Preservation Craftsperson Intern

As a Preservation Craftsperson Intern, you will gain valuable hands-on experience working with Mount Auburns preservation staff repairing monuments and headstones using a combination of traditional and modern methods and materials. Projects include repointing of various buildings and 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 and prioritize preservation project utilizing mobile, cloud-based software in real time.

About this Role:

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  • 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

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: 

  • Prior hands-on preservation experience is preferred
  • Basic computer skills required and the ability to use a mouse and/or standard keyboard and computer equipment
  • Must possess a valid driver’s license

REQUIRED PHYSICAL DEMANDS: 

  • Ability to lift and carry heavy materials (maximum 50 lbs.)
  • Ability to bend, walk, kneel, stoop, crouch, stand and/or reach overhead for long periods of time
  • Employee must be able to perform physically strenuous work, including heavy lifting, outdoors throughout the summer

WORKING CONDITIONS: 

  • Works outdoors in all weather conditions 
  • The Preservation Craftsperson is a paid internship
  • The internship traditionally runs from June through August (12 weeks) - Some flexibility on start and end dates

About our 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. 

All employees of Mount Auburn Cemetery are “at will’ employees and must adhere to Mount Auburn’s “Business Ethics and Conduct.”

How to Apply

Please send a cover letter and resume (Microsoft Word document or PDF) and include “Preservation Craftsperson Intern” in the subject area, to: jobs@mountauburn.org.  

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.