As-Needed Architectural Historian – San Diego County

Helix Environmental Planning is seeking an As-Needed Architectural Historian in San Diego County to support cultural resources and built-environment studies. The role involves field surveys, archival research, and technical documentation. Candidates should have a degree in History or related field, experience in historical research, and familiarity with local regulations. This position is flexible and project-driven, with variable hours and no guaranteed minimum.
As-Needed Architectural Historian – San Diego County
HELIX is seeking an As-Needed Architectural Historian to support cultural resources and built-environment studies in Southern California. This As-Needed Architectural 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. HELIX offers cultural resources, environmental, biological, acoustical, air quality, and GIS services to both the public and private sectors. Our cultural resources staff completes all types of cultural resources studies for a wide range of local, state, and federal projects.


The successful As-Needed Architectural Historian candidate will assist in conducting cultural resources/built environment studies for a wide range of project types, reporting to the Cultural Resources Group Manager. Responsibilities will include historical research, preparation of historic documentation including California Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) 523 series forms, assisting in preparation of technical reports and communications with other cultural resources and environmental planning staff, subconsultants, clients, and agency staff.


Duties May Include, but Not Limited To:



field surveys within San Diego and Riverside counties
in-person and online historical research
preparation of historic documentation including California Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) 523 series forms,
assisting in preparation of technical reports, and
communications with other cultural resources and environmental planning staff, subconsultants, clients, and agency staff. With this being an as-needed position, the number of hours is expected to vary and cannot be guaranteed.
Bachelor’s degree in History, Architectural History, or a closely related field, or equivalent work experience
Familiarity with historic preservation and cultural resources management/regulations within San Diego area and the State of California
Experience conducting historical research in San Diego: specifically accessing government records (building permits and assessor records), research libraries (San Diego History Room, San Diego History Center) and other collections
Strong research, writing, organizational, and verbal communication skills.

Additional Skills a Plus



Experience authoring historic contexts
Experience preparing California DPR forms

Hourly wages will be based on qualifications and/or experience. Expected starting pay range between $24 to $48 per hour.


This position is an as-needed position and is utilized to supplement our full-time workforce. You will not be guaranteed a minimum number of hours.


HELIX is an equal opportunity employer that is 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.


Job Category
Cultural Resources


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