What are the responsibilities and job description for the Preservation Craftsperson Intern position at Proprietors of the Cemetery of Mount Auburn?
Preservation Craftsperson Intern at Mount Auburn Cemetery
The Preservation Craftsperson is a paid internship. The internship traditionally runs from June through August (12 weeks). There may be flexibility on start and end dates.
Organization:
Mount Auburn Cemetery comprises 175 acres and is situated in Watertown and Cambridge near Boston, Massachusetts. Founded in 1831, and now visited by over 200,000 people each year, Mount Auburn is a National Historic Landmark, recognized as the first “rural cemetery” and the inspiration for the American Parks Movement during the 19th century. As an active cemetery, Mount Auburn inspires all who visit, comforts the bereaved, and commemorates the dead in a landscape of exceptional beauty. As an accredited arboretum, Mount Auburn features 5,000 trees and more than 20,000 plants overall.
Role and Responsibilities:
As a Preservation Craftsperson Intern, you will gain valuable hands-on experience working with Mount Auburn’s preservation staff repairing monuments and headstones using a combination of traditional and modern methods and materials. Projects include repointing of monuments, mausolea and other structures; adhesive repairs of broken marble, slate, sandstone and granite monuments; and the repair and resetting of loose or leaning headstones. Learn to properly mix, lay-up and cure a variety of mortar mixes formulated for use with different types of stone as well as the proper preparation and execution of high-quality patches using a range of patching materials. Learn cleaning methods for a variety of stone types utilizing detergents, steam and chemicals. Learn how to survey monuments for existing condition and prioritize preservation work utilizing mobile, cloud-based software in real time.
Qualifications and physical demands include but are not limited to:
- One year of related hands-on preservation experience preferred.
- A strong preservation ethic, patience, and the desire to perform careful, conscientious and lasting repairs to these invaluable historic resources.
- Must be able to operate a variety of hand and power tools safely and effectively including but not limited to various drills, circular saw, table saw, miter saw, angle grinder, reciprocating saw, and bench grinder.
- Basic computer skills and the ability to use a mouse and/or standard keyboard and computer equipment required.
- Heavy work that includes moving, adjusting, or carrying objects weighing up to 80 pounds on a [frequent/constant/occasional] basis
- Position involves moving in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments for extended period of time including, remaining in a stationary position and/or performing activities such as climbing, bending, twisting, reaching and pulling.
- Must be able to perform physically strenuous work, including heavy lifting, outdoors throughout the summer in all weather conditions.
- Ability to speak fluent English required. Ability to speak Spanish is a plus.
- Must possess a valid driver’s license.
Mount Auburn Cemetery is an equal-opportunity employer. It does not discriminate in employment opportunities on the basis of race, color, ancestry, religion, gender, national origin, age, pregnancy, citizenship status, physical or mental ability, military status, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by law.
