Window Preservation Technician
May 12 - July 14
Seeking individuals who are wanting to enter a *new* skilled trade and long-term employment opportunity in the Houston historic preservation scene.
We offer specialized skills in bringing life and functionality back to windows built before 1950. We use preservation methods which take great care and consideration into prolonging the service life of historic architecture.
The employment/training process runs much like a traditional apprentice model with a half hour of “classroom” education a week (for the first six months) on topics not covered in on the job training, and an increase in wages/title as specific skill sets are mastered. Because this is a specialized trade, training on the job is substantial and requires proficiency in many skillsets.
Apprentice: 6 months
Journeyman: 1 year
Craftsman: 6 months
Master Craftsman: 1 year
The apprentice receives a $2 increase after the first six months, then a $2 increase after Journeyman is fulfilled, then a $3 increase after Craftsman fulfilled, along with a $3 increase following Master Craftsman – with opportunity for substantial wage growth and company responsibilities as a Master Craftsman. Higher than industry average paid time off benefits.
The first six months, the Apprentice can expect to be fulfilling many general labor duties as well as slowly getting exposed to skills such as: safe removal of lead paint, wood finishing, glass glazing, detailed painting, weatherstripping, wood repairs, and fabrication.
We are a small and growing company. This means that there will be many changes over time and you will be directly instrumental in the evolution of the company.
This position can be very physically and mentally demanding. Work is performed on both historic properties as well as in an East Houston workshop, split roughly 50/50. There is sometimes heavy lifting, precise and repetitive movements, hot Houston summers, standing most of the time, and having to wear respirators for about 30% of the time.
Requirements:
– Must be desiring to enter a new skilled trade with long-term growth opportunities.
– Have a personal vehicle
– Speak English
– Able to work 40 hours per week
– Able to complete an I-9 form to verify identity and work authorization.
– Live in Houston. Workshop is located in east downtown.
QUALIFICATIONS
Because window restoration is such a specialized trade, no previous experience is expected or required. While other skilled trades apply to the various skill sets we use, preservation trades is very unique in methods and practices. Modern glazier work, modern carpentry, and modern painting will not apply to what we do.
The type of candidate we are seeking is someone with a passion for growing and learning in a new hands-on craft, a respect for hard work, and a very conscientious detail-oriented mindset.
If you love historic buildings and homes, love hands-on work, value meaningful work, not opposed to physical/mental challenges, thrive on problem-solving, and have an innate curiosity, you will stand out above the rest.
Company Description
