Architectural Historian- Preservation Associate

State-of-Nebraska; Lincoln (NE); On-site; USD 30,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stable Employment Opportunity

Career Development and Learning

Paid Holidays

Generous Leave Accruals

Work-Life Balance

Job summary

The Nebraska State Historical Society (NSHS) is seeking an energetic Architectural Historian to join the Architectural Team and support documentation, evaluation, and preservation of Nebraska’s historic built environment. The role works on the Highway Archaeology Program, collaborating with NDOT and cultural resource professionals.

Responsibilities include archival research, field surveys, and preparing technical reports.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in history, archeology, architectural history or closely related field; or bachelor’s plus two years’ relevant experience.
• Familiarity with Great Plains history and architectural surveys is preferred.
• Proficiency with ArcGIS Pro and ability to document findings clearly.

Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth research on architectural history using primary and secondary sources.
• Identify and evaluate properties for National Register eligibility through archival research, field survey, and documentation.
• Assess impacts of undertakings on historic properties under NHPA, NEPA and related laws.
• Prepare detailed technical reports summarizing survey results.
• Utilize ArcGIS Pro and ESRI GIS tools to document project data and produce professional maps.
• Other duties as assigned within the program scope.

Skills

ArcGIS Pro

Geographic Information Systems

Research skills

Written & verbal communication

Education

Master’s degree in history/archeology/architectural history

Bachelor’s degree in history/archeology/architectural history

Tools

ESRI GIS tools

Photography analysis

Job description

The work we do matters!Hiring Agency:Nebraska State Historical Society - Agency 54Location:Lincoln, NEHiring Rate:$22.909Job Posting:JR2026-00030166 Architectural Historian- Preservation Associate (Open)Applications No Longer Accepted On (If no date is displayed, job is posted as open until closed):11-26-2026Job Description:The Nebraska State Historical Society (NSHS) is seeking an energetic team member to join our Architectural Team to contribute to the documentation, evaluation, and preservation of Nebraska’s historic built environment.The position is part of the Highway Archeology Program (HAP), which operates within the State Archeology Office (SAO) through a longstanding partnership between NSHS and the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT). HAP supports NDOT in meeting its responsibilities under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).As an Architectural Historian, you will conduct research and fieldwork throughout Nebraska, identify and document historic buildings and structures, and evaluate their historical significance. You’ll work collaboratively with cultural resource professionals, Tribal representatives, state and federal agencies, and the public.Why Join Us:Stable Employment OpportunityCareer Development and Learning Opportunities156% Match on first 4.8% contribution to Retirement Plan13 Paid HolidaysGenerous Leave Accruals and BenefitsOpportunity to be a part of an organization that Values Work Life BalanceCheck out the Benefits: https://das.nebraska.gov/personnel/wellness/active-employee.htmlJob Duties:Conduct in-depth research on architectural history and context using primary and secondary source materials.Identify and evaluate architectural properties for potential eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places through archival research, field survey, written documentation, and photography.Assess the impacts of proposed undertakings on historic properties in accordance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), Section 4(f) of the Department of Transportation Act, and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).Prepare and submit detailed technical reports summarizing the results of architectural surveys and evaluations.Utilize ArcGIS Pro and other ESRI GIS tools to document project data and produce accurate, professional maps.Perform additional duties as assigned which may include supporting other departments or teams as needed, participating in interdepartmental committees or working groups, and engaging in community outreach and public education efforts related to historic preservation.Other duties assigned within the scope of the classification.Requirements / Qualifications:Minimum Qualifications: Master’s degree in history, archeology, architectural history or closely related field; OR Bachelor’s degree in any of the above noted fields plus one of the following: a) two years’ experience in research, writing or teaching in a related field or b) substantial contribution through research and publication to the body of scholarly knowledge as determined applicable based on Secretary of the Interior Professional Qualifications Standards (36 CFR Part 61, Appendix A).Preferred Qualifications: Familiarity with Great Plains history, especially the style and trends of architecture and engineering through time. Prior experience writing technical reports and providing quality control review of field documents, site forms, etc. Previous experience with the regulatory framework surrounding cultural resource management (i.e., Section 106, Section 4(f) and NEPA). Demonstrated experience in architectural survey (archival research, photography analysis)Other: This position requires travel. As such, the incumbent must be able to present a valid driver’s license, or another form of reliable transportation. Regular and Reliable attendance is required.Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:Knowledge of cultural resource management methodology and the standards for architectural survey, inventory and evaluation.Ability to understand, interpret, and apply historic preservation and cultural resource regulations, policies, procedures, and laws.Proficiency with ArcGIS Pro.Excellent problem-solving skills, including the ability to establish priorities and make decisions independently.Effective interpersonal skills.Excellent written and oral communication skills.Must be committed to the organization's core values and demonstrate them regularly in their work.If you're currently employed by the State of Nebraska, please don't apply through this external career site. Instead, log in to Workday and open the Jobs Hub - Internal Apply app from your home landing page. You can access Workday anytime through the Link web page: https://link.nebraska.gov/BenefitsWe offer a comprehensive package of pay, benefits, paid time off, retirement and professional development opportunities to help you get the most out of your career and life. Your paycheck is just part of your total compensation.Check out all that the State of Nebraska has to offer! Benefit eligibility may vary by position, agency and employment status. For more information on benefits, please visit: https://statejobs.nebraska.gov/index.html#benefitsEqual Opportunity StatementThe State of Nebraska values our teammates as well as a supportive environment that strives to promote diversity, inclusion, and belonging. We recruit, hire, train, and promote in all job classifications and at all levels without regard to race, color, religion, sex. age, national origin, disability, marital status or genetics.