ABOUT THE PRESERVATION SOCIETY OF CHARLESTON:
Founded in 1920, the Preservation Society of Charleston (PSC) is the oldest grassroots preservation organization in the nation. Our mission is to serve as a strong advocacy leader for citizens concerned about preserving Charleston’s distinctive character, quality of life, and diverse neighborhoods.
JOB SUMMARY:
The PSC is seeking a Preservation Specialist to join the PSC’s Department of Advocacy Initiatives as an integral team member. This position is intended to advance the organization’s roles in serving as a resource for technical preservation assistance, a partner in stewarding Charleston’s historic places, and a strong advocate in the public process.
Working in collaboration with other members of the advocacy team, the Preservation Specialist will support advocacy, education, and outreach on matters related to architectural review and zoning, administration of the PSC’s easement program, and advancement of key organizational initiatives.
The ideal candidate will be a self-starter that brings an enthusiasm for architecture historic preservation as a people-centered movement, and possesses a foundational knowledge of best preservation practices and the policies that guide growth of Charleston’s built environment. Additional core competencies required for this role include strong attention to detail and exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Reviews public meeting agendas and assists in the formulation of advocacy positions on matters related to architectural review and zoning (meeting with property owners, neighborhood representatives, municipal staff, and project professionals as needed);
- Represents PSC and delivers positions at public meetings;
- Conducts research and analysis of relevant planning documents, development proposals, and the history/evolution of properties;
- Creates and maintains database systems for tracking projects through the public process and PSC participation/impact;
- Fields department requests for technical preservation guidance;
- Administers the easement program in coordination with other department personnel, including maintenance of easement files, conducting annual easement inspections, corresponding with easement owners, and reviewing requests for alterations/repair of easement properties;
- Serves as point of contact for the Carolopolis Award program, including correspondence with property owners, project teams, and the Carolopolis Award Advisory Committee;
- Supports content development for advocacy related communications
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field (i.e. Architectural History, Historic Preservation, History, Urban/Community Planning);
- At least one year of experience working in a professional setting;
- Strong proficiency in persuasive written communication and public speaking with demonstrated ability to compose and deliver compelling, clear position statements in short-form comments and long-form narratives;
- Competence with national historic preservation best practices and legal framework, including the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties, the National Register of Historic Places, Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits, etc.;
- Knowledge of architectural styles, features, and descriptive terms, as well as historic building construction methods and materials;
- Demonstrated knowledge of local land-use policies and procedures, including zoning ordinances, historic district regulations, and the authority and function of various Boards and Commissions (additional training will be provided);
- Strong organization skills, as well as time and project management;
- Appreciation and passion for preserving Charleston’s unique sense of place and cultural heritage.
SALARY RANGE:
$50,000 to $60,000
BENEFITS:
15 days annual paid vacation leave
6 days annual paid sick leave
10 annual paid holidays
Company-matched retirement fund
Group health, vision, and dental insurance plans
Generous professional development opportunities
Parking
This position will remain open until filled.
Please submit a cover letter and resume with list of three professional references to our Director of Finance and Operations, Amanda Coté: acote@preservationsociety.org. Note that resumes sent without a cover letter will not be considered. No phone calls please.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION STATEMENT
Preservation Society of Charleston is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an equitable and inclusive environment for all employees. Applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.