Environmental Specialist (SHPO)

Office of Disaster Recovery; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Virgin Islands State Historic Preservation Office (VISHPO) seeks an Environmental Specialist to provide technical historic preservation review and project support for disaster-related recovery and infrastructure initiatives. The role involves interdisciplinary collaboration under the DPNR and requires handling complex preservation determinations and environmental reviews.

The position emphasizes strict adherence to preservation standards, coordination with federal and territorial partners, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in historic preservation, architectural history, history, architecture, historic architecture, cultural resource management, or closely related field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conducts research, site evaluations, records reviews, and documentation to support historic preservation determinations.
• Reviews HEAFs, environmental review documentation, project applications, construction plans, site plans and related submissions.
• Researches project areas using VISHPO records, National Register documentation, historical maps, GIS and other resources.
• Prepares project review findings and supporting documentation for review by the Director and Deputy SHPO.
• Assists in reviews related to disaster recovery Section 106 consultations and environmental review compliance.
• Coordinates with federal/territorial agencies, consultants, engineers, archaeologists, contractors, and applicants for timely project reviews.
• Provides technical assistance on preservation review requirements and mitigation measures.
• Maintains accurate records of reviews, determinations, correspondence, and documentation.
• Develops informational materials and presentations on preservation compliance and rehabilitation of historic properties.
• Participates in public meetings to promote awareness of historic preservation and heritage sites.

Skills

Technical writing

Report writing

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Outlook

HEAFs & environmental reviews

Project management

Communication

EPA laws knowledge

Driver’s License (VI)

Education

Bachelor’s degree in historic preservation or related field

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Outlook

GIS

Job description

The Environmental Specialist (SHPO) is responsible for providing technical historic preservation review and project support services to the Virgin Islands State Historic Preservation Office (VISHPO), an office of the Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR). The incumbent supports federally and locally funded disaster-related recovery, mitigation, infrastructure, housing, and other development projects associated with the Historic Preservation Office. The specialist will work closely with an interdisciplinary team, under the supervision of the Department of Planning and Natural Resources.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Conducts research, site evaluations, records reviews, and documentation necessary to support historic preservation determinations
• Reviews Historic Environmental Assessment Forms (HEAFs), environmental review documentation, project applications, construction plans, site plans, and related submissions received by the Virgin Islands State Historic Preservation Office
• Researches project areas utilizing VISHPO records, National Register documentation, historical maps, aerial imagery, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), survey data, and other available resources
• Prepares project review findings, recommendations, correspondence, and supporting documentation for review and approval by the Director and Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer
• Assists in carrying out reviews associated with disaster recovery Section 106 consultations, environmental review compliance, disaster recovery initiatives, and federally assisted disaster recovery undertakings that require historic preservation review
• Coordinates with federal and territorial agencies, consultants, engineers, architects, archaeologists, contractors, and applicants to obtain information necessary for timely and accurate project reviews.
• Provides technical assistance regarding historic preservation review requirements, project consultation procedures, and measures to avoid, minimize, or mitigate adverse impacts to historic properties
• Maintains accurate records of project reviews, determinations, correspondence, and supporting documentation
• Assists in developing informational materials, guidance documents, presentations, and educational resources related to historic preservation compliance, rehabilitation of historic properties, and protection of archaeological resources
• Participates in public meetings and promotes public awareness of the importance of preserving the Virgin Islands’ historic buildings, archaeological resources, cultural landscapes, and heritage sites
• Coordinates with the Office of the Lieutenant Governor Geographic Information Systems Division and other agencies to improve mapping, documentation, and spatial data relating to historic and archaeological resources involved in disaster recovery projects.
• Adheres to Government of the Virgin Islands safety policies and procedures and reports unsafe conditions to the appropriate supervisor
• May testify in investigative/court hearings relative to environmental violations.
• Maintains professional standards of conduct and confidentiality in the performance of assigned duties.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in historic preservation, architectural history, history, architecture, historic architecture, cultural resource management, or a closely related field preferred.

B. Level of experience in a related field:

• Three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in historic preservation, architectural history, archaeology, cultural resource management, environmental review, historic property survey, Section 106 compliance, or a closely related field. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Proficient in technical writing, presentation development, and research.
• Strong report writing, editing, and proofreading skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Experience with Historic Environmental Assessment Forms (HEAFs), environmental review documentation, and project applications.
• Experience in managing projects and teams.
• Ability to handle multiple and changing projects in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• Ability to perform duties with limited supervision.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to present conclusions effectively to stakeholders.
• Maintain confidentiality in all assignments.
• Ability to work harmoniously with others and contribute to a team-oriented environment.
• Ability to multi-task and remain flexible under pressure.
• Understanding of natural science principles related to environmental control.
• Familiarity with current environmental control techniques, terminology, and laws.
• Competence in performing statistical computations and analyzing environmental issues.
• Ability to work under close supervision, with tasks reviewed for adherence to program objectives.
• Knowledge of and adherence to Federal and local EPA laws, rules, and regulations.
• Primarily involves administrative and public interaction.
• Valid VI Driver’s License required.