Apprentice Wigmaker

About the role

The primary function of the Wigmaker apprentice is to rediscover, learn and preserve the varied trade skills of the 18th-century Wigmaker, Barber, and Hairdresser, and interpret those skills to the public, both orally and in writing. Progression through the apprenticeship is based on demonstrated growth in three core competencies: Hand Skills, Research, and Interpretation.

Responsibilities

• Develop proficiency in the eighteenth-century skills of the Wigmaker, Hairdresser, and Barber through completion of the apprenticeship curriculum and object-based reproductions.
• Maintain, style, fit, and care for the Foundation's collection of wigs and hairpieces for daily operations, performances, and special programs.
• Collaborate with other Historic Trades and Foundation departments on production projects supporting preservation and interpretive goals.
• Follow established safety and security procedures for the shop, tools, materials, equipment, and worksite.
• Conduct historical research on the trade, its practitioners, and related topics to support craftsmanship and interpretation.
• Present research findings through written reports, oral presentations, and interpretive programming.
• Provide engaging, historically accurate interpretation of the trade, its history, techniques, and significance to diverse audiences.
• Plan and lead interpretive programs, demonstrations, seminars, workshops, and special events.
• Instruct Foundation staff and apprentices in the history, skills, and interpretation of the trade, and assist in developing training curriculum.

Requirements

• High school degree/G.E.D. with a general knowledge of 18th c. colonial history.
• Must possess a valid Commonwealth of Virginia driver’s license and have an acceptable driving record based on The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation’s criteria.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• May not have more than 1 moving violation or at fault accident within 12 months.
• May not have more than 2 moving violations or at fault accidents within 36 months.
• May not have any serious motor vehicle violations including but not limited to excessive speeding, reckless driving, DUI/DWI, suspended or revoked license, etc.

Qualifications

• Four-year Degree in American History and/or successful completion or Certification from a Trade School with a concentration in handwork.

Skills

• Excellent communication skills, verbal and written.
• Ability to work in collaboration.
• Strong knowledge of computer systems, including Microsoft 365.
• Provide Excellent Customer Service to internal and external clients.
• Ability to do research, learn, and teach different skills, varied hand skills usually gained through progressive work experience.
• Able to provide logical and creative solutions within a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work independently and with minimal direction, meeting deadlines and shifting priorities.

Physical and Environmental Demands

• Stand Occasionally.
• Walk Frequently.
• Sit Frequently.
• Use hands/fingers Constantly.
• Climb or balance Rarely.
• Stoop/kneel/crouch/crawl Occasionally.
• Reach with hands/arms Occasionally.
• Talk or hear Constantly.
• Lifting up to 10 lbs. Frequently.
• Lifting up to 25 lbs. Occasionally.
• Lifting up to 50 lbs. (with assistance) Occasionally.
• Lifting up to 100 lbs. (with assistance) Rarely.
• More than 100 lbs. (with assistance) Rarely.
• Wet/humid conditions: Occasionally.
• Work near moving mechanical parts: Rarely.
• Fumes/airborne particles: Constantly.
• Extreme cold: Occasionally.
• Extreme heat: Occasionally.
• Risk of electrical shock Rarely.
• Driving requirement: Yes.

Pay

Range: $18.50-$19.00 per hour.

Schedule

Typical Work Schedule: 8.5 hours/day, 40 hours/week.