Brickyard Interpreter (Summer)

Open To External And Internal Candidates • Williamsburg, VA

18h • Onsite

About The Position

Works primarily at the Brickyard site producing handmade bricks used in Colonial Williamsburg’s ongoing reconstruction and conservation efforts. Performs traditional brickmaking processes — including digging clay, treading clay with water by foot (barefoot as part of the historical method), molding, and stacking bricks — while in period costume and in view of the public. Engages guests through interpretation of 18th-century brickmaking methods, tools, labor practices, and the broader context of the masonry trades during the 1607–1781 period. This is a casual position, working full-time, 5 days a week, 8 hours a day, 40 hours a week, for up to 12 weeks.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Ability to meet the physical requirements of the trade including…
• Ability to lift and carry 75 lbs.
• Ability to carry 150 lbs. on a wheelbarrow
• Ability to perform all of the steps required in the production of bricks, plaster, mortar, lime, etc.
• Ability to work in excavated trenches and on scaffolding or other uncomfortable work environments as work needs require.
• Ability to work in dusty environments while wearing proper safety gear, including respirators.
• Ability to safely handle and work with chemical materials such as lime, mineral spirits, linseed oil, etc.
• Ability to perform repetitive work safely with traditional 18th century tools.
• Ability to work under extreme weather conditions, including temperatures over 100 degrees, with heavy pollen and humidity.
• Ability to perform activities that require repeated or long-term standing, kneeling/squatting, lifting, and stooping.

Nice To Haves

• Four-year degree in American History or on subject matter relating to American history and/or the masonry trades.
• Previous living history museum experience.

Responsibilities

• Produces handmade bricks using traditional 18th-century tools and techniques, including digging clay, treading clay with water by foot to achieve proper consistency, molding bricks, and stacking for drying.
• Interprets the history, technology, labor practices, and cultural significance of brickmaking and related trades to diverse audiences in a variety of settings.
• Engages guests in a welcoming, educational manner while performing trade work in a public environment.
• Wears and maintains appropriate period clothing in accordance with Historic Clothing and Dress standards to support an authentic 18th-century atmosphere.
• Follows established safety and security procedures related to tools, materials, equipment, and site operations.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED