Preservationist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era of rapid development, the focus on preservationists has never been more pronounced.

As society surges ahead, the demand for proficient professionals who can preserve, restore, and safeguard our cultural and natural heritage grows more urgent.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a preservationist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the profile of the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of preservation work,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable preservationist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Preservationist Duties and Responsibilities

Preservationists are primarily responsible for preserving, conserving, and managing historical or culturally significant structures, artifacts, landscapes, and other assets.

They employ a wide range of skills and knowledge from fields such as history, architecture, archaeology, and planning to ensure these assets are protected and maintained for future generations.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Evaluating the historical or cultural significance of various artifacts, buildings, landscapes, and other assets
• Developing and implementing preservation plans and strategies
• Working with local, state, and national government agencies to ensure legal and regulatory compliance
• Conducting research to determine the original appearance and condition of assets
• Planning and overseeing restoration projects
• Advising architects, planners, and builders on preservation techniques and regulations
• Raising public awareness about the importance of preservation
• Securing funding for preservation projects through grants and other sources
• Maintaining records and creating detailed reports on preservation activities

 

Preservationist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Preservationist to join our team.

The Preservationist will be responsible for preserving, conserving, and restoring historical buildings, artifacts, and cultural heritage sites.

The Preservationist’s responsibilities include researching and documenting the historical significance of sites and artifacts, planning and overseeing restoration projects, and working with stakeholders to ensure the appropriate preservation of historical assets.

Our ideal candidate has a deep respect for cultural heritage, a strong background in history or archaeology, and hands-on experience in preservation or restoration projects.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct research to determine the historical significance of sites and artifacts.
• Develop and implement preservation plans and restoration projects.
• Collaborate with architects, contractors, and conservationists to ensure the integrity of historical sites.
• Document and maintain records of preservation activities.
• Assist in fundraising and grant writing efforts to secure funding for preservation projects.
• Provide advice and guidance on the application of preservation laws and regulations.
• Participate in public outreach programs to promote the importance of cultural heritage.

 

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in history, archaeology, architecture, or a related field.
• Proven experience in preservation or restoration projects.
• Knowledge of preservation laws and regulations.
• Strong research skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent project management abilities.
• Excellent communication and public speaking skills.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Preservationist
• Work Environment: The role may involve both office work and on-site work at historical locations. Some travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Preservation Manager or Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Preservationist Do?

Preservationists are professionals who work to preserve, conserve and protect buildings, objects, landscapes or other artifacts of historical significance.

They are often employed by government agencies, museums, historical societies, non-profit organizations, or architectural firms.

Some also work as independent consultants.

Preservationists conduct research to determine the historical significance and original state of the structures or objects they are working on.

They also assess the current condition of these items and identify any issues such as structural problems or decay.

They then devise plans and strategies for the preservation or restoration of these structures or objects.

This could include selecting appropriate conservation methods and materials, managing restoration projects, and ensuring that all work is carried out in a way that maintains the integrity and historical value of the item.

Preservationists also work to promote public awareness and appreciation of cultural heritage.

They may collaborate with other professionals such as historians, archeologists, architects, and planners to ensure that preservation considerations are incorporated into development plans.

In some roles, preservationists may also be involved in securing funding for preservation projects, through grant writing and fundraising activities.

They may also advise policy makers on preservation-related legislation and policies.

 

Preservationist Qualifications and Skills

A proficient preservationist should possess skills and qualifications that align with your job expectations, such as:

• Extensive knowledge of preservation methods and techniques to ensure the appropriate care and maintenance of historical artefacts and sites.
• Research skills to study historical documents and archives, improving the understanding of items or sites being preserved.
• Attention to detail to maintain the integrity and authenticity of preserved items or locations, and to identify any potential threats to their condition.
• Problem-solving skills to manage unexpected issues or challenges that may arise during the preservation process.
• Interpersonal skills to collaborate with various individuals including historians, archaeologists, and other preservationists, as well as to engage with the public in educational settings.
• Physical endurance as the role often involves fieldwork, requiring the ability to work in various weather conditions and physical settings.
• Communication skills to accurately document procedures, findings, and recommendations, and to effectively communicate with team members, stakeholders, and the public.
• Familiarity with legal and ethical guidelines related to preservation, including respect for cultural and historical context.

 

Preservationist Experience Requirements

Preservationists often possess a bachelor’s or master’s degree in fields such as history, archeology, architecture, or preservation studies.

In addition to their academic qualifications, they gain practical experience through internships, fieldwork, or volunteer work with museums, historical societies, or preservation organizations.

New preservationists typically have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through entry-level roles in museums, cultural resource management firms, or heritage tourism companies.

Their responsibilities may include researching historical structures and artifacts, assisting in conservation efforts, and documenting preservation procedures.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have a more specialized focus, such as architectural preservation or artifact conservation.

They may also have experience in grant writing, community outreach, or project management.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in the field are usually considered senior preservationists.

They may have leadership experience, such as overseeing a team of junior preservationists or managing large-scale preservation projects.

They may also have a track record of successful fundraising for preservation initiatives.

 

Preservationist Education and Training Requirements

Preservationists typically require a bachelor’s degree in a field such as architecture, history, art history, anthropology, or archaeology.

Courses in these programs often include studies in architectural history, conservation theory, and building materials.

A preservationist may also need to study planning laws, building codes, and project management.

Some positions may require a master’s degree in historic preservation or a related field.

These programs are interdisciplinary in nature, blending coursework in history, architecture, archaeology, and urban planning.

Preservationists are often required to have professional experience in the field before securing a full-time role.

This experience can be gained through internships, volunteering, or part-time work.

In addition to formal education, preservationists need a variety of skills including detail-oriented research abilities, written and verbal communication skills, and a keen understanding of historical and cultural significance.

Certain positions, particularly those in government agencies or higher-level roles, may require certification from a professional organization like the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP).

Continuing education and training are important for preservationists, as new preservation techniques and tools are constantly being developed.

A dedication to lifelong learning can enhance a preservationist’s career and contribute to the preservation of historical structures and sites.

 

Preservationist Salary Expectations

A Preservationist earns an average salary of $49,496 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may differ based on the individual’s experience, the size and location of the employing organization, and the specific nature of the preservation work involved.

 

Preservationist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a preservationist need?

Preservationists require a mix of analytical and technical skills.

They should have a strong understanding of historical context and architectural styles, and be able to assess the physical condition of historical sites and objects.

They should also possess excellent planning skills for project management, and good communication skills to deal with stakeholders and the public.

 

Do preservationists need a degree?

Yes, most preservationists have at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as historic preservation, architecture, archaeology, or history.

Some positions may require a master’s degree, particularly for roles in management or if they involve detailed research or teaching.

 

What should you look for in a preservationist resume?

A preservationist resume should show a solid educational background in a related field and any relevant experience, such as internships or work in museums, historical sites, or architectural firms.

If the candidate has participated in restoration or preservation projects, they should provide details about their role and the project’s scope.

Licenses, certifications, and memberships in professional organizations can also be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good preservationist?

A good preservationist has a passion for history and a keen eye for detail.

They need to have patience, as preservation work can be meticulous and time-consuming.

They should also be good at problem-solving, as they often need to find solutions that balance the preservation of historical integrity with modern safety and accessibility requirements.

 

What is the typical work environment for a preservationist?

Preservationists often split their time between office work, where they may conduct research and prepare reports, and field work at the sites they’re preserving.

This can involve travel and sometimes physically demanding work, depending on the condition of the site.

Some preservationists may also work in museums, universities, or government agencies.

 

Do preservationists need to have a background in construction or architecture?

While not always required, a background in construction or architecture can be beneficial for preservationists, especially for those working on the preservation of buildings or other large structures.

Knowledge of construction techniques and materials can help preservationists understand how a structure was built and how to best preserve or restore it.

However, many successful preservationists come from a variety of academic backgrounds.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being a preservationist.

Guess what?

It’s not just about safeguarding artifacts.

It’s about preserving our history and culture, one relic at a time.

With our indispensable preservationist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take your next step.

But why end here?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your express route to meticulously crafted job listings or enhancing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every artifact preserved is a chapter of our collective story.

Let’s keep our history alive. Together.