Historic Restoration Craftsperson

Position Overview

We are looking for an entry-level restoration worker with strong, transferable hand skills

developed through 1-2 years of experience in a related trade or artisanal position who is eager

to develop their potential in an architectural context. The ideal candidate will be equally

committed to both craftsmanship and aesthetic/artistic values—in short, an artisanal

orientation. Besides hand skills, you will have some experience with and a capacity to quickly

learn to accomplish woodworking tasks with basic machine tools.

Skills and Qualifications

Because training is part of the job, persons need not have the specific restoration competencies

and skills required. Persons must, however, have the following:

 Established transferable job-related hand skills through 1 to 2 years experience .

Some jobs with transferable skills include: artist, chef (not line cook),

seamstress/tailor, trim carpenter, luthier, picture framer, art conservator, theatrical

set builder; furniture restoration, faux finisher/decorative arts painter, etc.

 Artistic sensibilities combined with craftsman-level skills which enable one to

integrate finishing and structural/functional aspects of the architectural restoration

process.

 Some experience working with both hand and basic power wood working tools

(table saw, router, planer, chop saw, hand planes and chisels, tape measure).

 Neatness, precision, and delicacy in attending to details.

 Ability to work for extended periods of time standing, kneeling/crouching/stooping,

using hands and reaching.

 Frequent lifting and moving required of items 25 to 50+ pounds. Less frequent

lifting and moving of items up to 80 pounds.

 Ability to maintain quality and productivity while engaged in repetitive tasks over

extended periods of time.

 Appreciation for vintage artifacts, restoration/preservation principles, and the

history of architecture.

 A stellar work ethic (defined as honesty, integrity, and industriousness).

 Reliability, punctuality, and ability to work both independently and in coordination

with other crafts persons.

 Rather than mindless engagement in tasks, the ability and initiative to think

creatively about ways to accomplish tasks, accomplishing them with efficiency and

quality.

 A capacity to maintain productivity while working independently and in coordination

with others.

 A willingness to follow personal protection procedures and wear protective

equipment when working with toxic chemicals and/or materials (such as lead paint).

 Independent means of transportation and the ability to commute to both the shop

in the South Shore neighborhood and onsite throughout the Chicagoland area.

 Proficiency in English speaking and listening (understanding).

Key Responsibilities

 Assist in repairing, and restoring historic wood windows including sash, frames, sills,

muntins, and glazing components.

 Assist in repairing and restoring historic wood doors, thresholds, casing, and associated

hardware.

 Assist in repairing and restoring other interior architectural elements, including built-in

cabinets, fireplace surrounds, staircases, wood trim, wall paneling, pocket doors and

other interior elements.

 Apply appropriate wood consolidates, fillers, adhesives, bleaches, and finishes in a

workmanlike manner.

 Maintain consistency, quality, and economy while doing repetitive procedures over an

extended period.

 Prep. and apply painted, stained, and clear finishes.

 Transport tools and materials to and from job sites.

 Maintain a clean and organized work environment

 Communicate clearly and respectfully with the owner, co-workers, and with clients on

site.

 Handle and store tools and equipment with care.

 Develop an understanding of and have a willingness to follow personal protection

procedures and wear protective equipment when working with toxic chemicals and

other hazardous materials (such as lead paint).

 Maintain a commitment to building your own skills in and understanding of preservation

and restoration architecture, recognizing that increased productivity enhances self-

worth and results in increased compensation.

Wages and Benefits:

This is a full-time (35-40 hrs.), hourly wage position at a rate commensurate with one’s skill

level. $20-$24/hr.

Benefits beginning day one:

 Meaningful work with dignity for appreciative clientele.

 While many of the trades will be increasingly focused on hiring “installers” you will

acquire valuable hand skills and be contributing to creative projects.

 The satisfaction that comes from participating in projects from beginning to end, thus

experiencing the (sometimes magical) transformation which one’s work has enabled.

 Per the Chicago Paid Leave Ordinance, one hour of sick leave is accrued for every 35 hrs.

worked.

Benefits beginning after six months:

 Six paid major holidays.

 Wage increases commensurate with skill development that is contributing to increased

productivity.

 Partial tuition assistance for approved continuing education.

To Apply

In addition to submitting a resume, submit either a cover letter or a 5-minute voice recording,

and a portfolio.

For the cover letter or recording: Tell us why this position interests you and how your skills and

qualifications correspond with the ones required for this position as described in the job

description. The portfolio does not have to be formal. But photos should be accompanied by

descriptions of what you accomplished in the project and what skills were employed.

Important! Your application will only receive consideration if you send all three parts--the

resume, your cover letter or recording, and your portfolio.

Subject Heading: Restoration Worker Zip