The Historic Preservationist 1 - Archaeology position will coordinate historical site development and restoration projects of Metro-owned properties, especially those with archaeological significance. This position will also manage Metro’s inventory of archaeological resources and historic cemeteries, and oversee the department’s review of Section 106 related projects. Perform related duties as required.
The Metro Historical Commission (MHC) is actively involved in the discovery, documentation, and preservation of archaeological resources in Davidson County. As required through federal, state, or local laws and regulations, certain construction projects are reviewed to assess potential impacts to archaeological sites. These reviews facilitate the development of each respective project while also helping to preserve the diverse cultural fabric of Nashville. We have approximately 10,000 properties (31 districts and 62 individual properties) under one of 5 different types of historic overlays. We average about 600 permits a year with 73% of those being issued administratively. Seventy-three percent of our applications are new construction (infill, additions, outbuildings), 3% are roof repairs, 9% are general alterations, 4% are signage and 11% are demolition (in whole and in part/ contributing and non-contributing.) We average about 10 economic hardship inquiries a year with less than half of those ending up being formal applications that go to the Commission. Most of our current historic building stock is 1890s to 1960s.
Typical Duties
Inventory, evaluate, and advise on heritage and cultural resource management, including determination of effects of projects on cultural resources and recommended mitigation.
Prepare and/or review the appropriate documentation related to historic resources as required by State and Federal laws and regulations.
Conduct background and archival research from a wide array of sources (e.g., published and unpublished local histories, legal documents, construction and ROW plans, historic maps, aerial photography, old photographs, old newspapers, oral histories, etc.) to evaluate project locations and archaeological resources.
Provide technical assistance and direction regarding archaeological resources in terms of permitting, and mitigation and monitoring for pre-construction and construction activities on assigned projects.
Utilize a variety of Geographic Information System (GIS) software and satellite imagery to develop and analyze project data.
Answer public phone, email and in-person inquiries regarding archaeology, artifacts, history, and historic preservation.
Participate in project related meetings and/or field visits.
Plan and implement projects, exhibits, studies, and workshops.
Conduct archaeological surveys, field inspections, and investigate vandalism of cultural resources.
Enforce historic preservation and zoning regulations including; inspecting buildings and landmarks to establish their authenticity as historical sites and/or for compliance with preservation and zoning regulations.
Review specifications and issue approvals for exterior work proposed in historically zoned Districts; surveying potential historic sites and/or districts and make recommendations for preservation.
Provide assistance to property owners, architects, contractors, and government agencies.
Assess the impact of projects on the surrounding area; study proposals and evaluate impact they may have on historical properties and districts.
Prepare and explain guidelines for historical districts; drawing architectural illustrations and specifications for projects.
Review and write specifications for projects.
Coordinate and attend meetings and/or projects with the public, staff and other agencies.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Architecture or a Historic Preservation field of study from an accredited college or university and three (3) years of experience in architecture or historic preservation.
OR
Masters degree in Architecture or a Historic Preservation field from an accredited college or university and one (1) year of experience in architecture or historic preservation.
LICENSES REQUIRED
Valid Driver License
Candidates with accreditations earned in a foreign institute are encouraged to apply.
Note: Per Metro Ordinance No. SO94-1078. All employees of the Metropolitan Government shall be residents of the State of Tennessee or become residents of the state within six (6) months of employment as a prerequisite to employment with the Metropolitan Government.
Preferred Experience, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Degrees in Archaeology, Anthropology, or closely related field
Knowledge of the identification, evaluation, and management of archaeological resources to include demonstrated archaeological fieldwork consisting of survey, testing, and/or excavation procedures to include laboratory analysis experience.
Familiar with related legislation such as the National Historic Preservation Act, and Section 4(f) of the US DOT Act and competency in comprehending laws, policies, rules, and regulations related to archaeological resources.
Skill in reading and understanding plans, maps and aerial photographs; skill using GIS software
Experience writing detailed investigative reports and articles for publication.
Knowledge of Section 106 consultation process.
Knowledge of the criteria for determining cultural resources that are National Register eligible.
Advanced analytical skills used to coordinate archaeological mitigation measures for the preservation of cultural resources through avoidance or recovery of significant archaeological materials.
Skill in analyzing technical reports for accurate information regarding cultural resources, legal descriptions, and land ownership.
We are an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at all levels. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply.
Requests for ADA accommodation for the recruitment process should be directed to Human Resources at 615-862-6640.