How to Be Historic Preservation Commissioner - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Sep 8, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The increased awareness of the need for historic preservation has led to the creation of Historic Preservation Commissions in many localities. These commissions are tasked with ensuring that the cultural and historical heritage of a community is respected and maintained, and their roles and responsibilities vary from place to place. They are often responsible for determining the eligibility of properties for listing on the National Register of Historic Places, reviewing applications for construction on historic sites, and providing advice and guidance on the preservation and rehabilitation of historic buildings. By doing so, these commissions help to protect and promote the unique history, architecture, and culture of a community, while helping to create an environment that encourages economic development, tourism, and quality of life.

Steps How to Become

Research the Historic Preservation Commission in your local area to determine what type of work is involved and the qualifications for becoming a Commissioner.
Contact your local government office and inquire about the process for becoming a Commissioner.
Submit an application or resume to the government office which outlines your qualifications and interest in becoming a Historic Preservation Commissioner.
Attend an interview with the local government office or Historic Preservation Commission to discuss your interest in the position and why you are a good fit for the role.
If selected, attend training sessions or workshops provided by the local government office or Historic Preservation Commission to become familiar with their policies and procedures.
Participate in meetings and vote on issues related to historic preservation in your local area.
Attend any other training sessions or workshops related to historic preservation that you may be invited to participate in.
Stay informed on all new developments in the field of historic preservation.

Historic preservation is an important part of our society and culture. It involves the protection and preservation of buildings, sites, and objects of historical significance. The goal is to ensure that these structures are preserved for future generations and to maintain their cultural value.

To properly protect these sites, Historic Preservation Commissioners are necessary. These commissioners must be reliable and efficient in their work in order to ensure the preservation of these historic landmarks. By having these commissioners in place, they can work with state and local governments to create preservation programs that are tailored to each specific site.

In addition, they can help educate the public on the importance of historic preservation and advocate for its protection. In doing so, Historic Preservation Commissioners can ensure that our historic sites are preserved for generations to come and help to maintain their cultural value.

You may want to check Digital Preservationist, Historic Preservation Planner, and Historical Research Analyst for alternative.

Job Description

Review applications for historic site nominations and recommend approval or denial.
Assist in the evaluation of construction projects to ensure they are compatible with local historic district standards.
Develop and recommend policies, regulations, and guidelines relating to historic preservation.
Provide advice to local governments on land use and development issues related to historic preservation.
Prepare reports and make presentations on local preservation issues.
Participate in public hearings and other public meetings related to historic preservation.
Research and document historical properties, landscapes, and structures.
Monitor funding sources and apply for grants for historic preservation projects.
Promote public education about historic preservation, including through lectures, tours, exhibits, and other activities.
Attend conferences and other meetings to remain current on best practices in historic preservation.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of architectural styles, construction techniques, and materials.
Knowledge of history and historic preservation principles and practices.
Understanding of local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and policies related to historic preservation.
Ability to identify and evaluate significant structures, sites, and districts.
Ability to evaluate applications for demolition, alteration, and restoration of historic properties.
Ability to interpret and apply local, state, and federal laws and regulations related to historic preservation.
Ability to provide expert advice on the preservation of historic resources.
Ability to effectively communicate with the public, local government officials, and other stakeholders.
Ability to work collaboratively with the public and other stakeholders.
Ability to analyze complex information related to historic preservation projects.

Historic preservation requires an understanding of the past and an appreciation of the present. A successful Historic Preservation Commissioner must have effective communication skills to be able to effectively explain the importance of preserving a historic site or structure. They must also have an understanding of the current trends in construction, technology, and design as well as an understanding of the local, state, and federal laws that protect historic sites.

they must have a desire to preserve the past while being conscious of future development. Having the ability to collaborate with stakeholders such as architects, developers, and community members is essential for a successful Historic Preservation Commissioner. By having these skills, a Historic Preservation Commissioner can ensure that the history of a site or structure is preserved while also promoting responsible development.

Historical Preservation Consultant, Historical Archivist, and Historic Preservation Technician are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What inspired you to pursue a career in historic preservation?
How have you helped to preserve historic sites in the past?
What challenges have you encountered in promoting historic preservation?
What strategies do you use to ensure that historic properties are preserved for future generations?
How do you evaluate whether a particular property should be designated as a historic site?
What initiatives have you taken to engage the public in historic preservation efforts?
How have you worked with local government to promote historic preservation?
How do you balance the need to protect the integrity of a historic site while also allowing for modern uses?
What techniques do you use to assess the condition of a historic property?
How do you determine the best method for preserving a particular historic artifact or structure?

Common Tools in Industry

Geographic Information Systems (GIS). A digital mapping technology used to visualize, analyze, and manage historical data. (e. g. ArcGIS)
Historic Property Database Software. Software designed to track and organize data related to historic sites and properties. (e. g. PastPerfect)
CAD Software. Computer-aided design software used to create detailed architectural drawings and plans. (e. g. AutoCAD)
Research Tools. Software and databases used to research information about historic properties, such as building materials and construction dates. (e. g. Library of Congress)
Digital Imaging Software. Software used to capture, edit, and store digital images of historic sites and artifacts. (e. g. Adobe Photoshop)
Document Management Software. Software used to store and organize documents related to historic preservation projects. (e. g. SharePoint)
Project Management Software. Software used to manage and track the progress of historic preservation projects. (e. g. Trello)
Social Media Software. Software used to promote and share information about historic preservation projects on social media networks. (e. g. Hootsuite)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Trust for Historic Preservation
American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works
Association for Preservation Technology International
Historic Preservation Education Foundation
National Conference of State Historic Preservation Officers
International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS)
Society of Architectural Historians
American Society of Landscape Architects
US Green Building Council
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation

We also have Cultural Resources Manager, History Conservator, and Genealogist jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Cultural Resources. Physical or intangible items that are of archaeological, architectural, historical, or cultural significance.
Preservation. The act or process of protecting and preserving something for future generations.
Archaeology. The scientific study of past human cultures and their artifacts.
Historic District. An area or neighborhood designated as historic by local, state, or federal government.
National Register of Historic Places. The national list of properties deemed to be historically significant by the US Department of the Interior.
Preservation Planning. The process by which a community decides which areas and buildings to preserve for future generations.
Adaptive Reuse. The alteration of a building or structure for a new purpose while maintaining its original features.
Cultural Landscape. A geographic area that reflects the values and practices of a specific culture or period.
Documentation. The recording of historical information about a site or object.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Historic Preservation Commissioner?

A Historic Preservation Commissioner is a local government official with the responsibility of protecting and preserving historic sites, buildings, and monuments within their jurisdiction.

What are the duties of a Historic Preservation Commissioner?

The duties of a Historic Preservation Commissioner include ensuring the preservation of historic buildings, monuments, artifacts, and landscapes, advising on development and zoning matters that could affect historic resources, researching and cataloging historic properties, and making recommendations to the local government on historic preservation matters.

What qualifications are required to be a Historic Preservation Commissioner?

In order to be a Historic Preservation Commissioner, one must typically have a degree in history, architecture, or related field, along with experience in heritage conservation and knowledge of local history.

How many Historic Preservation Commissioners are there in the United States?

There are approximately 3,500 Historic Preservation Commissioners in the United States.

What organizations can Historic Preservation Commissioners work with?

Historic Preservation Commissioners can work with a variety of organizations, such as government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private businesses. They may also consult with architects, engineers, historians, and other experts to ensure that historic resources are properly preserved.