Artisanal Historic Wood Restoration Apprentice

Oak Brothers; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 28,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Meaningful work with clients

Payment of major holidays

Tuition assistance after six months

Sick leave per Chicago ordinance

Job summary

Oak Brothers in Chicago is seeking an entry-level restoration worker with a strong artisanal orientation and 1–2 years in a related trade. You will learn to restore historic wood elements, work with hand and basic power tools, and contribute to architectural restoration projects in a supportive shop environment.

We value craftsmanship, reliability, and a proactive mindset. This full-time, on-site role offers meaningful hands-on work, ongoing skill development, and opportunities to participate in

Qualifications

• Entry-level restoration role requiring 1-2 years in a related trade
• Must have transferable, craft-focused hand skills
• Willingness to learn restoration in architectural context

Responsibilities

• Repair and restore historic wood windows, including sash, frames, sills, muntins, glazing components
• Repair and restore historic wood doors, thresholds, casing, and hardware
• Repair and restore other interior architectural elements (cabinets, fireplaces, trim, paneling)
• Apply wood consolidants, fillers, adhesives, bleaches, and finishes properly
• Maintain consistency and quality during repetitive tasks
• Prepare and apply painted, stained, and clear finishes
• Transport tools and materials to job sites
• Keep work area clean and organized
• Communicate clearly with owner, coworkers, and clients on site
• Handle and store tools and equipment with care
• Follow PPE and safety procedures when handling toxic materials
• Build skills in preservation and restoration architecture

Skills

Transferable hand skills

Artistic sensibilities

Woodworking tools

Attention to detail

English communication

Tools

Table saw

Router

Planer

Chop saw

Hand planes

Chisels

Job description

Oak Brothers in Chicago is seeking an entry-level restoration worker with a strong artisanal orientation and 1–2 years in a related trade. You will learn to restore historic wood elements, work with hand and basic power tools, and contribute to architectural restoration projects in a supportive shop environment.

We value craftsmanship, reliability, and a proactive mindset. This full-time, on-site role offers meaningful hands-on work, ongoing skill development, and opportunities to participate in