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JOB OBJECTIVE: Perform complex architectural project review and technical assistance to preserve and protect Texas’ diverse architectural heritage. As part of a five-member team in the Division of Architecture (DOA), review changes to state landmarks and other protected properties, administer state and federal grants, and serve as the first line of communication on preservation practices to the general public, property owners, architects, consultants, contractors, and government agencies. Work under general supervision, with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

1. Provide written and verbal technical assistance on preservation, rehabilitation, and restoration of historic properties in keeping with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.
2. Review projects pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (54 USC §306108 and 36 CFR Part 800), specifically, the effect of proposed federal undertakings on identified historic properties.
3. Review proposed architectural and other above-grade work on State Antiquities Landmarks (Antiquities Code of Texas, Texas Natural Resources Code, Chapter 191) and Recorded Texas Historic Landmarks (Texas Government Code, Chapter 442, Section 442.006 (f)).
4. Review proposed changes to properties protected by preservation covenants and easements created pursuant to grants through the Texas Preservation Trust Fund, Certified Local Government, and other federal grant programs or related to the disposal of federal historic properties. Assemble and review documentation during the establishment of new easements and covenants and monitor existing easements and covenants.
5. Administer Texas Preservation Trust Fund grants, including planning and construction observation with a variety of non-profit organizations, governmental entities, and individuals.
6. Advise building owners and architects regarding application of the Americans with Disabilities Act and Texas Accessibility Standards in historic buildings.
7. Work collaboratively with THC’s History Programs Division, Archeology Division, and the Community Heritage Development Division, as well as other DOA programs including the Historic Tax Credit Program, the Courthouse Preservation Program, and the Disaster Assistance Program.
8. Perform on-site consultation with the public, architectural consultants, and government officials regarding appropriate preservation techniques.
9. Participate in conferences and workshops and speak to communities and professional groups about the Texas Historical Commission’s programs to encourage participation.
10. Serve as a liaison to other THC staff, government agencies, community organizations, and the general public to explain and provide technical assistance on program specifics and requirements.
11. Develop and review agreement documents.
12. Assist in the collection, organization, analysis, and/or preparation of materials in response to requests for program and project-specific information and reports.
13. Assist in developing and updating agency website, submitting social media content, and writing agency or outside publications.
14. Adhere to established work schedule with regular attendance.
15. Follow all THC safety guidelines/procedures and ethics requirements.

NON-ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

16. Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS (The application must specifically state how each of the following qualifications are met):

• Master’s degree in historic preservation, architecture, architectural history, or a closely related field; or a professional architecture degree (Bachelor or Master of Architecture) from a National Architectural Accreditation Board (NAAB) accredited college or university (or a comparable internationally- accredited professional architecture degree) with coursework in historic preservation;
• Minimum two years of professional work experience on historic preservation projects in the private or public sector, for a preservation non-profit organization or for a university program;
• Meet the Secretary of the Interior’s Historic Preservation Professional Qualifications Standards in History, Architectural History, or Historic Architecture;
• Experience with architectural procedures, including in-depth application of the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties;
• Experience working directly with architects and/or property owners to develop treatment recommendations, monitor activities and execute historic preservation projects;
• Demonstrated public speaking and writing skills;
• Valid driver’s license, acceptable driving record and ability to drive a state vehicle; and
• Ability to travel up to the required 20% of the work period.

PREFER:

• Experience providing and preparing technical information, architectural plans, specifications, and/or reports for historic preservation projects;
• Regulatory project review experience related to the National Historic Preservation Act, applicable state laws or local preservation ordinances; and
• Experience utilizing geographic information systems (GIS).

About Texas Historical Commission

The Texas Historical Commission (THC) is the state agency for historic preservation. We save the real places that tell the real stories of Texas.Our staff consults with citizens and organizations to preserve Texas history through its architectural, archeological, and cultural landmarks. The agency is recognized nationally for its preservation programs.The commission is composed of nine citizen members appointed by the governor to staggered six-year terms. Agency employees work in various fields, including archeology, architecture, history, economic development, heritage tourism, public administration, and urban planning.The Texas State Legislature established the agency in 1953 as the Texas State Historical Survey Committee with the task to identify important historic sites across the state. The Texas Legislature changed the agency's name to the Texas Historical Commission in 1973. Along with the name change came more protective powers, an expanded leadership role, and broader educational responsibilities.

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