Although developing a career in historic building conservation can sometimes be challenging, it can lead to hugely satisfying and varied work. Many job roles rely on a particular skill set and often require specific training or qualifications.

The types of jobs available in historic building conservation can be broadly categorised as follows:

• Specialists, e.g. building surveyors, architects, conservators, engineers, conservation officers, building archaeologists, consultants, caseworkers, estate/facilities managers etc.
• Crafts, e.g. masons, carpenters, plasterers, roofers, bricklayers, thatchers, ironworkers, glaziers, timber framers etc.
• Support, e.g. project management and administration, HR and finance, fundraising and grants, education and training, PR and Communications, Media and IT, visitor services, volunteer management etc.
• Education, training and research, e.g. researchers and buildings/material scientists, lecturers, tutors on training courses, education staff at heritage sites etc.

Women in conservation: career advice from The SPAB on Vimeo.