Description

The City of Geneva is a vibrant community dedicated to maintaining the historical character and beauty that makes our City unique. We are currently seeking a detailed and progressive Preservation Planner to join our team in the Community Development Department at City Hall. This is a rare opportunity to make a meaningful impact in Geneva and contribute to its long-term sustainability and vitality.

Reporting to the Director of Community Development, this position conducts in-depth research and makes recommendations based on preservation principles along with City code and design standards.

Examples of Duties

Regular duties include but are not limited to:

• Serve as the staff liaison to the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC); prepare meeting documents, ensure timely review of HPC applications, offer leadership and guidance at meetings.
• Provide counsel and technical assistance to property owners; thoroughly review HPC applications for accuracy, assist with ordinance interpretation and code compliance standards, review style guidelines, provide architectural design guidance, offer resources and alternatives when warranted.
• Conduct historic site/structure surveys; update the City's architectural resources inventory and National Park Service certification.
• Conduct in-depth research and prepare reports to make recommendations to the historic preservation ordinance, landmark nominations, and special projects.
• Assist with site plan and development review; evaluate building permits, site plans and applications within historic districts.
• Conduct public information programs; prepare informational materials and oversee communications regarding historic preservation.
• Perform other work pertaining to community planning and zoning functions; collaborate with Community Development Department staff on projects, complaints or general occurrences relative to the historic district.
• Maintain up-to-date and relevant information for property owners and visitors on the City of Geneva's website.
• Provide exceptional customer service to residents, property owners, visitors and community partners.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Typical Qualifications

Ideal candidates will possess the following, or have a combination of education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Historic Preservation, Preservation Planning, Architectural History, Urban Planning, Land Use Planning, Architecture, or a related field;
• Two to four years of progressively responsible related experience; and
• A valid Driver's License is required.

Qualified candidates should have knowledge of historic preservation and urban planning principles, architectural terminology, and municipal authority pertaining to historic preservation regulations.

Supplemental Information

The City of Geneva is an excellent place to grow your career. Our organization's size offers the perfect opportunity to make contributions that will truly make an impact along with the chance to oversee unique projects as we look to the future of our community. If you are seeking a role where you can see the difference you make every day, can collaborate with a close-knit team, and enhance one of the Chicago suburbs most ideal communities, we would love to have you on board!

Interested candidates can read more about the role of preservation planning in maintaining over 180 years of rich history, culture and architecture in our City, as well as learn about the historic district and Historic Preservation Commission on our City's website.

The City also offers a generous benefit package which includes ample paid time off as well as competitive health insurance options and participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund program (IMRF). The starting rate of pay for this position is negotiable with a range of $82,798 - $111,778. The anticipated starting pay is up to $90,000 DOQ.