Share this job
Director of Preservation and Facilities
Shelburne Museum
Shelburne, VT
Apply for this job


  • Position Type: Full-time, Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

  • Reports to: Chief Executive Officer

  • Salary Range: $85,000–$100,000 annually


The Source and Recruit Company has been exclusively retained by Shelburne Museum, a premier destination for American art, design, and history, to assist in the recruitment of a Director of Preservation and Facilities. All inquiries will be held in strict confidence.


About Shelburne Museum

Located in Shelburne, Vermont, Shelburne Museum is home to one of the most diverse collections of art, Americana, and architecture in the United States. Spanning 45 acres, the museum showcases 40 historic buildings including houses, barns, a covered bridge, a lighthouse, and the steamboat Ticonderoga, all carefully relocated to the grounds and preserved to tell the story of American life. The museum is nationally renowned for its commitment to preservation and its unique campus that blends art, architecture, and the natural environment.


Role Overview

The Director of Preservation and Facilities plays a pivotal leadership role in safeguarding the museum’s extensive historic structures and physical assets. This position is ideal for a seasoned preservationist with strong leadership capabilities and a hands-on approach. This individual will develop and implement strategic preservation plans, oversee facilities maintenance and restoration projects, and ensure all initiatives align with both institutional priorities and best practices in historic preservation.

This is a key position that works collaboratively with cross-functional teams, external contractors, and regulatory bodies to steward the campus’s built environment and heritage resources.


Key Responsibilities

  • Lead the development and execution of preservation and facilities plans that support the museum’s mission and long-term strategic goals.

  • Assess the condition of structures and prioritize immediate and long-term restoration needs.

  • Manage all aspects of facilities projects including planning, contractor oversight, documentation, and compliance with historical regulations.

  • Participate directly in hands-on restoration work as needed.

  • Create and manage project budgets, timelines, and reports; ensure projects are executed efficiently and within scope.

  • Collaborate with the Development team to support grant writing and fundraising efforts related to capital and preservation projects.

  • Provide technical guidance on architectural preservation methodologies and materials.

  • Document preservation initiatives, including assessments, plans, and outcomes.

  • Oversee the Museum Services and Buildings teams, including full-time, seasonal, and volunteer staff.

  • Support institutional sustainability goals through building maintenance and facilities planning.


Qualifications

  • An advanced degree in historic preservation, architecture, history, or a related discipline is strongly preferred; a bachelor's degree with significant relevant experience will also be considered.

  • Minimum of 7 years of experience in historic preservation or architectural restoration.

  • Demonstrated ability to manage and lead multidisciplinary teams, including full-time and seasonal staff.

  • Hands-on experience in historic building restoration and familiarity with construction practices.

  • Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple concurrent projects.

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a collaborative, team-oriented approach.

  • Comfortable engaging with stakeholders and representing preservation initiatives to public and professional audiences.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and relevant preservation or facilities software.


Physical Requirements

This role requires the ability to work both indoors and outdoors in variable weather conditions. Must be capable of walking the museum’s 45-acre campus and accessing historic structures, which may have limited accessibility. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.


Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage

  • Life Insurance, AD&D, and short/long-term disability coverage

  • Generous paid time off (including PTO, birthday leave, and community service hours)

  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer match and Safe Harbor contributions after one year

  • Free museum access for immediate family members

  • Employee discounts at the museum store and café


Equal Opportunity Statement

Shelburne Museum and The Source and Recruit Company are equal opportunity employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression, or any other characteristic protected by law.



Apply for this job
Powered by