{"schemaVersion":"jobsearcher.job.v1","id":"da853312082005e375d4ff02","url":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/da853312082005e375d4ff02","canonicalUrl":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/da853312082005e375d4ff02","title":"Apprentice Wigmaker","description":"Who We Are\nFounded in 1926, the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation is a private, not-for-profit educational, historic, and cultural institution that owns and operates one of the largest and best-known museum complexes in the world. Our mission is “that the future may learn from the past” through preserving and restoring 18th-century Williamsburg, Virginia’s colonial capital. We engage, inform, and inspire people to learn about this historic capital, the events that occurred here, and the diverse peoples who helped shape a new nation.\nToday, Colonial Williamsburg is the largest living history museum in the U.S. The Historic Area is the 301-acre restored colonial capital with 88 original buildings and 525 buildings reconstructed to how they appeared in the 18th century through extensive archaeological, architectural, and documentary research. The Historic Area is staffed by highly trained, historically dressed interpreters and expert tradespeople who bring the 18th century to life. The Foundation also owns and operates two world-class museums, the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum, and the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum, and a renowned research library, the John D Rockefeller Jr Library.\nAbout the Position\nThe 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. Apprentices advance by mastering increasingly complex techniques, conducting and applying historical research, and effectively communicating the history, significance, and practice of the trade through public interpretation, instruction, and leadership. Advancement is measured through the successful completion of progressively challenging object-based reproductions, scholarly research projects, interpretive presentations, and the demonstrated ability to mentor others while contributing to the mission of preserving, perpetuating, and presenting the historic trades of Colonial Williamsburg.\nMain Duties\nResponsibilities include but are not limited to:\nHand Skills:\nDevelop proficiency in the eighteenth-century skills of the Wigmaker, Hairdresser, and Barber through completion of the apprenticeship curriculum and object-based reproductions.\nMaintain, style, fit, and care for the Foundation's collection of wigs and hairpieces for daily operations, performances, and special programs.\nCollaborate with other Historic Trades and Foundation departments on production projects supporting preservation and interpretive goals.\nFollow established safety and security procedures for the shop, tools, materials, equipment, and worksite.\nResearch:\nConduct historical research on the trade, its practitioners, and related topics to support craftsmanship and interpretation.\nPresent research findings through written reports, oral presentations, and interpretive programming.\nCollaborate with Foundation staff and external professionals to expand knowledge and develop new interpretive initiatives.\nParticipate in professional development opportunities, including travel for specialized research and training.\nInterpretation:\nProvide engaging, historically accurate interpretation of the trade, its history, techniques, and significance to diverse audiences.\nPlan and lead interpretive programs, demonstrations, seminars, workshops, and special events.\nInstruct Foundation staff and apprentices in the history, skills, and interpretation of the trade, and assist in developing training curriculum.\nDemonstrate exceptional hospitality, professionalism, and customer service while interacting with guests and colleagues.\nThis is a non-exempt position, eligible to receive overtime in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This position may be subject to overtime during high peak times, etc. as directed and approved by the supervisor.\nThis job description reflects the general responsibilities of the position and is not intended to be an exhaustive list. Duties and responsibilities may evolve over time based on operational needs.\nRequired Education and Experience:\nHigh school degree/G.E.D. with a general knowledge of 18th c. colonial history.\nMust possess a valid Commonwealth of Virginia driver’s license and have an acceptable driving record based on The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation’s criteria.\nMust be able to provide a 5-year Motor Vehicle Record prior to employment\nMust be at least 21 years of age\nMay not have more than 1 moving violation or at fault accident within 12 months\nMay not have more than 2 moving violations or at fault accidents within 36 months\nMay not have any serious motor vehicle violations including but not limited to excessive speeding, reckless driving, DUI/DWI, suspended or revoked license, etc.\nPreferred Qualifications:\nFour-year Degree in American History and/or successful completion or Certification from a Trade School with a concentration in handwork.\nKey Skills / Competencies:\nExcellent communication skills, verbal and written\nAbility to work in collaboration\nStrong knowledge of computer systems, including Microsoft 365\nProvide Excellent Customer Service to internal and external clients\nAbility to do research, learn, and teach different skills, varied hand skills usually gained through progressive work experience.\nAble to provide logical and creative solutions within a fast-paced environment\nAbility to work independently and with minimal direction, meeting deadlines and shifting priorities\nMust be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends.\nSupervisory Responsibilities:\nPossible supervision of interns, Junior Interpreters, and volunteers.\nPhysical and Environmental Demands:\nStand\n\nOccasionally\n\nWalk\n\nFrequently\n\nSit\n\nFrequently\n\nUse hands/fingers\n\nConstantly\n\nClimb or balance\n\nRarely\n\nStoop/kneel/crouch/crawl\n\nOccasionally\n\nReach with hands/arms\n\nOccasionally\n\nTalk or hear\n\nConstantly\n\nLifting up to 10 lbs.\n\nFrequently\n\nLifting up to 25 lbs.\n\nOccasionally\n\nLifting up to 50 lbs. (with assistance)\n\nOccasionally\n\nLifting up to 100 lbs. (with assistance)\n\nRarely\n\nMore than 100 lbs. (with assistance)\n\nRarely\n\nWet/humid conditions:\n\nOccasionally\n\nWork near moving mechanical parts:\n\nRarely\n\nFumes/airborne particles:\n\nConstantly\n\nExtreme cold:\n\nOccasionally\n\nExtreme heat:\n\nOccasionally\n\nRisk of electrical shock\n\nRarely\n\nDriving requirement:\n\nYes\n\nTypical Work Schedule:\n8.5 hours/day, 40 hours/week\nCompensation Disclaimer: The compensation listed below for this position represents the anticipated hiring range and is provided in accordance with Virginia pay transparency requirements. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as the selected candidate’s skills, qualifications, experience, education, certifications, internal equity, and the specific requirements of the role.\nRange: $18.50-$19.00 per hour\nEqual Opportunity Employer\nThis employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.","company":"Colonialwilliamsburgfoundation","rawCompany":"colonialwilliamsburgfoundation","city":"Williamsburg","state":"VA","isRemote":false,"isActive":false,"createdAt":"2026-08-06T16:58:02.179Z","occupations":[{"code":"39-5012.00","title":"Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists","slug":"hairdressers-hairstylists-and-cosmetologists"},{"code":"19-3093.00","title":"Historians","slug":"historians"},{"code":"39-5011.00","title":"Barbers","slug":"barbers"}],"industries":[{"code":"712120","title":"Historical Sites","slug":"historical-sites"},{"code":"712110","title":"Museums","slug":"museums"},{"code":"519210","title":"Libraries and Archives","slug":"libraries-and-archives"}],"jobPosting":{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"JobPosting","title":"Apprentice Wigmaker","description":"Who We Are\nFounded in 1926, the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation is a private, not-for-profit educational, historic, and cultural institution that owns and operates one of the largest and best-known museum complexes in the world. Our mission is “that the future may learn from the past” through preserving and restoring 18th-century Williamsburg, Virginia’s colonial capital. We engage, inform, and inspire people to learn about this historic capital, the events that occurred here, and the diverse peoples who helped shape a new nation.\nToday, Colonial Williamsburg is the largest living history museum in the U.S. The Historic Area is the 301-acre restored colonial capital with 88 original buildings and 525 buildings reconstructed to how they appeared in the 18th century through extensive archaeological, architectural, and documentary research. The Historic Area is staffed by highly trained, historically dressed interpreters and expert tradespeople who bring the 18th century to life. The Foundation also owns and operates two world-class museums, the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum, and the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum, and a renowned research library, the John D Rockefeller Jr Library.\nAbout the Position\nThe 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. Apprentices advance by mastering increasingly complex techniques, conducting and applying historical research, and effectively communicating the history, significance, and practice of the trade through public interpretation, instruction, and leadership. Advancement is measured through the successful completion of progressively challenging object-based reproductions, scholarly research projects, interpretive presentations, and the demonstrated ability to mentor others while contributing to the mission of preserving, perpetuating, and presenting the historic trades of Colonial Williamsburg.\nMain Duties\nResponsibilities include but are not limited to:\nHand Skills:\nDevelop proficiency in the eighteenth-century skills of the Wigmaker, Hairdresser, and Barber through completion of the apprenticeship curriculum and object-based reproductions.\nMaintain, style, fit, and care for the Foundation's collection of wigs and hairpieces for daily operations, performances, and special programs.\nCollaborate with other Historic Trades and Foundation departments on production projects supporting preservation and interpretive goals.\nFollow established safety and security procedures for the shop, tools, materials, equipment, and worksite.\nResearch:\nConduct historical research on the trade, its practitioners, and related topics to support craftsmanship and interpretation.\nPresent research findings through written reports, oral presentations, and interpretive programming.\nCollaborate with Foundation staff and external professionals to expand knowledge and develop new interpretive initiatives.\nParticipate in professional development opportunities, including travel for specialized research and training.\nInterpretation:\nProvide engaging, historically accurate interpretation of the trade, its history, techniques, and significance to diverse audiences.\nPlan and lead interpretive programs, demonstrations, seminars, workshops, and special events.\nInstruct Foundation staff and apprentices in the history, skills, and interpretation of the trade, and assist in developing training curriculum.\nDemonstrate exceptional hospitality, professionalism, and customer service while interacting with guests and colleagues.\nThis is a non-exempt position, eligible to receive overtime in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This position may be subject to overtime during high peak times, etc. as directed and approved by the supervisor.\nThis job description reflects the general responsibilities of the position and is not intended to be an exhaustive list. Duties and responsibilities may evolve over time based on operational needs.\nRequired Education and Experience:\nHigh school degree/G.E.D. with a general knowledge of 18th c. colonial history.\nMust possess a valid Commonwealth of Virginia driver’s license and have an acceptable driving record based on The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation’s criteria.\nMust be able to provide a 5-year Motor Vehicle Record prior to employment\nMust be at least 21 years of age\nMay not have more than 1 moving violation or at fault accident within 12 months\nMay not have more than 2 moving violations or at fault accidents within 36 months\nMay not have any serious motor vehicle violations including but not limited to excessive speeding, reckless driving, DUI/DWI, suspended or revoked license, etc.\nPreferred Qualifications:\nFour-year Degree in American History and/or successful completion or Certification from a Trade School with a concentration in handwork.\nKey Skills / Competencies:\nExcellent communication skills, verbal and written\nAbility to work in collaboration\nStrong knowledge of computer systems, including Microsoft 365\nProvide Excellent Customer Service to internal and external clients\nAbility to do research, learn, and teach different skills, varied hand skills usually gained through progressive work experience.\nAble to provide logical and creative solutions within a fast-paced environment\nAbility to work independently and with minimal direction, meeting deadlines and shifting priorities\nMust be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends.\nSupervisory Responsibilities:\nPossible supervision of interns, Junior Interpreters, and volunteers.\nPhysical and Environmental Demands:\nStand\n\nOccasionally\n\nWalk\n\nFrequently\n\nSit\n\nFrequently\n\nUse hands/fingers\n\nConstantly\n\nClimb or balance\n\nRarely\n\nStoop/kneel/crouch/crawl\n\nOccasionally\n\nReach with hands/arms\n\nOccasionally\n\nTalk or hear\n\nConstantly\n\nLifting up to 10 lbs.\n\nFrequently\n\nLifting up to 25 lbs.\n\nOccasionally\n\nLifting up to 50 lbs. (with assistance)\n\nOccasionally\n\nLifting up to 100 lbs. (with assistance)\n\nRarely\n\nMore than 100 lbs. (with assistance)\n\nRarely\n\nWet/humid conditions:\n\nOccasionally\n\nWork near moving mechanical parts:\n\nRarely\n\nFumes/airborne particles:\n\nConstantly\n\nExtreme cold:\n\nOccasionally\n\nExtreme heat:\n\nOccasionally\n\nRisk of electrical shock\n\nRarely\n\nDriving requirement:\n\nYes\n\nTypical Work Schedule:\n8.5 hours/day, 40 hours/week\nCompensation Disclaimer: The compensation listed below for this position represents the anticipated hiring range and is provided in accordance with Virginia pay transparency requirements. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as the selected candidate’s skills, qualifications, experience, education, certifications, internal equity, and the specific requirements of the role.\nRange: $18.50-$19.00 per hour\nEqual Opportunity Employer\nThis employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.","datePosted":"2026-08-06T16:58:02.179Z","dateModified":"2026-08-06T16:58:02.179Z","hiringOrganization":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Colonialwilliamsburgfoundation","sameAs":"https://jobsearcher.com"},"jobLocation":{"@type":"Place","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","addressLocality":"Williamsburg","addressRegion":"VA","addressCountry":"US"}},"identifier":{"@type":"PropertyValue","name":"JobSearcher","value":"da853312082005e375d4ff02"},"url":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/da853312082005e375d4ff02"}}