Historic Zoning & Preservation Lead

Metropolitan Government of Nashville & Davidson County

Nashville (TN)

On-site

USD 90,000 - 135,000

Full time

11 days ago

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Job summary

The Metropolitan Government of Nashville & Davidson County seeks an Historic Zoning Administrator to lead the Historic Zoning Division in guiding Nashville's preservation ordinance enforcement and design guidelines. You will oversee staff, coordinate with the Historic Zoning Commission and partners, prepare materials, and ensure rigorous application of preservation standards while serving property owners, developers, and the community.

This is a full-time on-site role based in Nashville, TN.

Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree in historic preservation, architectural history, architecture, urban planning, public administration, or a related field, preferably with postgraduate training focused on planning and land use, and five (5) years of experience working in historic zoning or a related field.
No Substitutions
Candidates with accreditations earned in a foreign institute are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

Oversee the administration and enforcement of local historic zoning ordinances and design guidelines, ensuring consistent and accurate application across all cases.
Manage, mentor, and evaluate staff who support historic zoning functions, ensuring high-quality professional work in serving both the Commission and the community.
Provide direction and oversight for staff case reviews, research, community engagement, and preparation of Commission materials.
Lead and coordinate the review process for Preservation Permits, including working with applicants, reviewing plans, and preparing or approving staff recommendations.
Serve as the primary liaison to the Historic Zoning Commission, preparing agendas, reports, and meeting materials, and ensuring staff alignment with Commission expectations.
Lead or support updates to design guidelines and documents related to historic zoning.
Conduct and oversee research on historic properties, architectural styles, and preservation best practices to support Commission and staff decision-making.
Coordinate with permitting and Development Services departments to ensure consistent application of regulations.
Work with staff of the Metropolitan Historical Commission to promote alignment on operational and program-level matters.
Monitor compliance with approved Preservation Permits and guide staff in follow-up actions on potential violations.
Maintain accurate records of cases, decisions, and historic resource data.
Serve as a primary resource for property owners, applicants, community members, partner agencies, and elected officials, supporting preservation through technical expertise and responsive customer service.