Common use of PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS STANDARDS Clause in Contracts

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS STANDARDS. A. The DOT&PF commits to employing professional staff meeting the Professional Qualifications Standards established by the Secretary of the Interior (48 FR 44738- 44739) in the SEO and the regional offices. The DOT&PF staff who possess professional qualifications are referred to in this Agreement as a professionally qualified individual (PQI). B. When the PQI responsible for the review of an undertaking requires cultural resource expertise outside of his/her area of specialty, the PQI will consult with another PQI having that area of expertise, or request the assistance of SHPO staff. C. In accordance with 36 CFR 800.2 (a)(3), Section 106 documentation may be prepared by a consultant (or a local agency professional) who meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications Standards (48 FR 44738-44739) in the appropriate field (Stipulation IX.A Documentation). Consultant responsibilities do not include formally approving Section 106 documents on behalf of the DOT&PF, making official agency findings, signing consultation letters, or otherwise functioning as an agency official for the purposes of Section 106. The consultant may seek technical assistance and guidance from the SHPO.