Maintenance and Preservation Specialist

State of Montana•Virginia City, MT

19h•Onsite

About The Position

The Montana Heritage Commission preserves and protects the historic character of Virginia City, Nevada City, and Reeder’s Alley—ensuring these historic landmarks remain safe, functional, and meaningful for visitors. The Maintenance and Preservation Specialist is a hands-on role centered on maintaining over 200 historic buildings, artifacts, and cultural resources. This position plays a crucial part in the day‑to‑day care, repair, and long‑term preservation of Montana’s most treasured historic sites.

Requirements

Experience in historic preservation, construction, or facility maintenance
Proficiency in carpentry both conventional stick-built & timber frame construction , masonry, painting, and restoration work.
Ability to communicate tactfully with stakeholders, visitors, and vendors
Creative problem solving skills and a positive, can do approach
Ability to perform hands on labor, including ladder work, equipment operation, and lifting heavy materials
Availability for after hours, holiday, and weekend work as needed

Responsibilities

Performing skilled repairs on roofs, windows, foundations, interior/exterior finishes, and structural components.
Conducting routine inspections to identify maintenance needs and prioritize repair work.
Supporting general operations in display buildings and visitor areas.
Applying advanced carpentry skills to repair, fabricate, and reproduce historic architectural elements.
Conducting masonry repairs using materials and methods that honor original construction.
Preserving historic features with careful attention to accuracy and long-term durability.
Maintaining roads, fences, public walkways, and outdoor spaces that support daily visitor use.
Operating and maintaining equipment such as tractors, backhoes, welders, and power tools.
Incorporating safety practices and hazard awareness across diverse historic work environments.