Preservation Planner Internship (Part-Time)

Organization:
City of Somerville – Historic Preservation Commission

Job Description:
The City of Somerville is seeking an intern to work for the City’s Historic Preservation Commission within the Planning Division of the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development. The intern will assist the Executive Director with a diversity of preservation planning projects, focusing on community outreach programs, grant-writing/administration, and directed research projects. The internship offers an enriching experience to acquire hands-on practical experience in a local planning office known for its innovative and resourceful spirit.

Projects likely to include:

Coordinate our annual Preservation Awards Program which involves the local high school, local businesses, and historic property owners; also this year help promote our new “Preserving Somerville” merchandise celebrating the program’s 20th anniversary;
Help plan, publicize, and execute City-wide historic re-enactment events, such as a Colonial Fair for Patriot’s Day in mid-April;
Assist with grant writing and administration of current grants for historic municipal sites;
Implement Phase 2 of our Historic Plaque Program for designated historic property owners;
Help execute a variety of historic outreach activities for Somerville’s annual May Preservation Month this spring, in collaboration with other local organizations, including the Somerville Museum, Bike Committee, Historic Somerville, and two Main Street Programs;
Research and organize walking tours in different Somerville neighborhoods, especially one targeted to youth or seniors, using existing or new material;
Create a system for distributing a Homeowners Welcome package to new owners; and
Maintain our growing Face Book page and enhance the Commission’s website, with additional material and photographs, to continue updating and widening its outreach.

The City of Somerville is a dynamic, progressive and exciting place to work, with ambitious goals, a very talented workforce, and strong community spirit. It was recognized as a “All America City” both in 2009 and again in 2015, and adopted the Community Preservation Act (CPA) with the widest community support in the Commonwealth. Its Preservation Commission has earned Statewide distinction for its pioneering single-building local historic districts, unique collaboration with the local high school for a Preservation Awards Program, and an award-winning renovation project at Nathan Tufts Park. For more information about the City of Somerville and the Commission visit www.somervillema.gov/historicpreservation
Due to the City’s current budget constraints, the internship is presently unpaid, but offers an enriching experience to acquire hands-on, practical experience in a local planning office known for its innovative and resourceful spirit. Academic credit can be offered. The hours are flexible, but the ideal candidate will work a minimum of 15 hours per week over an extended period of months, beginning immediately, and ideally through the spring and summer of 2016, with possible funding. Applicants must be highly motivated, detail-oriented, and have excellent communication skills.

Job Description Link:

http://www.somervillema.gov/hpcintern

To Apply:
A resume with a letter of interest, indicating particular relevant experience or education, should be sent to: Ms. J. Brandon Wilson, Executive Director, SHPC, City Hall, 93 Highland Avenue,
Somerville, MA 02143, or via bwilson@somervillema.gov

Contact Name:
Brandon Wilson

Contact Email:
bwilson@somervillema.gov