Preventive Conservation Aide

Colonial Williamsburg Foundation; Williamsburg (VA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A cultural preservation organization in Virginia is seeking a Preventive Conservation Aide to support the cleaning and maintenance of cultural assets. This role involves routine cleaning, inspections, and ensuring the preservation of collections. Candidates should have a high school diploma, a willingness to learn, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Flexibility to work various shifts is required. The position offers an opportunity to engage in diverse tasks while contributing to the preservation of history.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience in housekeeping/general services preferred.
• Experience with museum collections is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine cleaning using conservation-safe methods.
• Assist with inspections of collections and buildings.
• Support exhibition installations and maintenance tasks.

Skills

Willingness to learn safe operation of cleaning and maintenance equipment

Ability to follow instructions

Basic comfort with computers

Reliability in working independently and with a team

Good time management

Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays

Education

High school graduate or equivalent

Job description

Overview

The Preventive Conservation Aide plays a vital role in protecting and preserving Colonial Williamsburg’s cultural assets. This position focuses on routine cleaning, inspections, and maintenance using conservation-safe methods, as well as assisting with collections care and handling. All work follows established procedures to ensure the long-term preservation of the collection.

About The Position

Colonial Williamsburg Foundation is a private, not-for-profit educational, historic, and cultural institution that owns and operates a large museum complex. The organization preserves and restores 18th-century Williamsburg, Virginia’s colonial capital, and engages the public to learn about its history and the diverse peoples who helped shape a new nation. The Historic Area is staffed by trained interpreters and tradespeople; the Foundation also operates two museums, a research library, and world-class accommodations and dining experiences. Annual visitors exceed five million, with additional digital engagement.

Essential Duties

• Perform routine cleaning of assigned sites using conservation-safe methods and following Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (CWF) standards.
• Follow established checklists to ensure work is thorough, consistent, and meets preventive conservation goals.
• Assist in inspecting collections, buildings, equipment, and interior environmental conditions, reporting unusual findings to a supervisor.
• Use tools, chemicals, and equipment according to safety, conservation, and manufacturer guidelines; maintain familiarity with Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
• Keep shared work and storage areas organized and stocked with approved supplies and tools.
• Assist colleagues and supervisors with non-routine cleaning projects and preventive maintenance tasks.
• Support exhibition installation, preventive maintenance closures, and collection handling after receiving required training.
• Participate in safety, security, and preventive conservation training as assigned.
• Assist with preparation and cleanup for special events.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience

• High school graduate or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in housekeeping/general services.
• Museum collections experience.

Key Skills / Competencies

• Willingness to learn safe operation of cleaning and maintenance equipment.
• Ability to follow instructions and communicate effectively in person and in writing.
• Basic comfort with computers and willingness to learn essential software for email, scheduling, and communication.
• Ability to read and follow directions on cleaning supplies and chemicals.
• Reliability in working both independently and with a team.
• Good time management; able to use materials and equipment efficiently and with care.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as assigned, up to an eight-hour shift.
• Valid driver’s license and have an acceptable driving record as measured against Colonial Williamsburg’s criteria.
• Must be able to provide a 5-year Motor Vehicle Record prior to employment.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• May not have more than 1 moving violation or at-fault accident within 12 months.
• May not have more than 2 moving violations or at-fault accidents within 36 months.
• May not have any serious motor vehicle violations including but not limited to excessive speeding, reckless driving, DUI/DWI, suspended or revoked license, etc.

Physical and Environmental Demands

• Will include standing, walking, reaching, and mobility of hands/fingers.
• Will require lifting of 10–25 lbs and occasionally up to 50 lbs or more, with assistance.

Typical Work Schedule

7:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 5 day schedule over 7 days per week. Alternating weekends. Occasional late events. This is a non-exempt position, eligible to receive overtime in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This position may be subject to overtime during high peak times, as directed and approved by the supervisor.