Job Listing: Architectural Preservation and Research Assistant (Colonial Williamsburg Foundation)

Architectural Preservation and Research Assistant

About the Position

​​The Architectural Preservation and Research Associate will support the Architectural Preservation and Research team by managing and assisting with: project documentation and reporting; management of work on properties throughout the Historic Area; building inspections; documentation of and research on accessioned objects in the architectural collections; architectural research and documentation.​  

Main Duties:  

• ​​Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Manage and assist with the on- and off-site management of the Department of Architectural Preservation and Research projects and initiatives across the Foundation.
  • Coordinate, document, and manage projects as assigned. Includes providing project updates and information for activity reports.
  • Maintain ongoing, upcoming, and completed project lists as assigned.
  • Manage the preservation paint program and update Historic Area paint records.
  • Assist with condition assessments of original and reconstructed buildings and some modern facilities throughout the Foundation; gather information on buildings and their maintenance systems in support of the condition assessments.
  • Assist with building closings, including documentation and coordination between the Department of Architectural Preservation and Research and other internal groups.
  • Assist with the documentation and organization of the architectural fragment collection, including but not limited to database input, cataloging, photography, research, and written reports.
  • Assist with architectural research and documentation projects as assigned.
  • Perform other duties as required.​ 

This is a non-exempt position, eligible to receive overtime in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This position may be subject to overtime during high peak times, etc. as directed and approved by the supervisor. 

This job description reflects the general responsibilities of the position and is not intended to be an exhaustive list. Duties and responsibilities may evolve over time based on operational needs. 

Required Education and Experience: 

• ​​Must have a four-year undergraduate degree in historic preservation, architectural history, or closely related field.​
• Must possess a valid Commonwealth of Virginia driver’s license and have an acceptable driving record based on The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation’s criteria.
  • Must be able to provide a 5-year Motor Vehicle Record prior to employment
  • Must be at least 21 years of age
  • May not have more than 1 moving violation or at fault accident within 12 months
  • May not have more than 2 moving violations or at fault accidents within 36 months
  • May not have any serious motor vehicle violations including but not limited to excessive speeding, reckless driving, DUI/DWI, suspended or revoked license, etc. 

Preferred Qualifications: 

•  2+ years of professional experience.
• Knowledge of 18th-, 19th-, and 20th-century architectural styles and construction techniques; proficiency with design and imaging software; experience documenting historic structures; knowledge of investigative techniques; experience with the care and management of museum collections.​ 

Key Skills / Competencies: 

• ​​Knowledge of: 
  • 18th-, 19th-, and 20th-century architectural styles and construction techniques.
  • Experience documenting historic structures.
  • Investigative techniques.
  • Archival materials, cataloguing, and conducting primary research. Skills and Abilities:
  • Proficiency with design and imaging software.
  • Proficiency with hand- and computer-aided documentation.
  • Experience with the care and management of museum collections.
  • Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
  • Strong organization and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as a team member.​ 

Physical and Environmental Demands: 

​​Work is performed in a combination of office and external environments. The position may require walking, standing, and occasional bending or light lifting. The role may involve exposure to materials, tools, and environmental conditions typical of historic structures and their restoration.​  

For additional information and to apply, visit: Careers - Colonial Williamsburg