PT, 10 month, Research and Design-Cultural Landscapes and Climate Change

PRIMARY FUNCTION

The Research and Design Fellow- Cultural Landscapes is a term-limited, research- and design-based position for those in fields related to landscape architecture, architecture, engineering, design, or historic preservation. They will complete a project focusing on the cultural landscape of one of Historic New England’s properties with additional assessment on the impacts on that landscape due to climate change. Reporting to the Vice President of Property Care and Climate Action, the Research and Design Fellow- Cultural Landscapes is a member of the Property Care team and collaborates with colleagues across the organization including collections and the visitor experience. The Study Center Manager is a key partner for this position.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

There are two primary focuses of the 2026-2027 project at the Codman Estate in Lincoln, MA. The first is an assessment of the Italian Garden and an assessment of existing conditions and development of recommendations for preservation and restoration. The second is a broader survey of the impacts of weather historically and climate change more recently on the cultural landscape over the years with special emphasis on the trees.

• Review the historical and contemporary records of the Italian Garden at the Codman Estate and create existing conditions report and plans that document specifically the status of the plantings, the masonry, and the garden objects on the site. Develop recommendations for restoration and preservation of those features with historic authenticity and climate change as the primary considerations. Develop a functional maintenance plan for the garden.
• Review historical and contemporary records of weather events at the Codman Estate and develop a graphic report noting the impacts over time with special attention to impacted tree communities. Develop recommendations for a replacement plan for Estate regarding the current tree at risk, the Ash tree.
• Other duties and special projects as assigned to support organizational goals and objectives based on primary project status.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Current enrollment in or completed master’s degree program in a field related to the fellowship topic
• Experience with and access to CAD or other design software program
• A strong interest in historic landscapes and knowledge of New England culture and history preferred
• Means of transportation and ability to travel the New England region
• New England residency required during the tenure of the fellowship
• Strong belief in, and demonstrated commitment to, Historic New England’s mission

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

This is an hourly, non-exempt, 24 hour per week position, typically a 4- to 5-hour day plus a thirty-minute unpaid meal break, per state labor regulations. This position is remote based, with occasional New England region travel required. This position requires flexible availability for evening and weekend work.

Originally posted on Himalayas