Historic Preservation Planner I (3 Positions) – May 20

Posted by City of Philadelphia on May 10, 2022

Did you recently graduate with a master’s degree in American studies, ethnic or identity studies, architecture, architectural history, city planning, history, historic preservation, public history, art history, urban affairs, public policy, urban planning, urban studies, or a closely related field? Great benefits and total rewards. Come join an inclusive workforce and make a difference in your community! Apply today!

This is planning and research work in the field of historic preservation. An employee in this class participates in design reviews of applications to the Philadelphia Historical Commission to alter, add to, and demolish historic buildings, structures, sites, and objects and the construction of new buildings in historic districts. Work includes historic site surveys, identifying cultural resources eligible for National and Philadelphia Registers, performing research, and preparing appropriate nomination forms. An employee in this class helps advise property owners and community leaders on historic preservation methods, techniques, and tax incentives. Work includes consulting with city agencies and others on compliance with federal, state and local legislation. Participating in education programs on historic preservation and the history of Philadelphia is a significant aspect of the work. Work is performed under the supervision of the Historic Preservation Director.

The Historical Commission protects the City’s historic resources. The Historic Preservation Planner I role supports the Historical Commission by researching and documenting historic buildings. Duties include reviewing building permit applications for compliance with preservation standards. Planners will also assist property owners by providing information about historic property maintenance.

The city of Philadelphia is rich in history and boasts the highest average number of building parcels per square mile. A lower-than-average percent of those parcels have historic designations.* The current designation process has left some of Philadelphia’s most valuable cultural resources unprotected, especially in Black and Brown communities. The recently launched Cultural Resources Survey Plan and Pilot Project is the Commission’s new effort to discover, document, and honor Philadelphia’s vibrant cultural history.

*Executive Summary: Key Recommendations of the Philadelphia Historic Preservation Task Force (March 2019)

The deadline for applications is May 20, 2022.

An optional online information session will be held on May 16, 2022, from 4 to 5 p.m.

Learn more and apply.