Preservation Technician — Museum Collections Care

CW Talent; Williamsburg (VA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Colonial Williamsburg Foundation seeks a Preventive Conservation Technician to protect and preserve cultural assets. You will perform routine cleaning, monitor environmental conditions, and document conservation data across sites, ensuring timely project delivery and safety compliance.

Requires a high school diploma or GED, 3+ years in museum care, and a valid Virginia driver’s license; 40-hour week with occasional evenings or weekends.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED required.
• Three or more years of experience handling, cleaning, or caring for museum collections.
• Must possess a valid Commonwealth of Virginia driver’s license and have an acceptable driving record.
• Must provide a 5-year motor vehicle record prior to employment.
• Must be at least 21 years old with driving-record restrictions as specified.

Responsibilities

• Perform regular, routine cleaning of collections and surrounding areas according to conservation standards.
• Maintain records of work performed via checklists at each site.
• Inspect collection and building conditions; monitor environmental conditions (RH, temp, light) in storage and display areas.
• Set up sensors and recording instruments and compile permanent data records.
• Document conditions and assist with conservation projects and exhibition activities.
• Assist with administrative tasks and maintain supply inventories; follow safety guidelines.

Skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Computer skills

Teamwork

Education

High School diploma or GED

Valid Virginia driver’s license

Tools

Hand tools and power equipment

Job description

Colonial Williamsburg Foundation seeks a Preventive Conservation Technician to protect and preserve cultural assets. You will perform routine cleaning, monitor environmental conditions, and document conservation data across sites, ensuring timely project delivery and safety compliance.

Requires a high school diploma or GED, 3+ years in museum care, and a valid Virginia driver’s license; 40-hour week with occasional evenings or weekends.