Historic Preservation Assistant

South Dakota State Historical Society, State of South Dakota

South Dakota | Full Time | Historic Preservation, Government

Salary Range

Job : 34316
Agency: Department of Education – South Dakota State Historical Society
Location: Pierre, SD
Salary: $22.98-$25.85/hr., depending on qualifications
Pay Grade: H
Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Come join the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), where our mission is to identify, protect, and preserve the historic and cultural resources of South Dakota. As part of the South Dakota State Historical Society, SHPO collaborates with federal, state, tribal, and local partners to support preservation projects statewide.

The Historic Preservation Assistant performs administrative, technical, and customer service duties in support of SHPO’s preservation programs. This position is suitable for applicants entering the field of historic preservation as well as those seeking future professional advancement. This role offers meaningful exposure to preservation programs and may serve as a career development pathway for individuals interested in advancing into historic preservation specialist positions within SDSHS or the broader preservation community.

• Support SHPO staff with administrative duties, records management, and digital workflows.
• Assist with intake and preparation of materials related to archaeological and architectural surveys, Section 106 review processes, and National Register documentation.
• Maintain preservation databases, contact lists, program materials, and digital systems.
• Serve as the first point of contact for members of the public, local governments, consultants, and preservation partners.
• Assist in preparing documentation for meetings, federal grant reports, and outreach activities.
• Provide logistical support for public events, educational programs, and inter-agency communication.
• Contribute to website content updates and routine office operations.

• Successful candidate must become a Notary Public (all associated costs will be covered by the employer).

• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a supportive team while completing tasks independently.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments, exercise judgment, and problem-solve.
• Interest in building a long-term career in historic preservation or cultural resource stewardship.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in history, historic preservation, anthropology, archaeology, architectural history, museum studies, or related fields.
• Candidates with advanced degrees or experience may qualify for the upper end of the salary range.
• Experience in cultural resource management, GIS, archives, museums, tribal institutions, or public history.
• Coursework related to American Indian Studies, Great Plains history, archaeology, or cultural heritage.
• Strong writing, research, or public outreach experience.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Ability to maintain digital and physical files and to learn database and GIS-based systems.
• Ability to input and organize technical information for preservation programs.
• Attention to detail in preparing correspondence, reports, and public-facing materials.
• Ability to assist with scheduling, documentation, public inquiries, and program coordination.
• Skills in research, writing, website updates, and public communication are beneficial.

For more information on the Department of Education – SD State Historical Society, please visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..