THC Landscape Architect (Architect III) 26-04

JOB OBJECTIVE:  Performs advanced (senior-level) landscape architectural work for the Texas Historical Commission (THC). Work involves planning, designing, and overseeing the preservation, rehabilitation, and development of cultural landscapes at historic sites across the state. Duties include preparing construction documents, coordinating with contractors and consultants, ensuring compliance with preservation and accessibility standards, and providing technical assistance to staff and stakeholders. Works under minimal supervision with considerable latitude for initiative and independent judgment.

Essential Duties:

1. Formally examine, evaluate, and approve plans and construction documents for historic landscapes, parks, and grounds. Apply your professional seal as a Registered Landscape Architect to certify that all documents meet applicable standards, codes, and regulations, with particular emphasis on the preservation of historic resources.
2. Serve as an official representative of the project or division by conducting and attending meetings with internal staff, stakeholders, contractors, and external partners. Clearly communicate project objectives, updates, and technical requirements to ensure alignment and successful project outcomes.
3. Coordinate all landscape architecture activities with other THC divisions, state agencies, and external contractors. Facilitate seamless collaboration to integrate landscape preservation priorities with broader project goals and regulatory requirements.
4. Develop, review, and evaluate project plans, criteria, and procedures for a diverse range of landscape preservation and rehabilitation projects at historic sites. Ensure that all projects adhere to best practices, preservation guidelines, and the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards.
5. Create detailed plans, diagrams, charts, maps, and renderings using both traditional drafting methods and advanced design software. These materials will support project planning, stakeholder communications, and regulatory submittals.
6. Prepare comprehensive cost estimates, budgets, technical reports, and presentations for both internal and external review. Ensure that all financial documentation supports effective project management and fiscal accountability.
7. Actively participate in committees, task forces, and interdisciplinary project teams focused on landscape preservation, sustainability, accessibility, and site operations.
8. Provide expert technical advice and assistance to historic sites, contractors, consultants, and other stakeholders. Address complex landscape design challenges with solutions that balance preservation, accessibility, and sustainability.
9. Thoroughly review design and construction documents to confirm compliance with THC standards, state regulations, accessibility requirements, and historic preservation guidelines.
10. Oversee and inspect construction activities on site to ensure that work adheres to approved plans, specifications, quality standards, and project goals. Address any issues promptly to prevent impacts on historic resources.
11. Respond to inquiries from the public, provide authoritative technical guidance, and represent the THC in public presentations and forums related to historic landscape preservation.
12. Develop, manage, and monitor budgets for assigned projects. Ensure that all expenditures align with project objectives and funding requirements while maintaining rigorous cost control.
13. Lead the layout and design of complex landscape projects at historic sites, integrating principles of preservation, sustainability, and accessibility to enhance both the cultural value and public utility of historic landscapes.

Non-Essential Duties:

14.   Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications/Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture or similar degree from an accredited college or university.
• Licensed as a Landscape Architect in the State of Texas
• Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in landscape architecture, including site planning, construction document preparation, and project management.

Prefer:

• Experience with historic landscapes, cultural resource projects, or public sector projects.
• Knowledge of the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.
• Experience in state or local government project delivery and procurement processes.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities:

• Knowledge of cultural landscape preservation principles and practices.
• Knowledge of land planning, surveying, and site design.
• Knowledge of capital improvement program development and construction project management techniques.
• Knowledge of applicable state building codes, accessibility standards, ordinances, and regulations.
• Knowledge of state procurement, contracting, and budget development processes.
• Skill in preparing and interpreting construction plans, specifications, and technical documents.
• Skill in drafting, design, and the use of computer-aided design and graphics software.
• Skill in managing multiple projects and meeting deadlines.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with state employees, contractors, and the public.
• Skill in oral and written communication, including preparing clear and concise reports and giving public presentations.
• Skill in identifying and evaluating landscape conditions and materials.
• Skill in supervising, planning, and assigning the work of others.
• Ability to analyze data, discover discrepancies, and develop creative solutions.
• Ability to explain and enforce agency policies and preservation standards.
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and travel frequently.
• REGISTRATION, CERTIFICATION, OR LICENSURE:
• Must have or obtain a valid Driver’s License and Defensive Driving Course to operate state vehicles.

Licensed as a Landscape Architect in the State of Texas

ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL CONDITIONS:  Work involves working irregular hours other than 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with days off other than Saturdays, Sundays, or holidays. Work involves pulling and pushing, kneeling, stooping and bending, safely climbing, and safely lifting items up to 50 pounds. The workplace setting is a historic site, an office, or an outdoor setting where there is exposure to high temperatures, weather, dust, insects, and pollution. Work includes traveling on uneven pathways and unpaved surfaces.

MILITARY EMPLOYMENT PREFERENCE: All CAPPS Recruit job postings extend priority of service to veterans, a surviving spouse, orphan of a veteran who was killed while on active duty, spouse of a member of the US Armed Forces/Texas National Guard serving on active duty, or spouse of a veteran with a disability if the spouse is the primary income for the household. 

To receive Military Employment preference, a copy of the DD 214, NA Form 13038, VA Summary Benefits Letter, or a DD Form 1300 must be provided before an interview can be extended.

REMARKS (Application procedures, Special requirements):  State of Texas application must be submitted through the CAPPS website. Only applicants interviewed will be notified of their selection or non-selection.  Resumes will NOT be accepted in place of a completed application.

The Texas Historical Commission is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (gender, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), national origin, disability, age, military status, genetic information, or protected activity in recruitment, selection, appointment, training, promotion, retention, or any other personnel action or deny any benefits or participation in programs or activities which it sponsors.

Section 651.005 of the Government Code requires males, ages 18 through 25, to provide proof of their Selective Service registration or of their exemption from the requirement as a condition of state employment.

As part of the employment process, THC will conduct a driving and criminal background check.  Unsatisfactory information relevant to the position may disqualify the applicant from employment.

Disability access for testing and interview accommodations can be provided upon reasonable notice by contacting Human Resources at 512-305-6729.

THC participates in E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

Additional Military Crosswalk information can be accessed at:

Military Crosswalk for Occupational Category - Engineering and Design

Veterans: Go to www.texasskillstowork.com for assistance translating your military work experience and training courses into civilian job terms, qualifications/requirements, and skill sets.

For New Hires/Rehires: Health insurance is available the 1st of the following month after a 60-day waiting period.

An Equal Opportunity

Affirmative Action Employer