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Preservationist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Perform aseptic organ preservation, including flushing, packaging, and labeling organs, vessels, and tissuetyping materials in accordance with Organ Procurement & Transplantation Network (OPTN ...

Organ Preservationist

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Perform aseptic organ preservation, including flushing, packaging, and labeling organs, vessels, and tissue-typing materials in accordance with Organ Procurement & Transplantation Network (OPTN ...

Organ Preservationist

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$18 - $22.50/hr

Perform aseptic organ preservation, including flushing, packaging, and labeling organs, vessels, and tissue-typing materials in accordance with Organ Procurement & Transplantation Network (OPTN ...

Historical Preservation Opening Date: June 16, 2026 Closing Date: July 1, 2026 Grade/ Admin Unit: 26 / Professional/Technical Job Class Code: 9244 Salary: $56,264.00- $78,998.40/Annually Position ...

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Preservationist information

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$15

$29

$48

How much do preservationist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for preservationist in the United States is $29.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $35.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying conservation job?

The highest paying conservation jobs are often senior roles such as Conservation Director or Chief Conservator, which require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership skills. These positions typically offer salaries exceeding $80,000 annually, especially in private sector or large organizations, and may involve specialized knowledge of environmental policies, project management, and funding acquisition.

What is the difference between Preservationist vs Conservator?

AspectPreservationistConservator
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in conservation, preservation, or related field; certifications varyRequires specialized training in conservation techniques; often holds certifications in conservation
Work EnvironmentHistoric sites, museums, archives, or cultural institutionsLaboratories, museums, or conservation studios
Industry UsageUsed broadly for those maintaining and protecting cultural heritageMore specialized, focusing on restoring and repairing artifacts
Search & ComparisonOften compared for roles involving preservation and maintenance of cultural assetsCompared when discussing artifact restoration and detailed conservation work

While both Preservationists and Conservators work to protect cultural heritage, Preservationists focus on maintaining and preventing deterioration of artifacts, often in a broader context. Conservators specialize in restoring and repairing artifacts through detailed conservation techniques. The roles overlap but differ mainly in scope and technical focus.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Preservationists typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive roles, specialized medical fields, or high-level corporate positions. Certain professions like surgeons, anesthesiologists, or CEOs may reach or exceed this income level with experience and advanced credentials. Salary potential depends on industry, location, experience, and the level of responsibility involved.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Preservationist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Preservationist, you need a solid background in historic preservation, architecture, or related fields, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with documentation standards, preservation technologies, and regulatory frameworks like the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards is crucial. Strong research, project management, and communication skills help Preservationists collaborate with stakeholders and advocate for preservation projects. These abilities are vital for protecting cultural heritage, ensuring compliance, and successfully managing restoration or conservation efforts.

What are some common challenges Preservationists face when working on historic sites?

Preservationists often encounter challenges such as balancing the need to maintain historical integrity with modern safety codes and accessibility requirements. They may also face difficulties sourcing authentic materials or techniques to match original construction, especially for older or rare structures. Coordinating with multiple stakeholders—such as local governments, property owners, and community groups—can require strong communication and negotiation skills. Navigating funding constraints and securing grants for restoration projects is another frequent challenge in the field.

What are preservationists?

Preservationists are professionals who work to protect, conserve, and restore historic buildings, sites, artifacts, and landscapes. Their goal is to maintain the cultural, architectural, and historical significance of these places for future generations. Preservationists may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private firms, and their tasks can include research, documentation, advocacy, and hands-on restoration. They often collaborate with architects, historians, and community members to develop plans that balance preservation with modern needs.

How do I become a preservationist?

To become a preservationist, typically a bachelor's degree in history, archaeology, conservation, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions, developing skills in conservation techniques and documentation, and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects. Knowledge of preservation tools and materials is also beneficial.

What skills do you need for preservation jobs?

Preservationists need strong attention to detail, knowledge of conservation techniques, and familiarity with handling delicate materials. Skills in research, documentation, and the use of specialized tools are also important, along with good organizational and communication abilities. Certifications in conservation or related fields can enhance job prospects.
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What states have the most Preservationist jobs? States with the most job openings for Preservationist jobs include:

$28.45/hr

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Help preserve America's historic treasures.

This position performs skilled preservation trade work to maintain, repair, restore, and preserve historic structures, buildings, monuments, and cultural landscapes. Duties include masonry, carpentry, woodcrafting, painting, roofing, gardening, and preservation servicing while applying historic preservation methods, standards, and techniques.

To find out more about the agency visit National Park Service.

Qualifications:Selective Placement Factor: This position requires a current, valid state-issued driver's license. This requirement is a selective placement factor and will be used as a screen-out. Applicants must possess this requirement by the closing date of the announcement. The selectee will be required to provide proof prior to appointment. Applicants who do not possess this requirement will be found ineligible for further consideration.
OPM's Job Qualifications System for Trades and Labor Occupations will be used to determine qualifications. There is no specific length of training or experience required. However, applicants must demonstrate through experience shown in their resume that they possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to successfully perform the duties of the position without more than normal supervision.
To qualify for this position, your resume must demonstrate you possess sufficient knowledge and ability in the following job elements:
1. Ability to do the work of the position without more than normal supervision [screen out element]
2. Knowledge of equipment assembly, installation, repair, etc
3. Technical practices (theoretical, precise, artistic)
4. Use of measuring instruments
5. Ability to interpret instructions, specifications, etc (includes blueprinting reading)
6. Ability to use and maintain tools and equipment
7. Knowledge of materials
If your knowledge and ability in the screen-out element are not sufficient, you will receive no further consideration for this position. Your resume must clearly describe the experience and training that demonstrate your ability to perform the duties of the position. Qualification determinations will be based solely on the information provided in your application materials. Human Resources will not make assumptions regarding your experience based on job titles alone.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:There is no substitution of education for experience for Wage Grade (WG) positions.Employment Type: OTHER