City of Tampa

This is responsible work reviewing architectural and site plans for compliance with historic district guidelines, conducting research on historic sites and structures, and assisting in coordinating various programs related to historic preservation.  Bargaining unit position.

An employee in this class performs tasks of more than average difficulty assisting in reviewing architectural and site plans submitted by developers, architects, engineers, and others to determine if the plans comply with guidelines and other local codes adopted by the City to preserve the historic fabric of its historic districts. Work requires the exercise of reasonable initiative and independent judgment in researching and developing an inventory of, or identifying the significance of, historic sites in the City and assisting in coordinating designated historic preservation programs. Working under general supervision the employee maintains a tracking system of alterations, restorations, relocations, and demolitions of historic properties. Work is reviewed through conferences, reports submitted, and results obtained.

Reviews application and approval process for applicants; provides necessary assistance with forms and applications; reviews architectural and site plans for compliance with guidelines for designated historic districts of the City; approves plans for re-roofing, window and door replacement, driveways, patio repairs, and other alterations and renovations within scope of authority; refers other more complex plans to a senior staff member for review and action.

Establishes and maintains tracking system of alterations, restorations, relocations, and demolitions as they occur within each historic district; updates and maintains historic district maps; visits sites, locates and delineates same on maps, charts, and plots; maintains and updates an inventory of structures within historic districts; updates and maintains historic preservation web site for agendas, public hearings, fee schedules, upcoming events, etc.

Accumulates historical data on structures and properties in designated historic districts; researches newspapers, library materials, old maps, books and photos, old city files, deeds, etc. to establish historical significance; conducts field site visits of structures to detail architectural style, determine modes of construction and identify materials used; takes photos and records field notes; conducts title searches to determine present and past owners of given sites, districts, buildings, structures, and objects; conducts surveys to locate and determine the historic significance of buildings and structures potentially affected by highway projects.

Assists in the administration of historic preservation programs such as the ad valorem tax exemption program and encroachment sign program; meets with property owners and others to outline program requirements; ensures that property owners execute protective covenants for continuing property maintenance and hold harmless covenants for sign encroachment program; coordinates flow of exemption program with construction services center, city legal, county tax assessor and other parties; records covenants with Clerk of Circuit Court.

Coordinates tours and mobile workshops for historic preservation commissions, neighborhood groups, other cities agencies, etc.; prepares full package of materials for workshops; prepares reports; promotes a cooperative spirit between local neighborhood groups and organizations in the interest of the historic preservation movement.

Performs related work as required.

Considerable knowledge of: modern office practices, procedures and equipment.

Working knowledge of: research techniques and methodologies; survey research methods; report writing techniques.

Some knowledge of: historic preservation and restoration techniques; design and research procedures of historic sites and buildings.

Ability to: read and interpret codes and requirements relating to historic preservation and explain them tactfully and impartially to others; conduct literature and title searches of historic sites; probe and obtain critical facts; present information in an organized manner; conduct research and analyze data; organize and maintain historical data; communicate effectively; analyze legal documents to determine historical data; plan, organize and coordinate work assignments; establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, officials and the general public; operate a lightweight motor vehicle.

Graduation from an accredited high school and three (3) years of experience in activities related to the issuance of regulatory permits, building construction, architectural design, research techniques and methodologies, survey research methods or related areas; or graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in history, historical architecture, anthropology, archaeology or library science and six (6) months experience in survey or research related activities; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

Possession of a valid Florida drivers license.

Employees may be required to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays and overtime as needed. During periods when the Mayor issues an emergency declaration for the City of Tampa, all employees may be required to work in preparation, response or recovery activities related to the stated emergency.