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

Jul 3, 2022 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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FAQ

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The lack of historic preservation planning can lead to a number of negative consequences, such as the loss of historic sites, the deterioration of cultural heritage, and an overall decrease in the quality of life in a community. Without a plan in place, historic resources may be at risk of demolition, neglect, or even vandalism. Furthermore, without a plan to protect them, historic sites may be unable to contribute to the economic development of a community.

Finally, without proper preservation, the unique identity and history of a place can be lost forever. Historic preservation planners are essential in preserving these important sites and helping preserve a community's heritage and identity. They can work with government entities, private developers, and local stakeholders to create plans that protect and promote the preservation of historic sites and resources.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelor's Degree. The first step to becoming a Historic Preservation Planner is to obtain a bachelor's degree in a related field such as history, architecture, urban planning, or historic preservation.
Obtain Work Experience. Many employers require Historic Preservation Planners to have a minimum of two years of experience in the field. Gaining related experience through internships or volunteering can be a great way to gain the necessary experience.
Get Certified. Obtaining certification through the National Trust for Historic Preservation can help you stand out in the job market and make you more attractive to employers. Certification requires passing a written examination, completing a project, and attending continuing education courses.
Network. Establishing contacts with professionals in the field is an important part of becoming a successful Historic Preservation Planner. Attend professional conferences, join organizations related to the field, and make connections on social media to expand your network.
Stay Informed. It is important to stay up to date on the latest trends and developments in the field of historic preservation. Read books and articles, attend conferences and seminars, and follow industry news to stay informed.

Historic preservation planners must have a reliable and capable set of skills in order to be successful. They must have the ability to understand and interpret historic documents, such as maps and drawings. They must also possess a deep knowledge of the history of the area they are working in, as well as the laws, regulations, and procedures that govern historic preservation.

Furthermore, they must be able to work with various stakeholders to build consensus on the best approach for preserving historic sites. Finally, they must be able to communicate effectively with the public and various governmental entities in order to ensure that the historic preservation goals are realized. All of these skills combined will enable the historic preservation planner to create successful preservation plans that benefit both the community and the environment.

You may want to check Historic Preservation Advocate, Historical Preservation Consultant, and Historical Writer for alternative.

Job Description

Research and analyze historic sites, structures, and objects to determine their significance.
Develop preservation plans and assist in the management of historic properties.
Prepare National Register of Historic Places nominations, reports, and other documents as needed.
Provide expertise on conservation and preservation techniques for historic resources.
Coordinate with other agencies, organizations, and/or local governments to develop preservation policies and regulations.
Advise stakeholders on the best methods for preserving historic resources.
Establish and maintain relationships with local stakeholders, including landowners and community members.
Develop public interpretation materials for historic sites and properties.
Educate the public about the value of preserving historical resources.
Monitor construction activities for potential impacts on historic resources.
Assist with grant writing or other fundraising activities to support historic preservation projects.
Represent the organization at conferences, meetings, workshops, and other events related to historic preservation.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of historic preservation principles and practices.
Understanding of local, state and federal historic preservation laws, regulations and guidelines.
Ability to interpret historic research for planning purposes.
Ability to work with the public, community groups, and other stakeholders in the planning process.
Ability to identify and evaluate potential resources for preservation and rehabilitation.
Knowledge of cultural resources survey methods and techniques.
Knowledge of design and construction principles related to historic preservation projects.
Ability to develop plans, strategies, and proposals related to historic preservation efforts.
Knowledge of funding sources and grant writing practices for preservation projects.
Knowledge of historical and archaeological research methods and techniques.
Ability to review design and construction documents for compliance with preservation standards.
Ability to document, preserve and maintain historic sites, structures, and artifacts.
Problem-solving skills related to historic resource management and protection.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.

For a Historic Preservation Planner to be successful, they must have a wide range of skills and knowledge. These include an understanding of history and the ability to research and analyze data, a comprehensive knowledge of the laws, regulations, and guidelines in the field, an understanding of the principles of urban planning and development, and excellent communication skills. they must be able to effectively collaborate with other professionals, such as architects, engineers, and contractors.

With these skills, a Historic Preservation Planner can work to ensure that sites and structures of historical significance are preserved, restored, and maintained for future generations. The result is that communities are able to retain their historic character and identity, and the environment can be protected from damage due to development.

Public Historian, Historical Preservation Lawyer, and Archival Digitization Specialist are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in historic preservation planning?
Describe a successful historic preservation project you have managed.
How do you develop relationships with local and state government stakeholders in the historic preservation planning process?
What steps do you take to ensure accurate data collection and analysis in historic preservation planning?
What strategies do you use to ensure community engagement in the historic preservation planning process?
How do you ensure that any proposed changes to a historic building or site are in keeping with the spirit and intent of the original building or site design?
What challenges have you faced when developing a historic preservation plan, and how did you overcome them?
How do you stay up to date on changes in legislation and policy related to historic preservation planning?
How do you ensure that a proposed preservation plan meets all relevant federal, state, and local regulations and codes?
What strategies do you use to identify, research, and document historic sites and buildings?

Common Tools in Industry

GIS Software. A geographic information system that allows users to analyze, visualize, and store spatial data. (e. g. ArcGIS)
Database Software. A system used to store and organize large amounts of data. (e. g. Microsoft Access)
CAD Software. Computer-aided design software used to create 2D and 3D designs of buildings and objects. (e. g. AutoCAD)
Project Management Software. Software used to plan and manage projects, including tasks, resources, timelines, and budgets. (e. g. Microsoft Project)
Historical Research Software. Software used to research and document historic sites and events. (e. g. Ancestry. com)
Image Editing Software. Software used to edit digital images for various purposes including presentation and preservation. (e. g. Adobe Photoshop)
Document Management Software. Software used to store, manage, and track documents and files in a secure system. (e. g. SharePoint)
Survey Software. Software used to create and administer surveys to collect data from a variety of sources. (e. g. Survey Monkey)
Social Media Platforms. Platforms used to connect and share information with a wide audience in an efficient manner. (e. g. Twitter)
Visual Presentation Software. Software used to create visuals like charts, diagrams, and graphs to display data or information in a visually appealing way. (e. g. Microsoft PowerPoint)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Trust for Historic Preservation
Association for Preservation Technology International
National Conference of State Historic Preservation Officers
National Alliance of Preservation Commissions
American Planning Association
Society of Architectural Historians
American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works
Historic Preservation Education Foundation
National Center for Preservation Technology and Training
National Park Service

We also have Historical Archivist, Genealogist, and Archival Technician jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Cultural Heritage. Refers to the tangible and intangible aspects of a communitys history, customs, beliefs, and lifestyles which are passed down from one generation to the next.
Preservation Planning. The process of developing strategies and policies to protect, conserve, and manage historic resources.
Historic Preservation. The practice of protecting and preserving historic buildings, sites, districts, and landscapes.
Landmark. A building, site, or object that has been declared to have historical significance.
Adaptive Reuse. The process of converting an existing structure for use in a new way while preserving its historical character.
Cultural Landscape. Refers to the interaction of physical features in a particular region with human activity over time and how this interaction has shaped the areas cultural identity.
National Register of Historic Places. A listing of properties that have been deemed to be of national significance by the U. S. Department of the Interior.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Historic Preservation Planner?

A Historic Preservation Planner is a professional who specializes in the protection and preservation of historic buildings, sites, and landscapes.

What qualifications are required to become a Historic Preservation Planner?

Historic Preservation Planners typically need a master's degree in historic preservation, architecture, urban planning, or a related field. They may also need to be certified by the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works (AIC).

What are the responsibilities of a Historic Preservation Planner?

The primary responsibilities of a Historic Preservation Planner include researching and documenting historic sites, developing preservation plans, creating educational materials, and advocating for the protection of historic resources.

What type of organizations hire Historic Preservation Planners?

Historic Preservation Planners are employed by public agencies, non-profit organizations, and private firms. These organizations may range from local government agencies to national parks.

What type of salary can a Historic Preservation Planner expect to earn?

The salary of a Historic Preservation Planner will depend on their experience level, qualifications, and the employer. The median annual wage for Historic Preservation Planners as of 2019 was $60,400 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.