02/01/1986 26540

HISTORIC PRESERVATION SPECIALIST

DEFINITION: This is professional work in facilitating the identification, and evaluation and preservation of historical resources through the Historic Preservation Program of the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission.

An employee in this class performs work evaluating and facilitating restoration activities, and may serve in identifying, researching, documenting, registering, and assisting in the preservation of historically significant buildings, structures, districts, neighborhoods, and sites for the Pennsylvania Historic Preservation Program. Is responsible for participating in or conducting programs designed to stimulate public interest and awareness of historic preservation and restoration projects in the Commonwealth. Provides information, advice, and consultation to public agencies and private persons and groups on preservation and restoration projects. Through contact with or upon request, assists with or facilitates the preparation of applicants to the National Register of Historic Places. Reviews and comments on Federal and state undertakings which may effect historic or archaeological resources. The employee assists public and privateinstitutions, agencies and persons by interpreting and administering regulations pertaining to the National Register of Historic Places, the National Historic Preservation Act, and Commonwealth historical, archaeological and preservation requirements. The work also involves directing historic site surveys, research, compilation of bibliographical and architectural data, the preparation of historical summaries and abstracts to support evaluations of historic significance. Work is performed under the direction of the Historic Preservation Supervisor. Work is reviewed while in progress and upon completion for compliance with procedures, regulations, policies and results.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Identifies the historic or architectural significance of resources nominated to the National Register of Historic Places.

Reviews topographical maps to determine proximity of sites and resources to staff and Federal projects.

Directs or conducts surveys, research, documentation in identifying, certifying and registering historically, architecturally or culturally significant buildings, sites, structures, districts, neighborhoods, municipalities, and other areas for the Pennsylvania Historic Preservation Program.

Coordinates the review and submission of nominations of historic properties to the National Register of Historic Places.

Develops and provides public information on preservation and Commonwealth preservation activities through the news media, speaking engagements, annual conferences, special programs, workshops, seminars and other educational programs.

Prepares articles for publication in preservation and historic journals, handbooks, brochures and quarterly bureau newsletter.

Interprets and administers Federal and state laws and regulations protecting historic properties.

Assists communities in establishing municipal historical districts under the provisions of state enabling legislation. Prepares information on historic districts for certification of significance by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission.

Evaluates restoration and preservation projects in accordance with Federal and state regulations and policies established by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, and the Bureau for Historic Preservation.

Reviews Federally funded or licensed projects for their impact upon historic properties and consults with other state agencies to assure that their plans, programs, code regulations and other activities contribute to the preservation of historic resources.

Regularly provides reports on preservation and restoration projects, private and publically funded projects to the Director, Bureau for Historic Preservation.

Performs other work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of American, Pennsylvania or architectural history with particular reference to the significance of major periods, architectural styles, and trends.

Knowledge of the methods, techniques and sources used to research historically and architecturally significant buildings.

Knowledge of restoration and preservation techniques and skills used in the restoration and preservation of significant structures, buildings.

Ability to acquire skills in map reading and topography.

Ability to write clearly and develop publications, newsletters and press releases.

Ability to evaluate the architectural and historically significant structures and sites.

Ability to present information to organizations and public groups through meetings and speeches.

Ability to evaluate and direct rehabilitation, restoration and preservation projects.

Ability to learn and apply Federal regulations as they apply to preservation projects and programs.

Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with staff and public and private groups concerned with preservation and restoration of architecturally significant buildings.

Ability to conduct briefings, seminars, training, workshops and conferences.

Ability to direct or independently carry out program responsibilities.

Ability to read and interpret architectural plans and specification.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: Two or more years of experience working on an architectural survey, an architectural restoration and preservation project or program, and a bachelor's degree in architectural history, American history, art history or course work in Pennsylvania history.

                                                                                                                                           or

Any equivalent combination of experience and training.