​Historic Culinary Arts Apprentice

Colonial Williamsburg Foundation • Williamsburg, VA

6d • Onsite

About The Position

An apprentice supports the Education and Preservation Mission of Historic Trades and the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation by learning and demonstrating the hand skills required to manufacture traditional work of the colonial period. The Apprentice will research primary and secondary 18th-century sources and object-based study. The Apprentice will work with artisans of various trades, historians, curators, and conservators to better understand a specific trade. The Apprentice will preserve and perpetuate the trade skills by providing a pro-active interpretation of the work, the state of technology, and the diverse people who populated and produced such work in the 18th century.

Requirements

• High school degree/G.E.D. with a general knowledge of 18th c. colonial history.
• Must possess a valid Commonwealth of Virginia driver’s license and have an acceptable driving record based on The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation’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.

Nice To Haves

• Four-year Degree in American History and or Successful Completion or Certification from a Trade School with a concentration in handwork
• Excellent communication skills, verbal and written
• Ability to work in collaboration
• Strong knowledge of computer systems, including Microsoft 365
• Provide Excellent Customer Service to internal and external clients
• Ability to do research, learn, and teach different skills, varied hand skills usually gained through progressive work experience.
• Able to provide logical and creative solutions within a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work independently and with minimal direction, meeting deadlines and shifting priorities
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends.

Responsibilities

• Interprets the history, skills, products, and significance of historic foodways for a variety of audiences.
• Assists with seminars, workshops, media events, blog content, and staff training.
• Demonstrates professionalism, hospitality, and effective public engagement.
• Conducts research on 18th-century foodways, cooking practices, and trade practitioners.
• Uses findings to support new interpretive programs and present information clearly in writing and speech.
• Develops proficiency in 18th-century cooking and food-related trade skills through hands-on apprenticeship work.
• Uses traditional tools safely while meeting quality and production standards.
• Performs strenuous physical work in varied weather conditions.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED