Preservation Carpenter

The Preservation Carpenter will perform skilled tasks to support the conservation and repair of Shelburne Museum’s 40 historic buildings, many of which date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Reporting to the Director of Preservation and Facilities, the successful candidate will primarily focus on preservation carpentry, with occasional involvement in special projects and a variety of semi-skilled tasks.

Essential Job Functions:

• Perform a wide range of carpentry tasks, including framing, finish work, and the installation of elements such as sills, posts, beams, rafters, doors, windows, floors, staircases, interior and exterior trim, roofing, and more.
• Assess deteriorated wooden components and assist in developing restoration or repair plans.
  Install and repair wooden elements on both historic and non-historic structures, employing modern and traditional techniques.
• Assist with sourcing and researching materials, products, and contractors appropriate for historic preservation projects.
• Safely use ladders, scaffolding, and other equipment as required.
• Work in both indoor and outdoor environments.
• Adhere to building codes, regulations, and best practices.
• Assist in documenting historic buildings through hand-measured drawings.
• Collaborate effectively in a team environment and adapt to changing tasks and schedules.
• Repair of any type of building material such as, but not limited to walls, floors, roofs and foundations.
• Construct gallery cases and shop-based projects.
• Assist with the opening and closing of exhibit spaces and buildings, as well as manual tasks like snow removal, tent setup for special events, and installation or deinstallation of air conditioners.
• Respond to maintenance requests from all departments and prioritize carpentry tasks to ensure completion.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Job Qualifications:

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in preservation trades is preferred, but a strong appreciation for historic preservation is essential.
• Knowledge of traditional construction methods and historic finish carpentry practices is required.
• Experience with historic timber framing is preferred.
• Familiarity with framing repairs using period joinery, wood roofing, and other historic trades (e.g., masonry, plastering, metalworking, slate work) is a plus.
• Knowledge of the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties is preferred, as all work on historic structures is guided by these standards.
  Capable of identifying plumbing, electrical, and carpentry issues and directing them to the appropriate tradesperson.
• A valid driver’s license with a clean driving record is required.
  Skilled in use of carpentry equipment with strong adherence to safety and security guidelines.
• Creative, detail-oriented, versatile, and able to work collaboratively across departments.
• Experience working carefully in historic and gallery spaces.
• AutoCAD experience is a plus.
• Completion of pulmonary function and respirator fit tests required.

Job benefits: Full Museum benefits package including health, dental and generous paid time off. Spectacular working environment; committed, friendly co-workers; discount at the Museum Store and Café; passes to the museum to share with friends and family; and reciprocal benefits at regional museums and attractions.

Physical Demands / Work Environment: • Lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly. • Climb ladders, bend, kneel, perform repetitive motions, and work in confined spaces. • Work outdoors year-round in varying weather conditions; perform physically demanding tasks such as snow removal and heavy lifting.

How to Apply: Please email our Human Resources department at HR@shelburnemuseum.org and provide a Cover Letter and Resume (PDF format preferred). For more information, visit our careers page: https://shelburnemuseum.org/about/employment/. Please note that any offer of employment is contingent upon a clear background check.

• Contact Name: Bailey Moody
• Application Email: hr@shelburnemuseum.org
• Application Address: ATTN: Human Resources PO Box 10 Shelburne, VT 05482

This job posting will expire 9/30/2025.