Historic Trade Intern - Blacksmith

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 have the opportunity to 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.

Housing is NOT provided, it 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 a Historic Trades internship might qualify.

WORK TO BE PERFORMED:

• Assists Historic Tradesmen and Tradeswomen by engaging our guests within the workshops interpreting and demonstrating the trade, assisting in work production, and performing other duties related to shop operation as assigned.

• 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

QUALIFICATIONS: 

• 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.

• Must be able to work without the comfort of modern heat in winter or air conditioning in summer.

• Must be able to work a flexible schedule.

Applicants are asked to submit a cover letter of the experience they desire and what they offer to contribute to Trades operations.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 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.