Historic Restoration Worker

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

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.
  
  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).

• 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…