Responsibilities of this role include reviewing, understanding, and interpreting a variety of technical data, such as architectural and engineering drawings and specifications. Additionally, the specialist must understand and consistently apply the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards of Rehabilitation. Other responsibilities include proficiency in digital photography, maintaining an organized existing filing system for photographs, and writing clear and concise review emails and letters.

The ideal candidate should possess extensive knowledge of various technical preservation issues, demonstrate proficiency in reading and comprehending technical specifications, architectural, and engineering drawings, and exhibit proficiency in researching innovative approaches to the preservation of historic properties. Good communication skills are essential–in writing, meetings, and public speaking, and to a variety of constituents, from architects and contractors to public officials, federal and state agencies and local governments, the MDAH Board of Trustees, historic property owners and managers, and the general public.