Description

Preservation Carpenter
Full-Time, Non-Exempt, Temporary

Position Overview:
The Temporary Preservation Carpenter is a temporary, full-time, non-exempt-status position, working within the Historic Preservation and Collections Department under the direct supervision of the Restoration Manager and the Assistant Restoration Manager. The Temporary Preservation Carpenter is charged with supporting the overall mission of the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association and the Historic Preservation and Collections department to conserve, maintain, record, and study the historic resources of Mount Vernon.

The Temporary Preservation Carpenter works as part of a team of carpenters to dress and fit new timber members, execute finish carpentry, and conduct necessary repairs to the historic fabric. The carpenter will work closely with members of the larger architecture team, with particular focus on collaborative tasks. Work may also include carpentry work on other structures, including 18th-century outbuildings, and reconstructed livestock enclosures, fencing, and gates.

This is a temporary, full-time, benefitted position that is dependent on project funding, payable on Mount Vernon’s bi-weekly pay schedule.
 
Compensation:
starting at $28.00/hour 
 
Expected Hours:
40 hours/week

Responsibilities:
The Preservation Carpenter will

• assist with the restoration of sensitive historic fabric in Mount Vernon’s Mansion and outbuildings; this includes framing, trim, and siding.
• contribute to project documentation in collaboration with the Architectural Historian, Preservation Specialist, and Preservation Technician;
• collaborate with consultants and contractors to facilitate efficient and successful project outcomes;
  Undertake other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Qualifications:
The Preservation Carpenter position at George Washington’s Mount Vernon requires:

• a minimum of 3 years’ experience in restoration carpentry or timber framing, with mastery of the materials used in the mid-Atlantic and Chesapeake regions during the 18th century;
• demonstrated expertise in the use of period techniques and tools, as well as the use of modern hand and power tools;
• knowledge of the maintenance of historic buildings, particularly in the diagnosis of the pathologies of wood and wooden structures;
• the ability to understand contextual research and architectural history;
• the ability to work both independently and within a team, prioritize tasks, and communicate information in a clear and well-organized manner;
• work at varying heights, stand and bend for extended periods of time, and lift up to 30 pounds;
  familiarity with jobsite and shop safety practices, regulations, and etiquette;
• Flexibility, reliability, punctuality, and the ability to work beyond a normal workday as needed are expected.

Work Environment:
This role involves working on and around historic structures in both indoor and outdoor settings. Conditions may include exposure to weather, dust, aging materials, and active restoration sites. Work may occur at heights, in confined spaces, or on scaffolding while preserving historically significant buildings.
 
Physical Requirements:
Must be able to climb ladders and scaffolding, stand for extended periods, bend, kneel, and lift up to 50 pounds. Requires manual dexterity for detailed restoration work, use of hand and power tools, and visual acuity to assess structural conditions and craftsmanship details.