding of federal historic preservation regulations and policies.
• Familiarity with New Jersey's architectural history and architectural survey techniques.
• Experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and GPS data acquisition.
• Good grasp of database management and competency using online data platforms.
• Proficiency with digital cameras and architectural photography in field surveys.
• Ability to adapt quickly to new information and changing priorities.
• Strong verbal and written communication paired with solid organizational skills.
• Valid driver’s license essential.
• Preference for candidates with demonstrated architectural survey experience covering fieldwork, analysis, and report writing.
• Skill in Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat applications.

Experience Requirements

• Minimum two years of full-time professional involvement in research, teaching, or writing related to American architectural history or restoration architecture at academic institutions, historical organizations, agencies, or museums; or
• Significant contributions through research and publication advancing scholarly knowledge within American architectural history.

Work Details

• Weekly commitment of at least 35 hours.
• Lunch break duration from 30 to 60 minutes (unpaid).
• Work performed onsite in office settings.
• Dress code adherence: business casual.

Additional Information

This full-time position is funded for two years under a cooperative agreement with the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management. The role demands in-person attendance at offices in Trenton, NJ. The recruiting agency specializes in connecting skilled professionals with fitting roles, leveraging over 20 years of recruitment expertise to facilitate successful talent placements.