Building Program Specialist

State of Nebraska; Lincoln (NE); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

13 paid holidays

Vacation and sick leave from day one

State‑matched retirement plan

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

The Nebraska State Historical Society is seeking a Building Program Specialist to coordinate federal and state historic tax credits and related programs from Lincoln, NE. The role requires strong technical knowledge of preservation standards and the ability to work with applicants, architects, and agencies.

The position emphasizes planning, reviewing applications, and providing guidance while collaborating on statewide preservation goals and ongoing training for partners and communities.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of historic preservation principles and standards.
• Ability to read and interpret architectural plans and drawings.
• Excellent communication to present complex program information clearly.
• Organizational and time‑management skills.
• Familiarity with NRHP and preservation processes.

Responsibilities

• Work with applicants and architects to complete tax incentive applications.
• Verify properties as certified historic structures and answer program questions.
• Review and process applications for projects seeking federal/state tax credits.
• Examine plans for compliance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards.
• Provide technical assistance and periodic training for stakeholders.
• Develop educational and promotional materials and activities.
• Manage tax credit files and related information.
• Participate in statewide preservation planning and interdepartmental committees.

Skills

Historic preservation knowledge

Architectural plan reading

Communication skills

Time management

Analytical judgment

Education

Bachelor’s degree in architecture/construction management

Master’s degree (preferred)

Job description

Building Program Specialist (Open) – Nebraska State Historical Society – Lincoln, NE

The Nebraska State Historical Society (NSHS) seeks an organized and detail‑oriented individual to serve as the SHPO Historic Tax Incentive Coordinator. The role manages the Federal Historic Tax Credit, Nebraska Historic Tax Credit, and Valuation Incentive Program, reviews applications, provides technical assistance, and coordinates with National Park Services to maintain consistency between state and federal programs.

Responsibilities

• Work with applicants and architects/consultants to complete tax incentive application processes.
• Verify properties as certified historic structures and answer program questions.
• Review and process applications for commercial, residential, and other projects seeking federal and/or state historic rehabilitation tax credits.
• Examine plans, construction drawings, and related materials to ensure compliance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.
• Provide technical assistance and periodic training for constituents, developers, local governments, and the public.
• Assist in developing educational and promotional materials and activities.
• Manage tax credit files and related information for review and approval.
• Perform other duties as assigned, including contributions to the Comprehensive Statewide Historic Preservation Plan, participation in interdepartmental committees and working groups, and community outreach events.

Requirements/Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in architecture, construction management, or a related field (preferred).
• 2–5 years of experience working with technical building program elements.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license or reliable transportation for mandatory travel within the state.
• Regular and reliable attendance required.
• Master’s degree in architecture, architectural history, construction management, history, or a related field is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Knowledge of historic preservation principles, the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards, and the seven aspects of integrity.
• Ability to read and interpret architectural plans, specifications, proposed rehabilitation work, and building codes.
• Strong judgment and recommendation skills based on plan reviews, visual inspections, and dialogue.
• Excellent communication skills to present complex program information clearly to professionals, homeowners, architects, engineers, business owners, municipalities, and agency staff.
• Organizational and time‑management skills, with ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
• Familiarity with the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) and Historic Survey for eligibility assessments.
• Ability to work primarily in an office setting while conducting out‑of‑office site visits as required.
• Commitment to the organization’s core values of dignity, respect, ethical conduct, and customer focus.

Benefits

• 13 paid holidays
• Vacation and sick leave accruing from day one
• Military leave (156%)
• State‑matched retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement (budget dependent)
• Employee assistance program
• 79% employer‑paid health insurance plans
• Dental and vision insurance plans
• Employer‑paid $20,000 life insurance policy
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the federal government
• Career advancement opportunities within the largest and most diverse employment system in the state
• Training and development aligned with career aspirations
• Other benefits such as safe and secure work environment (included)

Equal Opportunity Statement

The State of Nebraska is an equal opportunity employer. We recruit, hire, train, and promote in all job classifications and at all levels without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or genetics.