Field Manager - Historic Preservation

Company Summary

Vintage Glass Works is an award-winning full-service historic restoration firm that specializes in the restoration, recreation or fabrication of stained & leaded glass window units, historic wood & steel windows, historic doors & entrance systems, wood & copper gutter systems, historic millwork, moulding and trim, and architectural features. We performed all work internally and this work occurs in both shop and field environments.

Position Summary

The Field Manager is responsible for directing and coordinating field operations related to the restoration, installation, repair, preservation, and maintenance of stained-glass windows, historic windows & doors, architectural features, and other ornamental features in churches, historic buildings, museums, and institutional properties. The Field Manager ensures projects are completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with preservation standards, project specifications, quality requirements, and client expectations.

This position combines hands-on restoration expertise with field leadership responsibilities, including crew supervision, project coordination, safety compliance, quality control, and client communication.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Project Supervision

• Direct and supervise field crews engaged in the installation, restoration, repair, and maintenance of stained-glass windows, historic doors & windows and architectural features.
• Coordinate daily work activities to ensure projects remain on schedule and within budget.
• Interpret architectural drawings, specifications, shop drawings, and restoration plans.
• Conduct site inspections and evaluate existing conditions prior to and during project execution.
• Ensure all work complies with project specifications, preservation standards, and applicable building codes.

Historic Restoration Activities

• Oversee removal, transportation, protection, repair, and reinstallation of stained-glass windows or historic windows & doors.
• Monitor shop restoration activities to ensure the schedules of shop & site requirements align for stained glass, window, and door restoration sequences.
• Direct field restoration and installation of restored windows & doors, onsite opening restoration, architectural feature restoration and/or installation, and ornamental woodwork.
• Monitor conservation practices to preserve historic materials and architectural integrity.
• Coordinate specialty subcontractors when required.

Safety and Compliance

• Promote and enforce company safety policies and OSHA requirements.
• Conduct jobsite safety meetings
• Identify and mitigate workplace hazards, particularly those involving scaffolding, lifts, rigging, fall protection, and material handling.
• Ensure proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Maintain site documentation related to safety inspections and incidents.

Quality Assurance

• Inspect completed work to verify adherence to restoration standards and project requirements.
• Maintain high standards of craftsmanship and attention to historic detail.
• Resolve field issues affecting quality, schedule, or project outcomes.
• Coordinate punch-list completion and project closeout activities.

Client and Stakeholder Relations

• Serve as the primary field contact for clients, clergy, facility managers, architects, preservation consultants, and contractors.
• Provide project updates and communicate schedule changes.
• Represent the company professionally at all times.
• Assist in documenting project progress through photographs and written reports.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Maintain daily jobsite reports and project documentation.
• Track labor hours, materials, equipment usage, and subcontractor activities.
• Assist with estimating and project planning activities.
• Coordinate delivery and storage of materials and equipment.
• Support project budgeting and cost control efforts.

Required Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate's degree, technical training, apprenticeship, or equivalent experience in construction, historic preservation, restoration, or related field preferred.

Experience

• Five (5) or more years of experience in construction, restoration, woodworking, stained glass restoration, or related trades.
• Minimum two (2) years of supervisory or crew leadership experience preferred.
• Experience working in churches, historic structures, or preservation projects highly desirable.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of stained-glass restoration techniques and materials.
• Knowledge of decorative and architectural woodworking practices.
• Understanding of historic preservation principles and conservation methods.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and digital project documentation tools.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to climb ladders, scaffolding, and aerial lifts.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 75 pounds.
• Ability to work at heights and in confined spaces.
• Ability to perform physically demanding work for extended periods.
• Ability to travel to project locations and work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Licenses and Certifications

• Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
• OSHA 10-Hour Certification required; OSHA 30-Hour preferred.
• First Aid/CPR certification preferred.
• Lift and scaffold certifications preferred.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in active construction, restoration, church, institutional, and historic building environments. Projects may require extensive travel, overnight stays, weekend work, or flexible scheduling to accommodate client needs and building occupancy requirements.

Performance Expectations

Success in this position is measured by:

• Safe completion of projects.
• Adherence to schedules and budgets.
• Quality of restoration craftsmanship.
• Client satisfaction.
• Preservation of historic materials and architectural features.
• Effective supervision and development of field personnel.