Construction Project Lead

Classification:       Part time (20 hours/week)

with the possibility of full time in 2026

Reports to:            Director of Preservation

Job Summary:       The Newport Restoration Foundation (NRF) is seeking a Construction Project Lead to oversee construction projects throughout the organization’s collection of 80 historic buildings. Projects will range from small-scale restoration work at the organization’s 18^th– and 19^th-century rental properties to large-scale restoration and rehabilitation projects at NRF’s public-facing sites. The Construction Project Lead will work closely on a regular basis with other members of the Preservation Department, including the Preservation Projects Manager and Property Care Manager. The position will have an office at Rough Point (680 Bellevue Avenue) as well as satellite workspaces at Vernon House (46 Clarke Street) and the organization’s carpentry/paint mill (62 Halsey Street).

Salary Range:        $36/hr – $38/hr

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Assist in overseeing subcontracted capital projects at the organization’s Preservation Properties such as exterior restorations, roof replacements, chimney repairs and caps, and foundation repairs from start to finish (e.g., defining scope, obtaining bids, scheduling contractors, reviewing mockups, and managing invoices and budget).
• Assist in providing capital project oversight at NRF’s public-facing historic properties (Rough Point, Vernon House, Prescott Farm, and Whitehorne House Museum).
  • Projects may be small and large, and include bricks-and-mortar preservation; mechanical, electrical, and plumbing; and/or general facilities’ upgrades.
  • At times, depending on scope, this may include serving as NRF’s on-the-ground site representative to coordinate contractors, ensure quality, monitor safety, etc.
• Work with staff, architects, engineers, etc. as needed to assess conditions (e.g., leaks, deterioration, etc.) and troubleshoot solutions.
• Ensure all work performed by subcontractors adheres to industry standards, safety, and preservation best practices.
• Develop and maintain a set of specifications for commonly performed work.
• Collaborate within the Department to inform and identify annual capital priorities and budgetary needs.
• Research and implement a construction management software that can be used for recording needs/projects, scheduling, and tracking progress.
• Apply for necessary project permits, as needed.
• Research appropriate preservation specifications, as needed.
• Monitor building conditions, as needed.
• Participate on NRF’s Safety Committee, as needed.
• Perform all other duties assigned by the Director of Preservation.

Required Skills:

• 3+ years in a project management role.
• 3+ years working directly with historic buildings.
• Working knowledge of construction methods (historic and modern), industry standards and best practices, and building pathologies.
• Understanding of the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.
• Ability to read architectural drawings.
• Excellent project management skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication (written and verbal) skills.
• Effective at working with third-party vendors such as contractors, architects, engineers, etc.
• Ability to work independently as well as an effective and enthusiastic team player.
• Flexible schedule when needed to accommodate contractor hours.
• Computer literate with proficiency in skills such as word processing, spreadsheets, PowerPoint, file organization, etc. Experience with database management and/or construction management software is preferred.
• Master’s degree in historic preservation, architecture, or related field.
• Possesses a valid state-issued driver’s license and dependable car.

The job description is meant to outline the role, but not define potential candidates. If you do not meet all the qualifications, but are enthusiastic about the work of NRF and this position, please apply!

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and résumé to maeve@newportrestoration.org. EOE. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.