Intern - Bookbinder

Open To External And Internal Candidates • Williamsburg, VA

4d • Onsite

About The Position

Historic Trades internships are ten to twelve-week experiences working with the Historic Trades department at Colonial Williamsburg. Usually, interns are assigned to a particular trade shop or group of related trades, where they assist the full-time staff in operation of the shop(s), including interpretation and demonstration to guests, production, and research. In turn, interns can learn about the trade(s), develop trade skills, gain experience with public contact and service, and acquire insights about museum and living history careers. Other internship opportunities may entail opportunities like assisting with department administration, specific research projects, or publications. Internships usually require commitment to a 40-hour work week. If appropriate, costumes are provided. Locating housing is the responsibility of the intern. While internships are not offered for educational credit, we will work with individuals if their school has credited programs for which an Historic Trades internship might qualify.

Requirements

• Demonstrated interest in traditional trades and a desire to explore the possibilities of a career as a museum professional.
• Good communication and guest service skills.
• Ability to work well as part of a shop team.
• Adaptability to changing shop schedules, assignments, and special projects and programs.
• Aptitude to do manual work while interpreting to visitors.
• Aptitude to learn trade skills combining problem solving, good hand/eye coordination and an eye for details.
• Ability to work safely with heat and sharp tools.
• Must be able to work without the comfort of modern heat in winter or air conditioning in summer.
• Ability to learn the Bookbinding trade.
• Ability to work independently, or as part of a team.
• Ability to take direction and accept constructive criticism.
• Communication & Customer Service.
• Must be able to work in hot or cold weather.
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs unassisted.
• Must be able to work in low light conditions

Nice To Haves

• Enrollment or completion in an undergraduate program in American History or on subject matter related to the intern experience.
• Experience working with the trade.
• Interest in 18th-century material culture.
• Previous living history museum experience.
• Familiarity with the Colonial Williamsburg Historic Trades program.

Responsibilities

• Assists the shop staff by interpreting and demonstrating trades to guests, engaging in production, and undertaking assigned research projects.
• Provides outstanding customer service.
• Follows safety and security procedures established for the site, tools, materials, and equipment.
• Ensures that the safety and security procedures are followed in the absence of the supervisor and journeymen.
• Performs other related duties as required.
• Applicants are asked to submit a cover letter of the experience they desire and what they offer to contribute to Trades operations

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed