Job posting: Textiles Conservator – British Museum (London, UK)

Closing date: Friday 14th October 2016 at 12:00 Noon
Reference: 1589219
Location: London
Salary: £25,872 per annum pro-rata
Contract: Fixed Term: 11 weeks from 9 January 2017 (Full time)


The British Museum has an exciting opportunity for an early-career textile conservator to join the Organic Artefacts Conservation Section for 11 weeks, in a role supported by the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST). The post holder will work closely with a senior textile conservator to investigate and conserve a rare 8th Century silk embroidery from the Chinese Tang dynasty.
As the Conservator: Textiles (QEST Associated Liveries Apprentice) you will carry out practical conservation treatment on the embroidery, whilst keeping an accurate record of the work undertaken. The successful candidate will also collaborate with staff in the Asia department and with external specialists on the treatment, display and storage of the embroidery and assist with expanding the profile of the Department by participating in Museum outreach programmes.
With a recognised professional qualification in textile conservation, the successful candidate will be IT literate, have a sound understanding of conservation theory and relevant knowledge of Health & Safety. You must also be able to pass a colour vision test.
We are looking for someone who is able to work independently and demonstrate excellent communication skills. In addition to this, the ideal candidate will have an excellent team working ability.
About the British Museum
Founded in 1753, the British Museum’s remarkable collection spans over two million years of human history and culture. With over 6.8 million visitors in 2015, the Museum is the top visitor attraction in the UK, and its world-famous collection includes the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures, Egyptian mummies, the Admonitions Scroll, and the Amaravati sculptures.
The Museum adheres to the HMG Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) requirements for all staff at the British Museum.
The Museum is an equal opportunity employer, supports a diverse workplace and offers a competitive benefits package including:

  • Membership of the civil service pension scheme
  • Free entry to a wide range of museums and exhibitions
  • Participate in private and public Museum activities, including talks by leading curators from around the world and behind-the-scenes opportunities to learn how museums care for and manage their extraordinary collections
  • Generous annual leave allowance
  • Interest-free season ticket loan
  • Child care voucher scheme
  • Professional and personal development opportunities
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Discounts on food and gift shop purchases
    If you are a positive individual, passionate about the Museum and would like to know more about this exciting opportunity, please follow the “Apply now” link below where you will be directed to complete your application.
    Interviews will be held on either 28 October or 1 November 2016.
    For more information visit: Conservator: Textiles (QEST Associated Liveries Apprentice)


    If you have any queries regarding this role, email us at bm@penna.comor call +44 0845 601 1124. Please quote the job reference number in the subject line of any email and at the beginning of a call.