Historic Preservation Specialist

County of Mecklenburg, NC • Charlotte, IA

4d • $69,389 - $104,083

About The Position

The Historic Preservation Specialist carries out essential functions of Mecklenburg County’s Historic Landmarks department and works closely with the Historic Preservation Manager to ensure that design review, landmark designation, and historic research processes align with the department’s and Historic Landmarks Commission’s goals. The role processes properties through the local landmark designation process for municipalities in Mecklenburg County, including drafting ordinances, coordinating public hearings and municipal staff, and presenting properties to the public and elected officials. The specialist also supports design review and Commission meetings, and may manage preservation projects, serve as a resource for committees, assist with department operations, and conduct or manage historic surveys and designation-report production.

The position requires at least two years of experience in historic preservation and/or planning, as well as a degree in Historic Preservation, Public History, Planning, Architecture, History, or Law. A combination of relevant education and experience is accepted. A valid North Carolina or South Carolina driver’s license is required, along with the ability to obtain and maintain a Mecklenburg County Operator’s Permit.

Requirements

• At least 2 years of experience in historic preservation and/or planning.
• A degree in Historic Preservation, Public History, Planning, Architecture, History, or Law; a combination of relevant education and experience is accepted.
• Valid North Carolina or South Carolina driver’s license.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Mecklenburg County Operator’s Permit.
• Knowledge of historic preservation principles and practices, architectural history, building construction and design, historic research techniques, building permitting and inspection processes, and municipal government operations.
• Skills in managing complex municipal processes, understanding architectural plans, managing and organizing data, oral and written communication, and handling and prioritizing multiple tasks.
• Demonstrated abilities in adaptability, planning and organization, communication, initiating action, collaboration, and developing others.
• Proficient in computer programs including Adobe and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Proficiency using project management programs.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree, professional accreditation, and/or expertise derived from work or academic experience.
• Historical research experience.
• Basic understanding of architecture.
• Local or city government experience.

Responsibilities

• Process properties through the landmark designation process for local municipalities in Mecklenburg County, including drafting ordinances, coordinating public hearings and municipal staff, and presenting properties to the public and elected officials.
• Assist the Historic Preservation Manager with the Historic Landmarks Commission’s design review functions.
• Assist the Director and Historic Preservation Manager in conducting and preparing for Commission meetings.
• May manage preservation projects aligned with strategic planning.
• May serve as a staff resource for committees.
• May assist the Historic Preservation Manager with day-to-day department activities.
• May conduct or manage historic resource surveys and manage production of historic designation reports.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level