Historic Preservation Specialist
A professional responsible for safeguarding buildings, landscapes, and artifacts of historical significance to ensure their enduring legacy.
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Sample Job Descriptions for Historic Preservation Specialist
Below are the some sample job descriptions for the different experience levels, where you can find the summary of the role, required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
Junior (0-2 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As a Junior Historic Preservation Specialist, you will assist in safeguarding the historical integrity of buildings, structures, and cultural resources. You will work with a team dedicated to the conservation and restoration of historic properties in a manner that honors their significance and promotes their preservation for future generations.
Required Skills
- Research and analysis
- Technical writing
- Historical knowledge
- Collaboration
- Project management
- Public outreach
- Preservation technology
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in history, archaeology, architecture, historic preservation, or a related field.
- Understanding of the principles and practices of historic preservation.
- Ability to conduct research and compile comprehensive reports.
- Familiarity with preservation techniques and materials.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Responsibilities
- Conduct historical research on properties and sites to determine their historical significance.
- Assist in the preparation of reports and documentation for historic preservation projects.
- Contribute to the application process for historical markers, tax credits, and grants.
- Collaborate with architects, contractors, and other stakeholders in the preservation process.
- Monitor and report on the condition of historic sites and properties.
- Help organize public outreach efforts such as tours, workshops, and informational sessions.
- Support compliance with local, state, and federal historic preservation laws and guidelines.
Intermediate (2-5 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
The Historic Preservation Specialist will be responsible for the identification, preservation, and protection of historic buildings, structures, and areas. The specialist will work closely with other professionals to ensure that development and renovation projects comply with local, state, and federal preservation laws and standards.
Required Skills
- Strong analytical and research skills
- Proficient in Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Knowledge of historical building construction techniques and materials
- Ability to interpret architectural plans and specifications
- Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in historic preservation, architecture, archaeology, or a related field.
- 2-5 years of professional experience in historic preservation or a closely related field.
- Familiarity with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.
- Experience with historical research, architectural surveys, and preservation planning.
- Knowledge of federal, state, and local preservation laws and regulations.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work with diverse groups, including government agencies, property owners, and the public.
Responsibilities
- Conduct historical research on properties and districts to determine their eligibility for historic designation.
- Review and provide recommendations on proposed alterations, constructions, and demolitions affecting historic resources.
- Collaborate with architects, developers, and planners to integrate preservation concerns into project planning.
- Assist in the preparation of grant applications and manage awarded grants for preservation projects.
- Develop and maintain a historic resources inventory.
- Provide technical assistance and educational outreach to the public and other agencies about historic preservation.
- Prepare and review reports for compliance with the National Historic Preservation Act.
- Monitor and enforce preservation ordinances and regulations.
Senior (5+ years of experience)
Summary of the Role
The Historic Preservation Specialist is responsible for overseeing and providing expert guidance on projects that involve the maintenance, restoration, and preservation of historic buildings, sites, and artifacts. They play a critical role in ensuring that the integrity and authenticity of historical assets are maintained for future generations while adhering to applicable regulations and guidelines.
Required Skills
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
- Detail-oriented with a passion for historical preservation.
- Ability to lead and work on multidisciplinary teams.
- Experience in grant writing and fundraising.
- Proficiency in using historic preservation software and technologies.
Qualifications
- A Master's degree in Historic Preservation, Architecture, Art History, or a related field.
- Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in historic preservation or a related field.
- In-depth knowledge of preservation strategies and building conservation techniques.
- Proven ability to manage complex preservation projects.
- Familiarity with historic preservation laws, regulations, and compliance procedures.
- Strong organizational, research, and writing skills.
- Experience working with historical societies, heritage organizations, or similar groups.
Responsibilities
- Conduct historical research and prepare reports on historic buildings and sites.
- Provide expertise on the preservation of historical materials and building techniques.
- Review and comment on proposed alterations, restorations, or developments affecting historic properties.
- Advise on the management of historical collections and archiving strategies.
- Collaborate with architects, builders, and planners to ensure historical accuracy and preservation standards are met.
- Develop and implement preservation plans for historic sites and structures.
- Engage with local communities and stakeholders to promote the importance of historic preservation.
- Seek and administer grants and other funding sources for preservation projects.
- Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal historic preservation laws and guidelines.
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