Description

Performs intermediate skilled technical work leading planning processes and completing reports for appointed/elected body consideration; and related work as apparent or assigned. Work is performed under the limited supervision of the Principal Planner.

Examples of Duties

• Works with historic districts and properties including nationally recognized historic districts Old Salem and Historic Bethabara, as well as other properties and districts important to our diverse cultural history. 

• Provides professional staff support to the Forsyth County Historic Resource Commission.

• Review projects for compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act.  Works with federal, state and local agencies to assure compliance and protect historic resources. 

• Prepares historic preservation plans and ordinances, including studies of our diverse neighborhoods and populations.

• Intakes and processes certificates of appropriateness; consults with property owners, designers, construction personnel on appropriate work on historic structures; conducts field inspections of properties; and provides professional analysis and recommendations on proposed work.

• Seeks means to recognize and protect historic resources, including historic designations, historic markers, and special events. 

• Provides information and technical assistance to the public.  

• Assists with neighborhood revitalization, housing, downtown planning, and long-range planning.  

May be required to work outside normal work hours. 

Performs other duties as apparent or assigned.

Typical Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of City policies and procedures; knowledge of historic building materials, preservation technology, restoration, rehabilitation, maintenance methods, architectural history, photography, architectural illustration, and principles and practice of urban planning; thoroughness and attention to detail; demonstrated skills in working with property owners, designers, construction personnel, neighborhood groups, staff, and public officials; ability to manage projects, including coordinating the work of other staff; ability to complete assignments with minimal direction and supervision; ability to work effectively individually and as a member of a team; ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions; ability to analyze and systematically compile technical and statistical information and to prepare and present reports based on that information; excellent writing and public presentation skills, including the ability to present complex information in a concise and understandable manner to property owners, appointed/elected officials and the public; advanced skill in using Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint software, and position specific software; ability to respond effectively to inquiries and complaints and solve complex problems; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with property owners, designers, construction personnel, neighborhood groups, supervisors, co-workers, appointed/elected officials and members of the public.

Education and Experience

Master’s degree in historic preservation, planning, or related field, with three years of experience; or a Bachelor’s degree with five years of experience.  Experience working with the Secretary of Interior Standards and with a State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) is a plus. The successful candidate will be expected to meet the Secretary of Interior Professional Standards and be approved as a designated Certified Local Government staff person by the NC State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) within two (2) years of hire.

Physical Requirements

This work requires the occasional lifting and maneuvering of up to 50 pounds; using hands to finger, handle or feel; requires extensive periods of sitting and repetitive motion; frequent speaking or hearing; and occasionally requires standing, walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching or crawling, reaching with hands and arms and lifting. Work has standard vision requirements; vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word; hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels; work requires preparing and analyzing written or computer data, using of measuring devices, operating motor vehicles or equipment and observing general surroundings and activities; work is generally in a moderately noisy location (e.g. business office, light traffic).

Supplemental Information

Special Requirements

Ability to meet the Secretary of Interior Professional Standards and be approved as a designated Certified Local Government staff person by the NC State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) within two (2) years of hire.

Valid Drivers License