Job Title: State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO)
Department/Agency: American Samoa Historic Preservation Office (ASHPO)
Closing Date: December 13, 2024
Type of Position: Political Appointee
Posting Type: Employment Opportunity/Open to the Public
Pay Grade and Salary Range: GS-18/$65,000 - $80,000 p.a.
Email Your Resume, Cover Letter and References to: OfficeGovElectASG@gmail.com
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Submit a Cover Letter and Headshot - Include a personalized cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications for the role. Be sure to include a recent headshot photo.
Provide Professional References - Send a list of at least three professional references. Include their names, phone numbers, and email addresses. You are welcome to include letters of reference if available.
General Description
The State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) is responsible for leading and managing the American Samoa Historic Preservation Office (ASHPO), ensuring the protection, preservation, and promotion of the territory’s cultural, archaeological, and historical resources. The SHPO works closely with local, territorial, and federal entities, non-governmental organizations, and the public to safeguard American Samoa’s unique heritage. This leadership role includes the development and implementation of preservation programs, the coordination of historic site surveys, the nomination of properties to the National Register of Historic Places, and the consultation with governmental and community stakeholders. The SHPO reports directly to the Governor and provides expertise on matters related to historic preservation policy and the management of American Samoa's historic resources.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Leadership and Office Management
Provide overall strategic direction and leadership to the ASHPO, setting clear goals, objectives, and priorities in line with national and local preservation policies.
Direct, supervise, and evaluate ASHPO staff, ensuring that team members are well-trained, motivated, and engaged in fulfilling the office's goals.
Manage daily operations of the office, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and preservation regulations.
Oversee the preparation of the annual budget and monitor expenditures to ensure that financial resources are allocated effectively to fulfill ASHPO’s mandates.
Program Development, Implementation, and Oversight
Lead the identification, evaluation, registration, and protection of historic, archaeological, and cultural sites within American Samoa.
Administer the National Register of Historic Places program by ensuring the nomination and management of eligible historic sites and properties.
Oversee the development and implementation of preservation programs, including preservation planning, education, outreach, and public engagement efforts to raise awareness of the importance of preserving American Samoa’s heritage.
Supervise the preservation and restoration of significant historic properties and cultural sites, ensuring compliance with federal and territorial standards.
Compliance, Advocacy, and Consultation
Serve as the principal advisor to the Governor and other territorial agencies on historic preservation matters and regulatory compliance.
Ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations, including the National Historic Preservation Act, and local preservation statutes and policies.
Consult with federal and territorial agencies, tribal organizations, and other stakeholders on projects that may impact historic properties, providing guidance on how to mitigate or avoid adverse effects.
Advocate for the protection and funding of historic preservation projects, ensuring that heritage preservation is integrated into broader governmental and community planning efforts.
Stakeholder Engagement and Public Relations
Represent ASHPO in meetings with government leaders, non-profit organizations, community groups, and external agencies.
Develop and maintain relationships with local, national, and international preservation organizations and experts.
Lead public outreach programs, including educational workshops, conferences, and heritage tours, to foster community involvement in preservation initiatives.
Develop and distribute informative materials, such as reports, brochures, and publications, to raise public awareness of preservation activities and the significance of American Samoa’s historic and cultural resources.
Serve as the official spokesperson for the SHPO, advocating for preservation initiatives and ensuring transparent communication between the public and government bodies.
Grant Management and Resource Development
Oversee the development and management of grant programs to support preservation efforts, including identifying and securing funding opportunities from local, federal, and private sources.
Review and approve grant applications for preservation projects and ensure proper monitoring of disbursements.
Ensure proper stewardship of resources allocated to the preservation of historic properties and cultural resources.
Reporting, Evaluation, and Long-Term Planning
Provide regular reports on preservation program progress to the Governor, key stakeholders, and the public, including recommendations for future action and the identification of challenges and opportunities.
Conduct comprehensive evaluations of ASHPO programs and activities, recommending improvements and ensuring that the office’s goals are being met effectively.
Develop long-term preservation plans that outline the strategic direction for protecting American Samoa’s cultural and historical heritage.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Extensive knowledge of the National Historic Preservation Act, the American Samoa Preservation Law, and other federal, territorial, and international preservation regulations.
Comprehensive understanding of archaeological methods, architectural history, and cultural resource management.
Knowledge of project management principles, including budgeting, scheduling, and resource allocation.
Familiarity with geographic information systems (GIS) and cultural resource management tools for mapping and tracking preservation sites.
Proven leadership skills, including the ability to effectively manage staff, lead teams, and make decisions in a dynamic work environment.
Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to represent HPO at all levels of government and with community and external stakeholders.
Advanced problem-solving abilities, particularly in navigating complex preservation and regulatory issues.
Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and ensure timely completion.
Ability to interpret and apply preservation laws and regulations at the local, national, and international levels.
Ability to engage and communicate effectively with diverse communities, organizations, and governmental agencies.
Capability to handle sensitive cultural and political matters with tact and diplomacy.
Ability to think strategically and implement long-term preservation goals that align with American Samoa's cultural, social, and economic objectives.
Academic and Experience Requirements
Education:
A Bachelor's degree in Historic Preservation, Anthropology, Archaeology, History, Architecture, or a related field is required.
A Master’s degree in a relevant field is strongly preferred.
Experience:
At least 7 years of professional experience in historic preservation, cultural resource management, or a related field.
A minimum of 3 years of experience in a senior leadership or managerial role, preferably within a governmental or non-profit organization.
Experience working with federal and territorial laws and regulations related to historic preservation, including regulatory compliance and environmental review processes.
Proven experience in managing grant programs and coordinating preservation projects.
Experience in public relations, educational outreach, and community engagement is highly desirable.
Salary
The salary is competitive and based on experience and qualifications. Specific compensation details will be provided upon request.
Additional Information
For questions regarding the position or application process, please contact the Office of the Governor-Elect directly via email at officegovelectASG@gmail.com
*The American Samoa Government is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates will be considered for political appointments without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal and territorial laws. Appointments will be made based on qualifications, experience, and the ability to serve effectively in alignment with the policies and goals of the administration.
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