The reader may finish them not only entertained, but with an appreciation for the difficulties and complexities of conservation and conservation science

Recently, I read two novels which feature conservators—“Triple Take. A Museum Story”, by Robert Barclay, former senior conservator at the Canadian Conservation Institute and “The Last Painting of Sara De Vos”, by Dominic Smith, a novelist who looked to Stephen Gritt, Director of Conservation at the National Gallery of Canada for “insights into the technical aspects of conservation and restoration”. In each novel, the technical descriptions are the most accurate and believable aspects of the story.
Just two examples. In “Museum Story”, the senior conservator at the Canadian Museum of Personkind uses vacuum impregnation to treat a wooden rattle that had been badly damaged by insects. “For objects in this condition, soaking with resins in solution under laboratory conditions is essential. But it takes a good deal of courage. Stephanie (the conservator) was only too aware that she was about to alter permanently a museum object and do something to it that was potentially dangerous to its future wellbeing. There would be no going back.” In “The Last Painting of Sara De Vos”, Dr. Helen Birch, the conservation scientist at the Art Gallery of New South Wales has studied and analyzed three paintings, one of which the reader knows to be a forgery. Birch instructs the curator (who was the forger of the painting forty years earlier) about the manufacture and use of lead tin yellow and then says, “When I run the elemental analysis on the one on the left, study the gritty yellows, it show a fair amount of silica dioxide—the main ingredient in sand. Whoever made this one used sand to try to get the same textured feel, but the metal soaps give it away. There are no lead soaps in the fake from Leiden.”
The reader who begins these books looking for light entertainment may finish them not only entertained but with an appreciation for the difficulties and complexities of conservation and conservation science.

Jobs Digest: May 26, 2017

  1. Book Conservator, Oxford Conservation Consortium
  2. Library/Archive Conservator, Oxford Conservation Consortium
  3. Collections Manager, East Carolina University
  4. Conservation and Design Officer, Development Management – Royal Borough Of Kensington and Chelsea
  5. Associate Conservator of Paintings, Philadelphia Museum of Art
  6. Audio Preservation Engineer, Northeast Document Conservation Center
  7. Special Collections Librarian, University of Virginia School of Law
  8. Book Conservator, Northeast Document Conservation Center
  9. Head, Archival Collections Management, New York University, Division of Libraries
  10. Archives & Special Collections Internship, Santa Clara University
  11. Digitization Project Manager, University of Georgia Libraries
  12. Firearms Conservation Technician (Fall 2017 Internship, Great Basin Institute/National Park Service
  13. Collections Care Assistant – Health Pamphlets Project (Part-Time), The New York Academy of Medicine
  14. Assistant/Associate Objects Conservator, American Museum of Natural History
  15. Project Conservator (W/ Benefits), Saint Louis Art Museum
  16. Project Conservator (W/O Benefits), Saint Louis Art Museum
  17. Assistant or Associate Paintings Conservator, Saint Louis Art Museum
  18. Assistant/ Associate/ Paper Conservator, Saint Louis Art Museum
  19. Paintings Conservator, ARTEX Fine Art Services
  20. Senior Conservator/Project Manager, Conservation Solutions Inc.
  21. Objects/ Sculpture Conservator, Rosa Lowinger & Associates Conservation Inc.

1. BOOK CONSERVATOR, Oxford Conservation Consortium (Oxford UK)

  • Application closing date: May 25, 2017 at 12:00 noon
  • Contract type: Full time, permanent
  • Salary: University of Oxford pay scale grade 5, GBP24,565 – GBP32,004 commensurate with experience

Oxford Conservation Consortium (OCC) seeks a highly motivated and experienced book conservator to work on the special collections of its members. OCC is a small but busy conservation studio providing collection care to its 16 members, all colleges of the University of Oxford with library and archive collections of national importance. The post holder will assist with the assessment of the preservation and conservation needs of OCC members, and the implementation of work programs, including carrying out conservation treatments on a wide range of book/archive objects.

For further particulars and application form, visit: www.magd.ox.ac.uk/job-vacancies.


2. LIBRARY/ARCHIVE CONSERVATOR, Oxford Conservation Consortium (Oxford, UK)

  • Application closing date: May 25, 2017 at 12:00 noon
  • Contract type: Maternity cover, 1 year fixed term, full time
  • Salary: University of Oxford pay scale grade 4, GBP21,220 – GBP 26,829 commensurate with experience

Oxford Conservation Consortium (OCC) has a job opportunity for a conservator of library and archive materials wishing to start their career in a busy conservation studio, and to gain exposure to a broad range of collections, tasks, and techniques. OCC provides collection care to 16 members, all colleges of the University of Oxford with library and archive collections of national importance. The post holder will assist with the delivery of conservation and preservation work programs, including carrying out interventive treatments on a wide range of book/archive objects.

For further particulars and application form, see: www.magd.ox.ac.uk/job-vacancies.


3. COLLECTIONS MANAGER, East Carolina University (Greenville, NC, USA)

  • Closing Date: May 26, 2017
  • Vacancy #002633
  • Salary Range: $25,900-$43,334
  • This is a time limited 1-3-year position
  • Salary Grade Equivalent: 61 (for reduction-in-force priority purposes only)

This position would work with both the Country Doctor Museum and the Laupus Library historical objects.

The first priority project the employee would be to catalog all Laupus artifacts in rediscovery: Proficio.

This would enable the library employees to search for artifacts relevant for particular research interests and to effectively maintain records of these objects in an inventory system. This person would work with the Head of History Collections on ensuring the metadata is sufficient for export for ECU Libraries web presences.

Additional work would include:

  • completing Laupus laboratory safety training (potential to serve as Lab Manager)
  • selecting conservation supplies for Head of History Collections to work to procure
  • performing light conservation treatments on objects or recommending de-accession or outsourcing of more extensive treatments to History Collections Librarian, Head of History Collections, and Curator of Country Doctor Museum
  • preparing artifacts for exhibit, recommending (and maintaining approved) ideal long-term preservation conditions for artifacts
  • completing research on artifacts (including patent information, use of the artifact, and timeline of when the artifact was created and used, and any information related to provenance)
  • working on developing a policy for object loans with Head of History Collections
  • photographing objects
  • composing online posts on the objects for social media and/or the library website

The employee would do the same for Country Doctor Museum. Their primary work with the CDM would be to start:

  • preparing artifacts for exhibit
  • ensuring adequate storage environments
  • working with Laupus Library to order supplies needed for preservation and conservation of these materials
  • Additional projects related to the objects can be completed as approved and as time permits.

Minimum Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalency and two years of experience in library services, office support, or related field; or equivalent combination of training and experience.

Preferred Education and Experience: BA in Anthropology, Archaeology, Public History, or related field and experience in describing and/or cataloging objects is preferred.

Completion of conservation coursework and/or volunteer or paid field or museum artifact conservation experience is desired. Ability to lift at least 25 lbs, and have a valid NC driver’s license is preferred.

Special instructions to applicants: this is a time limited 1-3-year position.

This position is subject to the Career Banding Salary Administration Plan. If candidates are not identified at the Journey level, management may consider candidates at a lower competency level. Pay will be commensurate with applicant’s competencies as well as budget, equity, and market considerations.
Additional Instructions to Applicants: Applicants must complete a candidate profile or staff application (see “Application Types Accepted” below) online via the PeopleAdmin system. In addition, applicants must submit the documents requested in order to be considered for the position.

Application Types Accepted:

  • Application (SHRA and CSS only)
  • Applications must be received in the Department of Human Resources by the closing date to be considered. Please submit an online ECU application for vacancy # 002633 to ECU Human Resources at jobs.ecu.edu

Visit this job posting at https://ecu.peopleadmin.com/applicants/Central?quickFind=86061.

East Carolina University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.


4. CONSERVATION AND DESIGN OFFICER, Development Management – Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (London, UK)

  • Closing date: June 9, 2017
  • Ref No. 2833
  • Temporary full time contract
  • Salary: £28,845 to £32,964

Documents: C&D Officer – JD & Person Spec 141224.docx.

Opportunities like this do not come up very often. The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea has an international brand with a unique reputation. Unmatched built heritage including more than 4000 listed buildings and 38 conservation areas sit alongside thriving iconic retail centers, a vibrant specialist employment market, an international medical quarter and world class cultural attractions. We are home to wealthy areas, but also to some of the most deprived wards in London.

We are seeking a qualified and experienced Conservation and Design Officer to join the Development Management and Conservation Team to cover 1 year’s maternity leave. The role will include providing expert advice to the development management team, as well as handling a caseload of listed building consent applications.

You should be able to demonstrate sound judgement, have a flexible approach to problem solving and capable of dealing with a wide variety of situations working within a team as part of a larger department. You must have a relevant qualification, although those looking to graduate in 2017 will be considered, excellent communication and negotiation skills, as well as being enthusiastic and committed.

This is an ideal opportunity to experience the fast-paced work of a London borough within an experienced and supportive team. Flexible working and the opportunity to work from home are included as part of RBKC’s commitment to work life balance.

For an informal discussion about the post, please contact Beverley Kuchar, on +44 020 7745 6730 or at beverley.kuchar@rbkc.gov.uk.

To apply, visit: https://jobs.westminster.gov.uk/vacancy/conservation-and-design-officer-development-management-315073.html.


5. ASSOCIATE CONSERVATOR OF PAINTINGS, Philadelphia Museum of Art (Philadelphia, PA, USA)

  • Application Deadline: July 15, 2017

The Philadelphia Museum of Art seeks to fill the position of Associate Conservator of Paintings. Qualified candidates will have academic credentials from a recognized conservation training program and specialized experience beyond the degree in the study, care, and treatment of paintings. This position requires significant museum experience in the typical range of conservation activities involved in optimal preservation and presentation of a large and varied paintings collection, in the support of active loan and exhibition programs, and in cooperative work with staff at large to meet departmental and institutional goals.

Reporting to the Senior Conservator of Paintings, the Associate Conservator has direct responsibility for conservation of a renowned and growing collection of paintings spanning many cultures and curatorial departments. Candidates must possess outstanding visual and manual aptitudes, strong written and oral communication skills, a sound art-historical and technical knowledge of painting, and demonstrated ability to deal with the complexities and dynamic pace of a large cultural institution.

Duties include:

  • Examination, integrated technical and historical study, documentation, and treatment of paintings in the collection
  • Assessing condition of paintings requested for loan or being considered for acquisition, and documentation of the condition of incoming or outgoing loans
  • Advising on installations, storage, handling, packing, and transport of paintings
  • Working with conservation scientists in chemical and instrumental analysis and characterization of materials and construction of works of art
  • Supervising and instructing conservation junior staff, post-graduate fellows, interns, and technicians
  • Promoting awareness of the role and work of the museum’s Conservation Department, in part through developing content for public outreach

Apply at: www.philamuseum.org/jobs.

Applications should include pdf files containing a statement of interest, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three professional references familiar with the candidate’s critical judgment, treatment work, and interpersonal and organizational skills. The recruitment system allows multiple attachments with your application.

Questions may be directed to Teresa A. Lignelli, The Aronson Senior Conservator of Paintings, tlignelli@philamuseum.org.


6. AUDIO PRESERVATION ENGINEER, Northeast Document Conservation Center (Andover, MA, USA)

The Northeast Document Conservation Center (NEDCC) is expanding its digital audio preservation service for libraries, archives, and museums. This service builds upon NEDCC’s successful implementation of “IRENE,” the IMLS-funded optical scanning technology developed by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and the Library of Congress for digitizing grooved audio carriers. NEDCC is investing in the additional facilities, equipment, and staffing to offer reformatting of audio content on magnetic and other obsolete media using more traditional approaches. NEDCC acknowledges the generous support of The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation for underwriting both the audio business planning for, and the implementation of, its full audio preservation service.

Position Summary: NEDCC is seeking an experienced audio preservation professional to serve on its expanded Audio Preservation Services team. The new Audio Preservation Engineer will use both the IRENE technology and traditional methods for digitally reformatting obsolete audio carriers, such as analog tapes, digital audio tapes, discs, cylinders, and unusual formats (e.g., tin foils, Dictabelts, etc.). NEDCC’s service will help fill a much-needed niche of providing 1:1 transfers with 100% quality control, particularly for those highly-valued collections that deserve a specialized (rather than high-throughput) workflow. Because NEDCC is a conservation center, its service will also place emphasis on the preservation of the carrier as well as its audio contents. In addition to digitization, NEDCC will offer collection- and item-level surveys, cleaning, treatment, and re-housing using vetted and transparent (i.e., non-proprietary) approaches.

Responsibilities: The Audio Preservation Engineer reports directly to the Manager of Audio Preservation Services, and is responsible for:

  • rigorously following best practices for digital audio preservation of degrading media on highly obsolete formats;
  • identifying legacy carriers and their formatting and playback characteristics;
  • cleaning, repairing, stabilizing and re-housing of original carriers;
  • performing post-processing functions consistent with best archival practice;
  • strictly following quality control procedures;
  • carefully aligning/calibrating playback machines;
  • regularly verifying signal chain performance;
  • collecting extensive data on both the source recordings and the transfer process for project documentation;
  • achieving quality and productivity goals;
  • updating daily production data in NEDCC’s workflow tracking software;
  • collaborating with colleagues to continuously improve quality and workflows; and
  • staying abreast of the latest developments in the audio preservation field by maintaining membership in professional and related associations such as IASA, AES, and ARSC.

Qualifications: Applicants should have:

  1. Bachelor’s degree in audio engineering, audio production, or related field;
  2. detailed knowledge of, and hands-on experience in, all aspects of digitally preserving audio collections;
  3. knowledge of legacy audio formats;
  4. ability to perform basic maintenance and calibration of current and obsolete audio playback equipment;
  5. excellent listening skills;
  6. meticulous attention to detail;
  7. demonstrated ability to work under deadlines in a production-oriented environment; and
  8. exceptional problem-solving skills.

It is anticipated that the Audio Preservation Services department will receive an increasingly steady amount of work from large to small institutions as well as private clients whose primary concerns are quality of deliverables and care in handling. The department is projected to grow to full capacity over a three- to five-year timeline and be able to accommodate projects of most sizes and any complexity. In addition to the services referenced above, NEDCC will continue to explore and develop other specialty services to meet the needs of the library, archives, and museum communities. About NEDCC Founded in 1973, NEDCC is the first independent conservation laboratory in the United States to specialize exclusively in treating collections made of paper or parchment, such as works of art, books, photographs, maps, manuscripts, etc.

Application Process NEDCC is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Salary and benefits are competitive. This position will remain open until filled. To apply, please send cover letter and resume in PDF to Bryce Roe, Manager of Audio Preservation Services, at broe@nedcc.org.


7. SPECIAL COLLECTIONS LIBRARIAN, University of Virginia School of Law (Charlottesville, VA, USA)

  •  Review of applications will begin on June 1, 2017

The Law Library at the University of Virginia School of Law seeks a Librarian to shape the future of its Special Collections and further the Library’s mission of preserving and interpreting the history of the School of Law. The Special Collections Librarian will work within the Library’s diverse collection of rare books and historical manuscripts and archives of the UVA Law School to ensure their preservation, and will develop strategies that maintain Special Collections’ role in advancing the current and future scholarly needs of the Law School, and expanding and preserving the history of the Law School community. The Special Collections Librarian will act as a connection point between the Law School, its faculty, and its alumni by working to acquire new, relevant collections from faculty and other community members while ensuring their shared access to the history of the institution.

The Special Collections Librarian will participate in collecting, processing, organizing, preserving, digitizing, and making accessible collections of photographs, manuscripts, and rare books. The Librarian will play a lead role in setting priorities for digitizing and processing archival materials. The Librarian will develop and improve the digital tools and user interfaces of the library’s online collections; will lead the Library’s efforts to promote Special Collections materials and projects and the Law School’s history by publishing including scholarly publications, blogs and social media, exhibitions, and online. The Librarian will be the liaison to the larger library community regarding the acquisition, description, and preservation of rare materials.

Required qualifications include an ALA-accredited Master’s degree in information/library science, or graduate degree in archival studies, history, law, or a related field with library or archives experience; prior experience in special collections and/or archives; commitment to public services and user-centered reference and instructional services; ability to supervise, mentor, and train special collections and archives personnel; knowledge of current practice and research in archival management policies and procedures; assistance with grant writing, donor relations, and collection solicitation; excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to work effectively with culturally diverse library users and colleagues; excellent archival-based research skills and synthesis of archival materials into historical writing; ability to speak about a range of library issues including scholarly communication, digital initiatives, and the use of online tools; demonstrated project management, organizational, analytical, and problem solving skills; ability to work collaboratively with faculty, reference librarians, special collections staff, and others.

Preferred qualifications include a relevant, terminal degree, particularly Law or History; history of peer-reviewed publications in professional journals; demonstrated use of technology to advance teaching and learning with special collections materials; understanding of issues pertaining to the collection and dissemination of institutional histories; ability to apply basic principles of website design, database management, and standards-based metadata.

Apply on-line at http://jobs.virginia.edu (Posting Number 0620954). Include a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references. Review of applications will begin on June 1, 2017; however, the position will remain open until filled.

Required qualifications include an ALA-accredited Master’s degree in information/library science, or graduate degree in archival studies, history, law, or a related field with library or archives experience; prior experience in special collections and/or archives; commitment to public services and user-centered reference and instructional services; ability to supervise, mentor, and train special collections and archives personnel; knowledge of current practice and research in archival management policies and procedures; assistance with grant writing, donor relations, and collection solicitation; excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to work effectively with culturally diverse library users and colleagues; excellent archival-based research skills and synthesis of archival materials into historical writing; ability to speak about a range of library issues including scholarly communication, digital initiatives, and the use of online tools; demonstrated project management, organizational, analytical, and problem solving skills; ability to work collaboratively with faculty, reference librarians, special collections staff, and others.

Preferred qualifications include a relevant, terminal degree, particularly Law or History; history of peer-reviewed publications in professional journals; demonstrated use of technology to advance teaching and learning with special collections materials; understanding of issues pertaining to the collection and dissemination of institutional histories; ability to apply basic principles of website design, database management, and standards-based metadata.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, veterans and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.


8. BOOK CONSERVATOR, Northeast Document Conservation Center (Andover, MA, USA)

Note: Although there are no positions currently available in NEDCC’s Book Conservation lab, we are always interested in connecting with qualified book conservators in anticipation of future openings. Please don’t hesitate to send a letter of interest and CV, and contact us with any questions you may have.

 The Northeast Document Conservation Center (NEDCC) seeks an innovative and creative Conservator to join its Book Conservation Lab. Reporting to the Director of Book Conservation, the Conservator will perform conservation of diverse and unique bound materials held by NEDCC’s institutional and private clients, including printed books and pamphlets, bound manuscripts, scrapbooks, atlases, record books and photograph albums. Responsibilities include performing all conservation activities including examination of objects and development of conservation proposals; documentation; treatment of text blocks and bindings; consulting with clients; and assisting with assessments and educational programs. All work is performed according to the Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice of the American Institute for the Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works.

Required qualifications: A knowledge of physical, mechanical and chemical nature of books and paper as evidenced by graduate degree in conservation or related field of study; knowledge of book and paper conservation principles and practices; an understanding of preservation principles and their relation to treatment options; ability to work independently and collaboratively; ability to work in a productive environment; meticulous attention to detail; documentation skills; excellent written and oral communication skills; and creativity and enthusiasm. Preferred qualifications: Demonstrated ability to contribute to the profession through teaching, research and/or publication. The successful candidate will be joining a team of experienced and productive book conservators, and will benefit from working alongside imaging specialists and conservators in other specialties dedicated to the care of books and collections of significance and value.

For more information, please visit www.nedcc.org. Only persons with the legal right to work in the United States are eligible. Salary will be commensurate with experience. NEDCC is an equal opportunity employer. This position will remain open until filled.

Application Process To apply, please send resume, letter of intent, and names and contact information for three references in PDF format to: Mary Patrick Bogan, Director of Book Conservation, mpbogan@nedcc.org.


9. HEAD, ARCHIVAL COLLECTIONS MANAGEMENT, New York University, Division of Libraries

New York University Libraries seeks a collaborative and knowledgeable manager to serve as the Head of Archival Collections Management (ACM), leading a unified archival technical processing unit that supports acquisition, collection management, description, and discovery needs across the NYU special collections in New York. The successful candidate will combine demonstrated technical processing and management experience with substantial knowledge of standards and practices for preserving, processing, describing, and providing access to archival collections in archival and special collections library settings.

Reporting to the Associate Dean for Knowledge Access and Resource Management Services (KARMS) and in close collaboration with the Associate Dean for Collections and Research Services, the Head of ACM is a key senior managerial position within KARMS, within the Special Collections management team, and within the Libraries’ Department Managers Group. The position provides leadership, vision, strategic direction, and expertise for a core staff of 3 FTE professionals, with additional grant-funded staff varying over time (currently 10 FTE), and 4 FTE student workers. The staff is responsible for archival accessioning, arrangement, and description; functional ownership of systems for archival collection management and discovery; and acquiring and managing contemporary born-digital archival materials. The incumbent will closely collaborate with colleagues across the Division of Libraries, especially in the Special Collections, Preservation, and Digital Library Technology Services (DLTS) departments. Librarians are expected to serve as partners in the educational mission of NYU by establishing strong relationships with faculty and students, and providing responsive and innovative information services.

Responsibilities: Under the general supervision of the Associate Dean for Knowledge Access and Resource Management Services, the successful candidate will:

  • Serve as the department head for ACM, with programmatic responsibility for ACM functional areas. The manager will foster a flexible, collaborative team-oriented work environment that allows staff to work across the organization, and promote innovative approaches to operational work.
  • Be responsible for planning, development, implementation, management, and assessment of services provided by ACM for NYU special collections, including collection management, accessioning, processing, description, discovery, and project planning for archival material in all formats. The position develops, implements, and monitors department strategic and action plans, setting production and service goals; compiles statistics; and develops narrative and statistical reports on unit activities and programs, particularly for reporting to grant funding agencies.
  • Serve as part of the leadership team in KARMS, coordinating the ACM portfolio within the work of the larger KARMS group, and collaborating with colleagues throughout the unit to ensure a holistic approach to description and discovery. The position serves as part of the Special Collections leadership team, along with Heads of NYU’s three special collections and the Head of Preservation, under the direction of the Associate Dean for Collections & Research Services, to plan and prioritize collections management, description, digitization, and access projects and initiatives.
  • Collaborate with colleagues in Special Collections and University Development on fundraising proposals and projects, including planning grant projects, writing or contributing information to proposals, overseeing work on grant-funded projects and reporting to funders, and helping to develop fundraising priorities and schedules.
  • Oversee a program of work to select, implement, enhance, and provide ongoing functional ownership of collections management, discovery, and digital preservation software systems that support ACM and Special Collections work. The ACM head collaborates with colleagues in ACM, DLTS, and Library Information Technology Services to plan development cycles and allocate technology resources for ongoing support and maintenance of collection management (ArchivesSpace) and discovery (Blacklight) systems in production use.
  • Work with colleagues in Special Collections and Digital Library Technology Services to develop a vision and practical roadmap for building institutional capacity to acquire, preserve, and provide access to born-digital archival materials. The position works with curators and ACM colleagues to enhance the Library’s capacity to responsibly acquire a growing volume of electronic records and personal papers, and develop user-centered description and access tools and workflows for born-digital materials; and with the digital archivist and other colleagues in DLTS, ensure preservation of electronic formats. The position helps to lead the transition of nascent web-archiving efforts to a robust, operationalized program.
  • Collaborate with colleagues in the Preservation Department to ensure proper handling and housing methods for archival collections and the integration of good preservation assessment practice within the processing program. The position collaborates with colleagues in DLTS and Preservation to plan and implement digitization projects across all formats.
  • Actively contribute to the profession through professional service, research and publication.

Qualifications:

  • Minimum one graduate degree (master’s level or higher) required for consideration. A second graduate degree will be required to obtain tenure. One of the two graduate degrees must be an MS/MLIS from an ALA-accredited institution in library and/or information science.
  • Five to seven years increasingly responsible leadership experience in a special collection, archives, research library, or related cultural heritage setting. Preferred experience in an academic or other research library. Three to five years of supervisory experience, including supervision of student workers and professionals. Ability and willingness to mentor staff, encourage professional growth, and strengthen cross-departmental collaborations. Ability to articulate a strategic vision for specialized collections and provide leadership to achieve departmental and larger organizational goals.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in archival theory and practice, especially accessioning, processing, and description, including iterative and extensible processing strategies. Familiarity with current approaches to accessioning, processing, and description of born-digital collections. Knowledge of relevant archival and bibliographic standards and frameworks (DACS, Records in Contexts, ISAD(G), ISAAR-CPF, FRBR, RDA; EAD, EAC-CPF, BIBFRAME, MARC). Knowledge of basic preservation and conservation issues as they relate to archival collections. Knowledge of rights administration and management issues for archival collections.
  • Ability to evaluate software systems that address the needs of ACM, articulate and translate programmatic need into functional technical requirements, and advocate for appropriate information technology solutions to archival and collection management challenges. Fluency with relevant software for managing archives information and assets. Some ability to manipulate archival data through scripting, or understand when approaches for bulk, machine-based manipulation of data is appropriate, strongly preferred.
  • Experience as lead processor or supervisor on large-scale and/or complex processing projects; managing multiple processing staff; setting and meeting goals, and developing metrics to measure progress throughout a project. Experience in planning, and participation in writing successful grant proposals, in managing grant-funded projects and seeing them through to completion, and in reporting on project activities to funders, strongly preferred.
  • Experience in working with special collections funding and collection donors and in writing grant proposals strongly preferred.
  • Evidence of the ability to lead and articulate a strategic vision for the management of archival collections and to provide leadership to achieve organizational goals and priorities. Demonstrated leadership and analytical skills, creative and innovative problem-solving skills, and a strong commitment to service excellence. Evidence of success in strategic planning, introducing and managing change in complex environments, budget planning and allocation. Outstanding organizational and analytical skills to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment with a fluctuating workload, conflicting and competing priorities, and frequent distractions and interruptions.
  • Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain close and productive working relationships with colleagues and constituents in an environment where consultation, flexibility, collaboration, and cooperation are essential. Ability to work creatively, collaboratively, and effectively and to play a leadership role in promoting teamwork, diversity, equity, and inclusiveness within the Library.

NYU’s Division of Libraries embraces diversity and is committed to attracting qualified candidates who also embrace and value diversity and inclusivity. EOE/AA/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disabled/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity.


 10. ARCHIVES & SPECIAL COLLECTIONS INTERNSHIP, Santa Clara University (Santa Clara, CA, USA)

 Santa Clara University’s Archives & Special Collections unit in the University Library provides access to the history of Santa Clara University for informational, administrative and research purposes. The Archives & Manuscripts Intern will work under the supervision of the University Archivist and the Head of Archives & Special Collections. The Intern’s main duties will consist of accessioning and processing new and existing manuscript items and collections. Duties will include but are not limited to the creation of accession records and collection inventories, writing finding aids, using ArchivesSpace to accession items and encode finding aids for future publication on the Online Archive of California website, metadata creation in CONTENTdm, and other duties as assigned.

Qualifications: Current or completed enrollment in an ALA-accredited Library and Information Science master’s degree program or archival studies program. Successful completion of a minimum of 15 units within those programs, including LIBR 294 prerequisites. Completed coursework in archival theory and practice or relevant experience with archival and rare materials is required. Must have familiarity with word processing and Microsoft Office programs, be detail oriented with the ability to follow directions, and work independently when necessary. Experience with ArchivesSpace is helpful. Physical requirements include the ability to lift up to 40 lbs.

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and a list of three references to Erin Louthen at elouthen@scu.edu.

SEMESTER(S): Offered on a per semester and summer session basis.


11. DIGITIZATION PROJECT MANAGER, University of Georgia Libraries (Athens, GA, USA)

The University of Georgia seeks a Digitization Project manager who will be responsible for metadata, imaging, vendor relations, student hiring and supervision, quality control, and other duties related to the development of digital resources for the CLIR-funded Our Story project. The incumbent performs imaging quality control, descriptive and preservation metadata creation, and project management for the project. The Digital Projects Librarian/Archivist reports to the Director of the Digital Library of Georgia (DLG) and works as a member of the DLG’s Metadata and Site Development unit and supervises student assistants. This position is a limited-term assignment of 28 months with a preferred start date of August 1, 2017.

The award-winning Digital Library of Georgia is a GALILEO initiative based at the University of Georgia Libraries. The DLG works together with Georgia’s libraries, archives, museums, and other institutions of cultural heritage to provide access to the cultural and historical resources of the state of Georgia. This primary mission is accomplished through the ongoing development, maintenance, and preservation of digital collections and online digital library resources. These may include materials such as original manuscripts, typescripts, books, photographs, maps, sheet music, posters and broadsides, newspapers, primary source materials on microfilm, audio, video, and other formats. Each project is made available freely to the public as part of GALILEO. To view a full description of the position and application instructions please go to: http://facultyjobs.uga.edu/postings/1871.

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation or protected veteran status.

Required Qualifications: ALA-accredited approved MLS, or relevant Master’s degree (ACA certification expected in 5 years for continued employment). Knowledge of AACR2/RDA, or DACS, LCSH, Dublin Core metadata standard and familiarity with MARC. Knowledge of digital imaging and metadata standards; Familiarity with HTML or XML; Working knowledge of digital libraries. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships. Excellent research, writing, and oral communication skills; Ability to function as a contributing team member in a production-oriented environment. Demonstrated ability to supervise.

Preferred Qualifications: Working knowledge of creating descriptive metadata or catalog records, or describing archival materials preferred; Working knowledge of XML including METS and EAD preferred; Working knowledge of digital imaging of still images and microfilm to optimize OCR output preferred. Degree in history, public history or American studies preferred. Familiarity with grant-funded projects.


12. FIREARMS CONSERVATION TECHNICIAN (FALL 2017 INTERNSHIP, Great Basin Institute/National Park Service (Charles Town, WV, USA)

The Great Basin Institute, in cooperation with the staff at the National Park Service’s Museum Conservation Services facility in Charles Town, WV is recruiting a qualified pre-program conservation intern — or graduate — to assist with the preservation of a group of late 19th and early 20th century firearms from the Scotty’s Castle collections in Death Valley National Park.

This opportunity will provide the intern an opportunity to develop professionally through (1) directed research, (2) lab visits with other professionals in related areas of expertise, and (3) guided hands-on treatments of composite metal artifacts.

This opportunity will benefit highly motivated and skilled individuals who have either: met all pre-requisites to apply to one of the U.S. master’s degree programs in museum conservation; are former graduate program applicants who have been wait-listed or are committed to expanding and improving their skills for future acceptance in a program; or are recent graduates of a museum conservation program who are looking to expand existing skills in the conservation of mechanical-arts objects.

Compensation:

  • Pay Rate: $17.00/hour
  • Benefits: Paid holidays, Affordable Care Act-compliant health insurance

Timeline:

  • 8-week appointment beginning in August/September 2017 (no later than September 11, 2017) and upon successful completion of a DOI Background Investigation
  • Full-time, up to 40 hours per week

Qualifications: The successful candidate will possess, demonstrate, or can provide:

  • Preservation knowledge, experience, and skills commensurate with requirements for acceptance by or graduation from a U.S. graduate program in museum conservation.
  • Prior conservation experience at internship, student, or graduate level.
  • Examples of treatment documentation, a writing sample, treatment and art or craft portfolios.
  • Assurances of having an ability to maintain a positive attitude while working in a diverse team environment.
  • A valid driver’s license.
  • Transportation and laptop computer.

How to apply: Qualified and interested applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and list of three professional references by visiting: http://crcareers.thegreatbasininstitute.org/careers/careers.aspx?rf=CPO&req=2017-RAP-053.

Upon initial review, applicants selected for further consideration should be prepared to submit a writing sample and portfolios.


13. COLLECTIONS CARE ASSISTANT – HEALTH PAMPHLETS PROJECT (PART-TIME), The New York Academy of Medicine (New York City, NY, USA)

  •  Part-time up to 17.5 hours/week
  • Position available May 2017 – January 2018

Under the supervision of the Head of Preservation, the Collections Care Assistant creates protective enclosures for items in the Health Pamphlets Collection, an important collection of over 50,000 historic pamphlets related to a broad range of issues in international health. The Collections Care Assistant will rehouse pamphlets into acid-free envelopes with custom cut slings and create custom-designed corrugated boxes for housing the collection.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  1. Create protective enclosures for items from the Health Pamphlets Collection, including envelopes with custom cut slings and corrugated boxes.
  2. Work with library staff to resolve cataloging and bibliographic control issues related to labeling pamphlet enclosure.
  3. Retrieve and re-shelve boxes of pamphlets.
  4. Assist in lab maintenance, cleanliness and upkeep of tools, equipment, and supplies.
  5. Participate in disaster preparedness and response as needed.
  6. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

  • Demonstrated commitment to and interest in the field of library and archives preservation
  • Aptitude for detailed handwork and excellent manual dexterity
  • Knowledge of basic book handling practices, with demonstrated sensitivity to the handling of fragile and/or rare materials
  • Physical ability to undertake collection care duties such as moving books and materials weighing up to 30 lbs., operating lab machinery, and working in sometimes dusty and dirty environments
  • Strong organizational skills, including the ability to establish priorities and achieve goals
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team

Education and Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Experience working in a library or conservation lab is preferred

TO APPLY

Send cover letter and resume to hr@nyam.org. Please include Collections Care Assistant in the subject line of the email.

See https://nyam.org/about/careers/collections-care-assistant-pamphlets-part-time/ for more information.


14. ASSISTANT/ASSOCIATE OBJECTS CONSERVATOR, American Museum of Natural History (New York, NY, USA)

The American Museum of Natural History Division of Anthropology Conservation lab seeks to hire a Mellon Foundation funded assistant/associate conservator (Fellow) to assist in preparations for a major renovation of its historic Hall of Northwest Coast Indians. The conservator would act as the key liaison between the permanent conservation staff and the curatorial team and would help arrange communications with First Nations consultants and other experts. The conservator will work with the permanent conservation staff and collaborate with the curatorial team in research and planning for an interdisciplinary conference to take place in the fall of 2017. S/he will also undertake extensive research, taking a deeper look at the history of the Hall and its collections; prior investigations and treatment of the artifacts on display; and potentially identify interpretive and conservation issues and other factors of importance for reinstallation. Travel to the Pacific Northwest in support of this effort will also be undertaken.

Key responsibilities – the fellow will:

  • Assist in coordinating travel for consulting conservators and First Nations participants to the fall 2017 conference;
  • Maintain communication with conservators who have undertaken extensive collaborative work with indigenous people and institutions, as well as with identified native consultants on conservation issues;
  • Assist in survey activities of the artifacts being considered for installation to evaluate their condition, treatment needs and mount requirements; begin treatment of selected objects;
  • Identify and research topics, with staff conservators, that intersect with curatorial priorities and interests;
  • Assist in reorganization and digitization of information, samples and other past work to make it readily accessible for use in the project;
  • Assist in laying the groundwork for possible future conservation training initiatives for native participants.

Requirements:

  • Graduate level training in conservation and at least 4 years of museum experience, with excellent communication and organizational skills and strong attention to detail.
  • Previous experience working with ethnographic material would be optimal, as well as an interest in and experience with native consultation.
  • Demonstrated ability to work well in a group and with individuals from diverse disciplines, as well as manage a complex, multifaceted project.

This is a two-year term position that comes with competitive salary and excellent benefits, commensurate with experience and skills. The position is open immediately.

Interested candidates should send a cover letter, resume and three letters of recommendation to Judith Levinson at levinson@amnh.org.

The American Museum of Natural History is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national.


 15. PROJECT CONSERVATOR (W/ BENEFITS), Saint Louis Art Museum (St. Louis, MO, USA)

  •  Reports to: Head of Conservation
  • Supervises: No one

Specifications: Degree from an accredited conservation program or its equivalent and 3 years’ conservation experience are required as well as a broad and solid foundation in both objects conservation and collection survey methods.

This position will participate in a comprehensive collections survey to be undertaken by the Museum over a two-year period as part of its strategic plan and will collaborate with the museum’s collections staff in conducting a high-volume collections survey of the museum’s holdings. The conservator will be required to accurately and succinctly identify object condition concerns across specialties including – objects, textiles, paintings, and paper conservation.

Duties, work performed – Assess and document physical condition, recommend future treatment, propose improvements to storage, and evaluate risk factors for the Museum’s permanent collections:

  • Assess and document, both written and photographically, the condition of objects in the museum’s collection.
  • Recommend future treatment to enhance the stability and preservation of the objects surveyed.
  • Propose improved storage methods and housing for surveyed objects in both written and drawn formats including appropriate materials choice and construction methods.
  • Identify and document preservation risk factors for each object surveyed based on the Museum’s risk assessment model.
  • Ensure all documentation is properly attached to and retrievable from the museum’s collection database (TMS) in collaboration with the Registration department,
  • Serves as part of the Collections Survey Team and participates in regular team meetings to provide status updates and recommendations for keeping the project running efficiently and on schedule.

The Saint Louis Art Museum is an equal opportunity employer.


 16. PROJECT CONSERVATOR (W/O BENEFITS), Saint Louis Art Museum (St. Louis, MO, USA)

  •  Reports to: Project Conservator
  • Supervises: No one

Specifications: Degree from an accredited conservation program or its equivalent and 3 years’ conservation experience are required as well as a broad and solid foundation in both objects conservation and collection survey methods.

Job purpose: This position will participate in a comprehensive collections survey to be undertaken by the Museum over a two-year period as part of its strategic plan and will collaborate with the museum’s collections staff in conducting a high-volume collections survey of the museum’s holdings. The conservator will be required to accurately and succinctly identify object condition concerns across specialties including – objects, textiles, paintings, and paper conservation.
Duties, work performed – Assess and document physical condition, recommend future treatment, propose improvements to storage, and evaluate risk factors for the Museum’s permanent collections:

  • Assess and document, both written and photographically, the condition of objects in the Assess and document, both written and photographically, the condition of objects in the museum’s collection.
  • Recommend future treatment to enhance the stability and preservation of the objects surveyed.
  • Propose improved storage methods and housing for surveyed objects in both written and drawn formats including appropriate materials choice and construction methods.
  • Identify and document preservation risk factors for each object surveyed based on the Museum’s risk assessment model.
  • Ensure all documentation is properly attached to and retrievable from the museum’s collection database (TMS) in collaboration with the Registration department,
  • Serves as part of the Collections Survey Team and participates in regular team meetings to provide status updates and recommendations for keeping the project running efficiently and on schedule.

The Saint Louis Art Museum is an equal opportunity employer.


 17. ASSISTANT OR ASSOCIATE PAINTINGS CONSERVATOR, Saint Louis Art Museum (St. Louis, MO, USA)

  • Minimum of range: $45,824
  • Reports to: Head of Conservation
  • Supervises: no one

Specifications: Degree from an accredited conservation program or its equivalent and a minimum of 2 years of experience in paintings conservation is required. The applicant should also be familiar with and adhere to the American Institute for Conservation’s (AIC) Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice. Compensation will be commensurate with experience and will have a starting range in the mid-$40,000 (assistant) to mid-$60,000 (associate) yearly with comprehensive benefits.

The Saint Louis Art Museum seeks a collegial, collaborative, and energetic paintings conservator to join its dynamic conservation team for a 2-3-year term. SLAM’s encyclopedic paintings collection is comprised of over 1,300 works that span the 14th – 21st centuries. An ideal candidate will have a solid foundation in paintings conservation treatment techniques and be capable of collaborating with other conservation staff to solve unique preservation challenges. A successful candidate will relish in the opportunity to participate in the conservation of masterworks. They will possess a high level of attention to detail in the treatment, documentation, and general preservation that such works require. The candidate will also have a good sense of project management, conscientious observations of deadlines, and excellent communication skills.

Duties, work performed – Examine, appraise the physical condition of, and treat the Museum’s permanent collections:

  • Assess deterioration and damage, and potential complications involved in treatment.
  • Design and carry out conservation treatment of paintings and frames in consultation with specialist Curators.
  • Provide written and photographic documentation to record condition of objects, treatments proposed, and treatments performed according to the AIC Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.
  • Recommend other Conservators outside his or her field of expertise and review their treatment proposals.
  • Advise on preventative maintenance in the Museum as a whole in the areas of environment, handling, storage, and installation.
  • Examine paintings prior to acquisition to aid the Curatorial staff in determining their physical and aesthetic condition, as well as their authenticity.
  • Examine works requested for loan to determine suitability for travel and to document their condition, and advise the Registration department and others on any special packing and shipping considerations.
  • Advise on the installation, storage, and maintenance of paintings in the collection.
  • Recommend acquisition of new equipment.
  • Monitor and order conservation supplies.

The above statements of this job description describe the general duties and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. They do not claim to describe all of the functions of this position. Employees may be assigned other duties and the essential functions may change or be changed from time to time.


 18. ASSISTANT/ ASSOCIATE/ PAPER CONSERVATOR, Saint Louis Art Museum (St. Louis, MO, USA)

  • Reports to Head of Conservation
  • Supervises:Conservation Technician and grant funded interns under the direction of the Head of Conservation

Specifications: Degree from an accredited conservation program or its equivalent and 4 years’ conservation experience in paper conservation preferred. Compensation will be commensurate with experience and has a starting range in the mid-$40,000s (assistant), low-$50,000s (associate), to mid-$60,000s (conservator) yearly with annual merit raises and comprehensive benefits including support for continuing education and conference attendance. Moving expense assistance is provided.

The Saint Louis Art Museum seeks a collegial, collaborative, and energetic paper conservator to join its dynamic conservation team. SLAM’s growing collection of over 14,000 works in the prints, drawings, and photography collection spans the 16th – 21st centuries with notable works by both Eastern and Western masters. A full-time technician for preservation matting and framing works with the paper conservator to address the mounting, display, and storage enclosure needs. As the museum’s paper conservator, the candidate will plan, supervise, and participate in the conservation and restoration of works on paper. An ideal candidate will have a broad and solid foundation in treatment techniques for works on paper, familiarity with the treatment of photography, and be capable of collaborating with other conservation staff to solve unique preservation challenges. The candidate should be organized with good time and project management skills. In addition, the paper conservator will have the opportunity to guide modifications to the lab space.

Duties, work performed: Examine and assess physical condition work on paper in the Museum’s permanent collections:

  • Assess deterioration and damage, and potential complications involved in treatment.
  • Design and carry out conservation treatment in consultation with the Curator of Prints, Drawings and Photographs.
  • Provide written and photographic documentation to record condition of objects, treatments proposed, and treatments performed.
  • Recommend other Conservators outside their field of expertise and review treatment proposals.
  • Advise on preventative maintenance in the Museum as a whole in the areas of environment, handling, storage, and installation.
  • Examine works on paper prior to acquisition to aid the Curatorial staff in determining physical and aesthetic condition, as well as authenticity of works.
  • Examine works requested for loan to document their condition and to determine suitability for travel and, and advise the Registrar and others on any special packing and shipping considerations.
  • Supervise the technician assigned to the department of prints, drawings and photographs, and in particular, review the design and fabrication of mats and frames for the collection.
  • Advise the Registrar and Curators on the installation, storage and maintenance of works on paper in the collection.

Administer the Paper Conservation Lab:

  • Manage workflow and assist in preparing, monitoring and controlling the budget.
  • Provide guidance to conservation technician for matting and framing as needed.
  • Recommend acquisition of new equipment.
  • Monitor and order conservation supplies.

The above statements of this job description describe the general duties and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. They do not claim to describe all of the functions of this position. Employees may be assigned other duties and the essential functions may change or be changed from time to time.

Applicants should apply through the Museum’s website (www.slam.org).

Additional questions regarding the position or the collection should be directed to the Head of Conservation at hugh.shockey@slam.org.


19. PAINTINGS CONSERVATOR, ARTEX Fine Art Services (Davie, FL, USA)

  • Reports to: General Manager
  • Supervises: No regular supervisory duties. Periodic advising, instructing and/or collaboration of the work done by conservation staff, interns, art handlers, or other ARTEX staff.

Basic function: Carry out the examination, documentation, and treatment of paintings on behalf of ARTEX Fine Art Services.

Essential function:

  1. Carry out physical examination and documentation of paintings on behalf of ARTEX Fine Art Services by:
  • carrying out surveys of the physical condition of paintings in order to assist in the planning of treatment priorities;
  • performing detailed examination of the materials, structure, and condition of paintings;
  • operating specialized equipment such as stereo binocular microscopes, ultra-violet lamps, in the course of painting examination and analysis;
  • preparing written reports on the materials, structure, and condition of paintings, and on treatments proposed for those works and estimated costs;
  • performing slide and digital photography as well as image processing;
  • adhering to accepted professional standards and to the AIC Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice in all aspects of examination and documentation.
  1. Carry out complete conservation and restoration procedures of minor to major complexity on paintings, by:
  • performing such treatments as solubility testing, consolidation, reduction of deformation, facing, lining, lining removal, surface cleaning, varnish removal, overpaint removal, infilling, inpainting, and surface coating application;
  • implementing preventive conservation measures, frame modification, re-framing, and others, to prepare paintings for display, exhibition, loan, photography, or storage;
  • operating specialized equipment such as the heated suction table, Willard heated spatula and hot air pen, aerosol generator, etc. in the course of paintings conservation and restoration treatment;
  • recording photographically the various stages of treatment to create a permanent documentary record;
  • maintaining accurate records and preparing written final reports of the treatments carried out;
  • maintaining an awareness of hazardous materials and performing duties in accordance with accepted standards of health and safety; ensuring that junior staff and interns follow safe procedures;
  • adhering to accepted professional standards and to the AIC Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice in all aspects of conservation treatment.
  1. Contribute to the safe display, storage, and movement of paintings, by:
  • recommending framing and hanging systems to ensure the physical safety of paintings;
  • recommending safe environmental levels of light, temperature, and relative humidity;
  • recommending safe packing methods for art works being stored or transported;
  • advising on safe handling procedures.
  1. Perform other related duties, as required, including but not restricted to:
  • participating in periodic inspections of works of art;
  • collaboration on projects with other conservators, proposal writing, and site-visits.
  • assisting other conservators in the examination and/or treatment of works of art;
  • assembling specialized equipment such as humidity chambers, temporary stretchers, work surfaces, etc. and maintaining laboratory equipment and tools as required

Problem solving:

  1. Works with problems of moderate to major scope and complexity where solutions require evaluation of various factors, all of which may present new information.
  2. Duties and tasks are varied and of moderate to high complexity, requiring resourcefulness and creativity.
  3. Proactively anticipates problems and puts processes in place or escalates to appropriate source to avoid them in the future.
  4. May serve as a resource to others in the resolution of questions/problems.

Decision making:

  1. Rarely receives instructions and/or has work reviewed prior to completing routine work.
  2. Determines methods and procedures for completing new assignments, sometimes in consultation with the General Manager.
  3. Exercises sound judgment within broadly defined practices and procedures.
  4. Decisions require a high level of judgment and analysis of the appropriate course of action.
  5. Routine work is subject to review only upon completion, when something is in question, or when an error or unacceptable result has been detected.
  6. Inappropriate decisions, recommendations, or errors normally can cause irrevocable damage to works of art.

Physical requirements/work environment: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is consistently required to use the eyes and hands in situations of intense concentration, usually for extended periods of time and often using a microscope or other specialized equipment. The employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, kneel, crouch or bend for long periods in the laboratory or on site. Repetitive actions are required over prolonged periods. It is necessary to often lift, carry, and otherwise handle works of art. Work may involve the use of ladders, lifts, or scaffolding. Considerable office work is also required involving sitting at a computer and processing documents and images for considerable periods of time. Mental and visual fatigue, muscle strain, and repetitive stress disorders must be avoided.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Minimum qualifications:

  1. Education:
    • Master’s degree in Art Conservation, or equivalent combination of conservation training and experience.
    • Periodic professional development through attendance of conservation workshops, seminars or professional conferences.
  1. Work experience:
  • Extensive experience in the examination and treatment of paintings, 5+ years
  • Advanced skills in: examining paintings to establish their physical condition; distinguishing between original materials and later additions, recommending conservation measures and carrying through to completion restoration operations of minor to major complexity.
  1. Attributes/skills:
  • Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the materials and techniques of traditional easel paintings on canvas, wood, and related supports.
  • Thorough understanding of the mechanisms of physical, chemical, and biological deterioration of materials making up paintings
  • Sound knowledge of the principles, processes, and practices involved in the preservation and treatment of paintings, both traditional and the most recent developments
  • Understanding of safe handling, framing, crating, and shipping practices.
  1. Job specific attributes/skills:
  • Demonstrated working knowledge of materials, techniques, and ethics of painting conservation
  • Extremely fine manual skills, coordination, and precision
  • High degree of patience, concentration, and attention to detail
  • Ability to carry out routine procedures that have a low degree of tolerance of error due to interruption, distraction, or effect of fatigue
  • Perception of subtle differences in materials and in changes as treatment proceeds
  • Sound / critical judgment in a work situation that has attendant and constant risks of damage to works of art
  • Ability to work effectively under pressure of deadlines and departmental objectives relating to efficiency and productive use of work time
  • Ability to interact and work effectively with colleagues and clients as a positive and productive team member
  • Administrative skills including processing of written and photographic documentation, ordering or purchasing of materials and equipment, and many aspects of project assistance or coordination as required

Preferred qualifications:

  1. Knowledge of the materials and techniques of modern paintings in addition to traditional paintings.
  2. Experience in a major fine art gallery or museum

20. SENIOR CONSERVATOR/PROJECT MANAGER, Conservation Solutions Inc. (Washington DC, USA)

  • Salary range DOE $100,000 – $130,000

Conservation Solutions Inc. (CSI) is an international heritage preservation firm located in the capital cities of Washington, DC (USA) and Ottawa, ON (Canada) with satellite offices throughout North America. The company focuses on the assessment, testing and treatment of significant works of art, architecture and artifacts. CSI has been in business since 1999 and currently has a staff complement of approximately 25 professionals. We have an immediate opening for the position of Senior Conservator/Project Manager operating out of our Washington, DC area location.

The Senior Conservator will bear responsibility for all project management aspects of the delivery of historic preservation design and implementation services by a team of conservation professionals under the guidance and direction of a VP Operations. Responsibilities include scope, schedule, & budget development and management, staffing, directing, and controlling the delivery of assignments. S/he will supervise subordinate staff and sub-contractors assigned to their projects, ensure strict adherence to accepted professional standards and ensure Quality Control throughout the project. The Senior Conservator must provide leadership and expertise for all technical aspects relating to conservation work. S/he will manage and develop client relationships and represent CSI at industry events through technical presentations and workshops which may also be published.

This position requires an extensive knowledge of conservation and restoration principals as well as a thorough understanding of construction project management techniques. Strong time management, team building and leadership skills will be a critical requirement as the individual will be leading and directing a group of professionals in a challenging and competitive business environment. Candidates must be able to communicate effectively and resolve conflicts both orally and in writing. Excellent verbal, phone and written skills are required. Previous experience with government contracts is a plus.

The preferred candidate will have at least seven to ten years of experience with increasing responsibility at a senior conservator/project management level, as well as an appropriate professional designation.

An advanced University degree in historic preservation or objects conservation is required, although candidates with an architecture or engineering degree with a focus on historic preservation will be considered.

Although the position will be located out of our Washington DC office, the successful candidate will be expected to travel to various job-sites throughout North America. The candidate must have a valid driver’s license and passport, be able to pass government security badging processes, and be legal to work in the US.

Only qualified candidates may submit their resume and cover letter via email to careers@conservationsolutionsinc.com.

 No telephone calls please.


21. OBJECTS/ SCULPTURE CONSERVATOR, Rosa Lowinger & Associates Conservation Inc. (Miami, FL, USA)

  • We will be conducting interviews at the AIC 45th Annual Meeting in Chicago

RLA Conservation, Inc. seeks to hire a career-oriented, full-time Objects/ Sculpture Conservator to be based in our Miami, Florida studio. The ideal candidate will hold a postgraduate degree (M.A. or M.S.) in conservation and have a strong background and interest in modern and contemporary art as well as other disciplines of sculpture conservation.  We are looking for an enthusiastic professional with excellent hand skills, critical thinking abilities, and verbal and written communication abilities, who works well as part of a team and can manage time and meet deadlines.  This position also requires overnight travel.

Founded in 2008, RLA Conservation, Inc draws upon its founder Rosa Lowinger’s 30 years in private conservation practice and is considered a national leader in conservation of public art, buildings, contemporary three-dimensional art and sculpture.  We have offices in Los Angeles and Miami but work throughout the United States, with some work also in the burgeoning markets of Latin America and the Caribbean.  We are an equal opportunity employer with a uniquely high level of diversity amongst our team of 5 professionally trained conservators, 12 technicians, and 3 office staff.  We pride ourselves on being known as a great place to work and a firm that supports the personal and professional growth of its employees.

Key responsibilities:

  • Preparation of condition reports, treatment proposals, surveys, work schedules, and additional related documentation
  • Hands-on treatments of a wide range of collections, with a specialty in modern and contemporary
  • Project management of site sculpture conservation projects, as needed
  • Outdoor sculpture conservation and maintenance, including supervision of skilled technicians.
  • Conducting of collections surveys
  • Liaising with museum and private clients, including preparation of cost estimates in conjunction with lead conservators.
  • Triage and on-site collection recovery as needed during emergencies
  • Additional responsibilities as directed and supervised by the Lead Conservator and Senior Conservator

Qualification requirements:

  • Postgraduate degree in Conservation, specializing in architecture, sculpture, or objects
  • Equivalent experience will be considered for someone with an advanced degree in fine arts and at least 3 years of work in a conservation studio
  • Ability to work independently and contribute as an effective member of a team
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills in English
  • Digital photography proficiency, computer proficiency
  • U.S. work permit
  • Active driver’s license and auto insurance
  • Ability to work outdoors, on ladders, lifts, scaffolding, and be physically capable of carrying tools and equipment

Also desired, but not required:

  • Spanish language proficiency
  • Strong background in modern and contemporary art

RLA offers a competitive salary and excellent benefits that includes:

  • Contribution towards health insurance
  • Contribution towards smart phone plan
  • Free eye exams
  • Two weeks paid vacation to start and a third week after 3 years of employment
  • 7 paid holidays
  • Annual contribution towards conference attendance
  • Continuing Education opportunities
  • Paid sick leave
  • Participation in excellent retirement plan

Please send a resume and cover letter to: ltelford@rosalowinger.comWe will be conducting interviews at the 45th Annual Meeting in Chicago.

FAIC Oral History Project — ECPs Needed!

Attention Emerging Conservation Professionals, the FAIC Oral History Project needs your help!  Participation in the Oral History Project is an excellent way to connect with seasoned conservators and make a contribution to our field’s legacy.  Interviewers are needed especially in the following areas:

Indianapolis, Indiana
Shepherdstown, West Virginia
Hendersonville, North Carolina

For more information, please visit the FAIC Oral History Project website (http://www.conservation-us.org/our-organizations/foundation-(faic)/initiatives/oral-history-project#anchor3) and contact Joyce Hill Stoner at Jstone@winterthur.org

Job Digest: May 22, 2017

  1. Book Conservator, Oxford Conservation Consortium
  2. Library/Archive Conservator (Maternity Cover), Oxford Conservation Consortium
  3. Collections Manager, East Carolina University
  4. Associate Conservator of Paintings, Philadelphia Museum of Art
  5. Audio Preservation Engineer, Northeast Document Conservation Center
  6. Book Conservator, Northeast Document Conservation Center
  7. Head, Archival Collections Management, New York University, Division of Libraries
  8. Archives & Special Collections Internship, Santa Clara University
  9. Digitization Project Manager, University of Georgia Libraries
  10. Special Collections Librarian, University of Virginia School of Law
  11. Project Paper Conservator, Book of the Dead of Herw —Conservation

1. BOOK CONSERVATOR, Oxford Conservation Consortium (Oxford, UK)

  • Application closing date: May 25, 2017 at 12:00 noon
  • Contract type: Full time, permanent
  • Salary: University of Oxford pay scale grade 5, GBP24,565 – GBP32,004 commensurate with experience

Oxford Conservation Consortium (OCC) seeks a highly motivated and experienced book conservator to work on the special collections of its members. OCC is a small but busy conservation studio providing collection care to its 16 members, all colleges of the University of Oxford with library and archive collections of national importance. The post holder will assist with the assessment of the preservation and conservation needs of OCC members, and the implementation of work programs, including carrying out conservation treatments on a wide range of book/archive objects.

For further particulars and application forms, visit: www.magd.ox.ac.uk/job-vacancies.


2. LIBRARY/ARCHIVE CONSERVATOR (Maternity Cover), Oxford Conservation Consortium (Oxford, UK)

  • Application closing date: May 25, 2017 at 12:00 noon
  • Contract type: Maternity cover, 1 year fixed term, full time.
  • Salary: University of Oxford payscale grade 4, ?21,220 — ?26,829 commensurate with experience.

Oxford Conservation Consortium (OCC) has a job opportunity for a conservator of library and archive materials wishing to start their career in a busy conservation studio, and to gain exposure to a broad range of collections, tasks, and techniques. OCC provides collection care to 16 members, all colleges of the University of Oxford with library and archive collections of national importance. The post holder will assist with the delivery of conservation and preservation work programs, including carrying out interventive treatments on a wide range of book/archive objects.

For further particulars and application forms, see: www.magd.ox.ac.uk/job-vacancies.


3. COLLECTIONS MANAGER, East Carolina University (Greenville, NC, USA)

  • Closing Date: May 26, 2017
  • Vacancy #: 002633
  • Salary Range: $25,900-$43,334
  • This is a time limited/1-3-year position
  • Salary Grade Equivalent: 61 (for reduction-in-force priority purposes only)

This position would work with both the Country Doctor Museum and the Laupus Library historical objects.

The priority project the employee would be to catalog all Laupus artifacts in rediscovery: Proficio.

This would enable the library employees to search for artifacts relevant for particular research interests and to effectively maintain records of these objects in an inventory system. This person would work with the Head of History Collections on ensuring the metadata is sufficient for export for ECU Libraries web presences.

Additional work would include:

  • completing Laupus laboratory safety training (potential to serve as Lab Manager)
  • selecting conservation supplies for Head of History Collections to work to procure
  • performing light conservation treatments on objects or recommending de-accession or outsourcing of more extensive treatments to History Collections Librarian, Head of History Collections, and Curator of Country Doctor Museum
  • preparing artifacts for exhibit, recommending (and maintaining approved) ideal long-term preservation conditions for artifacts
  • completing research on artifacts (including patent information, use of the artifact, and timeline of when the artifact was created and used, and any information related to provenance)
  • working on developing a policy for object loans with Head of History Collections
  • photographing objects
  • composing online posts on the objects for social media and/or the library website

The employee would do the same for Country Doctor Museum. Their primary work with the CDM would be to start:

  • preparing artifacts for exhibit
  • ensuring adequate storage environments
  • working with Laupus Library to order supplies needed for preservation and conservation of these materials

Additional projects related to the objects can be completed as approved and as time permits.

Minimum Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalency and two years of experience in library services, office support, or related field; or equivalent combination of training and experience.

Preferred Education and Experience: BA in Anthropology, Archaeology, Public History, or related field and experience in describing and/or cataloging objects is preferred.

Completion of conservation coursework and/or volunteer or paid field or museum artifact conservation experience is desired.

Ability to lift at least 25lbs and have a valid NC driver’s license is preferred.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANTS: this is a time limited/1-3-year position.

This position is subject to the Career Banding Salary Administration Plan. If candidates are not identified at the Journey level, management may consider candidates at a lower competency level. Pay will be commensurate with applicant’s competencies as well as budget, equity, and market considerations.

Additional Instructions to Applicants: Applicants must complete a candidate profile or staff application (see “Application Types Accepted” below) online via the PeopleAdmin system. In addition, applicants must submit the documents requested in order to be considered for the position. 

Application Types Accepted:

  • Application (SHRA and CSS only)
  • Applications must be received in the Department of Human Resources by the closing date to be considered. Please submit an online ECU application for vacancy # 002633 to ECU Human Resources at jobs.ecu.edu

Visit this job posting at https://ecu.peopleadmin.com/applicants/Central?quickFind=86061.

East Carolina University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.


4. ASSOCIATE CONSERVATOR OF PAINTINGS, Philadelphia Museum of Art (Philadelphia, PA, USA)

  • Application Deadline: July 15, 2017

The Philadelphia Museum of Art seeks to fill the position of Associate Conservator of Paintings. Qualified candidates will have academic credentials from a recognized conservation training program and specialized experience beyond the degree in the study, care, and treatment of paintings. This position requires significant museum experience in the typical range of conservation activities involved in optimal preservation and presentation of a large and varied paintings collection, in the support of active loan and exhibition programs, and in cooperative work with staff at large to meet departmental and institutional goals.

Reporting to the Senior Conservator of Paintings, the Associate Conservator has direct responsibility for conservation of a renowned and growing collection of paintings spanning many cultures and curatorial departments. Candidates must possess outstanding visual and manual aptitudes, strong written and oral communication skills, a sound art-historical and technical knowledge of painting, and demonstrated ability to deal with the complexities and dynamic pace of a large cultural institution.

Duties include:

  • Examination, integrated technical and historical study, documentation, and treatment of paintings in the collection
  • Assessing condition of paintings requested for loan or being considered for acquisition, and documentation of the condition of incoming or outgoing loans
  • Advising on installations, storage, handling, packing, and transport of paintings
  • Working with conservation scientists in chemical and instrumental analysis and characterization of materials and construction of works of art
  • Supervising and instructing conservation junior staff, post-graduate fellows, interns, and technicians
  • Promoting awareness of the role and work of the museum’s Conservation Department, in part through developing content for public outreach

To apply, visit: www.philamuseum.org/jobs.

Applications should include pdf files containing a statement of interest, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three professional references familiar with the candidate’s critical judgment, treatment work, and interpersonal and organizational skills. The recruitment system allows multiple attachments with your application.

Questions may be directed to Teresa A. Lignelli, The Aronson Senior Conservator of Paintings, tlignelli@philamuseum.org.


5. AUDIO PRESERVATION ENGINEER, Northeast Document Conservation Center (Andover, MA, USA)

The Northeast Document Conservation Center (NEDCC) is expanding its digital audio preservation service for libraries, archives, and museums. This service builds upon NEDCC’s successful implementation of “IRENE,” the IMLS-funded optical scanning technology developed by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and the Library of Congress for digitizing grooved audio carriers. NEDCC is investing in the additional facilities, equipment, and staffing to offer reformatting of audio content on magnetic and other obsolete media using more traditional approaches. NEDCC acknowledges the generous support of The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation for underwriting both the audio business planning for, and the implementation of, its full audio preservation service.

Position Summary: NEDCC is seeking an experienced audio preservation professional to serve on its expanded Audio Preservation Services team. The new Audio Preservation Engineer will use both the IRENE technology and traditional methods for digitally reformatting obsolete audio carriers, such as analog tapes, digital audio tapes, discs, cylinders, and unusual formats (e.g., tin foils, Dictabelts, etc.). NEDCC’s service will help fill a much-needed niche of providing 1:1 transfers with 100% quality control, particularly for those highly-valued collections that deserve a specialized (rather than high-throughput) workflow. Because NEDCC is a conservation center, its service will also place emphasis on the preservation of the carrier as well as its audio contents. In addition to digitization, NEDCC will offer collection- and item-level surveys, cleaning, treatment, and re-housing using vetted and transparent (i.e., non-proprietary) approaches.

Responsibilities: The Audio Preservation Engineer reports directly to the Manager of Audio Preservation Services, and is responsible for:

  • rigorously following best practices for digital audio preservation of degrading media on highly obsolete formats;
  • identifying legacy carriers and their formatting and playback characteristics;
  • cleaning, repairing, stabilizing and re-housing of original carriers;
  • performing post-processing functions consistent with best archival practice;
  • strictly following quality control procedures;
  • carefully aligning/calibrating playback machines;
  • regularly verifying signal chain performance;
  • collecting extensive data on both the source recordings and the transfer process for project documentation;
  • achieving quality and productivity goals;
  • updating daily production data in NEDCC’s workflow tracking software;
  • collaborating with colleagues to continuously improve quality and workflows; and
  • staying abreast of the latest developments in the audio preservation field by maintaining membership in professional and related associations such as IASA, AES, and ARSC.

Qualifications: Applicants should have:

1) Bachelor’s degree in audio engineering, audio production, or related field;
2) detailed knowledge of, and hands-on experience in, all aspects of digitally preserving audio collections;
3) knowledge of legacy audio formats;
4) ability to perform basic maintenance and calibration of current and obsolete audio playback equipment;
5) excellent listening skills;
6) meticulous attention to detail;
7) demonstrated ability to work under deadlines in a production-oriented environment; and
8) exceptional problem-solving skills.

It is anticipated that the Audio Preservation Services department will receive an increasingly steady amount of work from large to small institutions as well as private clients whose primary concerns are quality of deliverables and care in handling. The department is projected to grow to full capacity over a three- to five-year timeline and be able to accommodate projects of most sizes and any complexity. In addition to the services referenced above, NEDCC will continue to explore and develop other specialty services to meet the needs of the library, archives, and museum communities. About NEDCC Founded in 1973, NEDCC is the first independent conservation laboratory in the United States to specialize exclusively in treating collections made of paper or parchment, such as works of art, books, photographs, maps, manuscripts, etc.

Application Process NEDCC is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Salary and benefits are competitive. This position will remain open until filled. To apply, please send cover letter and resume in PDF to Bryce Roe, Manager of Audio Preservation Services, at broe@nedcc.org.


6. BOOK CONSERVATOR, Northeast Document Conservation Center (Andover, MA, USA)

Note: Although there are no positions currently available in NEDCC’s Book Conservation lab, we are always interested in connecting with qualified book conservators in anticipation of future openings. Please don’t hesitate to send a letter of interest and CV, and contact us with any questions you may have.  

The Northeast Document Conservation Center (NEDCC) seeks an innovative and creative Conservator to join its Book Conservation Lab. Reporting to the Director of Book Conservation, the Conservator will perform conservation of diverse and unique bound materials held by NEDCC’s institutional and private clients, including printed books and pamphlets, bound manuscripts, scrapbooks, atlases, record books and photograph albums. Responsibilities include performing all conservation activities including examination of objects and development of conservation proposals; documentation; treatment of text blocks and bindings; consulting with clients; and assisting with assessments and educational programs. All work is performed according to the Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice of the American Institute for the Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works.

Required qualifications: A knowledge of physical, mechanical and chemical nature of books and paper as evidenced by graduate degree in conservation or related field of study; knowledge of book and paper conservation principles and practices; an understanding of preservation principles and their relation to treatment options; ability to work independently and collaboratively; ability to work in a productive environment; meticulous attention to detail; documentation skills; excellent written and oral communication skills; and creativity and enthusiasm. Preferred qualifications: Demonstrated ability to contribute to the profession through teaching, research and/or publication. The successful candidate will be joining a team of experienced and productive book conservators, and will benefit from working alongside imaging specialists and conservators in other specialties dedicated to the care of books and collections of significance and value.

For more information, please visit www.nedcc.org. Only persons with the legal right to work in the United States are eligible. Salary will be commensurate with experience. NEDCC is an equal opportunity employer. This position will remain open until filled.

Application Process To apply, please send resume, letter of intent, and names and contact information for three references in PDF format to: Mary Patrick Bogan, Director of Book Conservation, mpbogan@nedcc.org.


7. HEAD, ARCHIVAL COLLECTIONS MANAGEMENT, New York University, Division of Libraries (New York, NY, USA)

New York University Libraries seeks a collaborative and knowledgeable manager to serve as the Head of Archival Collections Management (ACM), leading a unified archival technical processing unit that supports acquisition, collection management, description, and discovery needs across the NYU special collections in New York. The successful candidate will combine demonstrated technical processing and management experience with substantial knowledge of standards and practices for preserving, processing, describing, and providing access to archival collections in archival and special collections library settings.

Reporting to the Associate Dean for Knowledge Access and Resource Management Services (KARMS) and in close collaboration with the Associate Dean for Collections and Research Services, the Head of ACM is a key senior managerial position within KARMS, within the Special Collections management team, and within the Libraries’ Department Managers Group. The position provides leadership, vision, strategic direction, and expertise for a core staff of 3 FTE professionals, with additional grant-funded staff varying over time (currently 10 FTE), and 4 FTE student workers. The staff is responsible for archival accessioning, arrangement, and description; functional ownership of systems for archival collection management and discovery; and acquiring and managing contemporary born-digital archival materials. The incumbent will closely collaborate with colleagues across the Division of Libraries, especially in the Special Collections, Preservation, and Digital Library Technology Services (DLTS) departments. Librarians are expected to serve as partners in the educational mission of NYU by establishing strong relationships with faculty and students, and providing responsive and innovative information services.

Responsibilities: Under the general supervision of the Associate Dean for Knowledge Access and Resource Management Services, the successful candidate will:

  • Serve as the department head for ACM, with programmatic responsibility for ACM functional areas. The manager will foster a flexible, collaborative team-oriented work environment that allows staff to work across the organization, and promote innovative approaches to operational work.
  • Be responsible for planning, development, implementation, management, and assessment of services provided by ACM for NYU special collections, including collection management, accessioning, processing, description, discovery, and project planning for archival material in all formats. The position develops, implements, and monitors department strategic and action plans, setting production and service goals; compiles statistics; and develops narrative and statistical reports on unit activities and programs, particularly for reporting to grant funding agencies.
  • Serve as part of the leadership team in KARMS, coordinating the ACM portfolio within the work of the larger KARMS group, and collaborating with colleagues throughout the unit to ensure a holistic approach to description and discovery. The position serves as part of the Special Collections leadership team, along with Heads of NYU’s three special collections and the Head of Preservation, under the direction of the Associate Dean for Collections & Research Services, to plan and prioritize collections management, description, digitization, and access projects and initiatives.
  • Collaborate with colleagues in Special Collections and University Development on fundraising proposals and projects, including planning grant projects, writing or contributing information to proposals, overseeing work on grant-funded projects and reporting to funders, and helping to develop fundraising priorities and schedules.
  • Oversee a program of work to select, implement, enhance, and provide ongoing functional ownership of collections management, discovery, and digital preservation software systems that support ACM and Special Collections work. The ACM head collaborates with colleagues in ACM, DLTS, and Library Information Technology Services to plan development cycles and allocate technology resources for ongoing support and maintenance of collection management (ArchivesSpace) and discovery (Blacklight) systems in production use.
  • Work with colleagues in Special Collections and Digital Library Technology Services to develop a vision and practical roadmap for building institutional capacity to acquire, preserve, and provide access to born-digital archival materials. The position works with curators and ACM colleagues to enhance the Library’s capacity to responsibly acquire a growing volume of electronic records and personal papers, and develop user-centered description and access tools and workflows for born-digital materials; and with the digital archivist and other colleagues in DLTS, ensure preservation of electronic formats. The position helps to lead the transition of nascent web-archiving efforts to a robust, operationalized program.
  • Collaborate with colleagues in the Preservation Department to ensure proper handling and housing methods for archival collections and the integration of good preservation assessment practice within the processing program. The position collaborates with colleagues in DLTS and Preservation to plan and implement digitization projects across all formats.
  • Actively contribute to the profession through professional service, research and publication.

Qualifications:

  • Minimum one graduate degree (master’s level or higher) required for consideration. A second graduate degree will be required to obtain tenure. One of the two graduate degrees must be an MS/MLIS from an ALA-accredited institution in library and/or information science.
  • Five to seven years increasingly responsible leadership experience in a special collection, archives, research library, or related cultural heritage setting. Preferred experience in an academic or other research library. Three to five years of supervisory experience, including supervision of student workers and professionals. Ability and willingness to mentor staff, encourage professional growth, and strengthen cross-departmental collaborations. Ability to articulate a strategic vision for specialized collections and provide leadership to achieve departmental and larger organizational goals.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in archival theory and practice, especially accessioning, processing, and description, including iterative and extensible processing strategies. Familiarity with current approaches to accessioning, processing, and description of born-digital collections. Knowledge of relevant archival and bibliographic standards and frameworks (DACS, Records in Contexts, ISAD(G), ISAAR-CPF, FRBR, RDA; EAD, EAC-CPF, BIBFRAME, MARC). Knowledge of basic preservation and conservation issues as they relate to archival collections. Knowledge of rights administration and management issues for archival collections.
  • Ability to evaluate software systems that address the needs of ACM, articulate and translate programmatic need into functional technical requirements, and advocate for appropriate information technology solutions to archival and collection management challenges. Fluency with relevant software for managing archives information and assets. Some ability to manipulate archival data through scripting, or understand when approaches for bulk, machine-based manipulation of data is appropriate, strongly preferred.
  • Experience as lead processor or supervisor on large-scale and/or complex processing projects; managing multiple processing staff; setting and meeting goals, and developing metrics to measure progress throughout a project. Experience in planning, and participation in writing successful grant proposals, in managing grant-funded projects and seeing them through to completion, and in reporting on project activities to funders, strongly preferred.
  • Experience in working with special collections funding and collection donors and in writing grant proposals strongly preferred.
  • Evidence of the ability to lead and articulate a strategic vision for the management of archival collections and to provide leadership to achieve organizational goals and priorities. Demonstrated leadership and analytical skills, creative and innovative problem-solving skills, and a strong commitment to service excellence. Evidence of success in strategic planning, introducing and managing change in complex environments, budget planning and allocation. Outstanding organizational and analytical skills to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment with a fluctuating workload, conflicting and competing priorities, and frequent distractions and interruptions.
  • Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain close and productive working relationships with colleagues and constituents in an environment where consultation, flexibility, collaboration, and cooperation are essential. Ability to work creatively, collaboratively, and effectively and to play a leadership role in promoting teamwork, diversity, equity, and inclusiveness within the Library.

NYU’s Division of Libraries embraces diversity and is committed to attracting qualified candidates who also embrace and value diversity and inclusivity.

EOE/AA/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disabled/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity


 8. ARCHIVES & SPECIAL COLLECTIONS INTERNSHIP, Santa Clara University (Santa Clara, CA, USA)

Santa Clara University’s Archives & Special Collections unit in the University Library provides access to the history of Santa Clara University for informational, administrative and research purposes. The Archives & Manuscripts Intern will work under the supervision of the University Archivist and the Head of Archives & Special Collections. The Intern’s main duties will consist of accessioning and processing new and existing manuscript items and collections. Duties will include but are not limited to the creation of accession records and collection inventories, writing finding aids, using ArchivesSpace to accession items and encode finding aids for future publication on the Online Archive of California website, metadata creation in CONTENTdm, and other duties as assigned.

Qualifications: Current or completed enrollment in an ALA-accredited Library and Information Science master’s degree program or archival studies program. Successful completion of a minimum of 15 units within those programs, including LIBR 294 prerequisites. Completed coursework in archival theory and practice or relevant experience with archival and rare materials is required. Must have familiarity with word processing and Microsoft Office programs, be detail oriented with the ability to follow directions, and work independently when necessary. Experience with ArchivesSpace is helpful. Physical requirements include the ability to lift up to 40 lbs.

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and a list of three references to Erin Louthen at elouthen@scu.edu.

SEMESTER(S): Offered on a per semester and summer session basis.


9. DIGITIZATION PROJECT MANAGER, University of Georgia Libraries (Athens, GA, USA)

The University of Georgia seeks a Digitization Project manager who will be responsible for metadata, imaging, vendor relations, student hiring and supervision, quality control, and other duties related to the development of digital resources for the CLIR-funded Our Story project. The incumbent performs imaging quality control, descriptive and preservation metadata creation, and project management for the project. The Digital Projects Librarian/Archivist reports to the Director of the Digital Library of Georgia (DLG) and works as a member of the DLG’s Metadata and Site Development unit and supervises student assistants. This position is a limited-term assignment of 28 months with a preferred start date of August 1, 2017.

The award-winning Digital Library of Georgia is a GALILEO initiative based at the University of Georgia Libraries. The DLG works together with Georgia’s libraries, archives, museums, and other institutions of cultural heritage to provide access to the cultural and historical resources of the state of Georgia. This primary mission is accomplished through the ongoing development, maintenance, and preservation of digital collections and online digital library resources. These may include materials such as original manuscripts, typescripts, books, photographs, maps, sheet music, posters and broadsides, newspapers, primary source materials on microfilm, audio, video, and other formats. Each project is made available freely to the public as part of GALILEO. To view a full description of the position and application instructions please go to:  http://facultyjobs.uga.edu/postings/1871.

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation or protected veteran status.

Required Qualifications: ALA-accredited approved MLS, or relevant Master’s degree (ACA certification expected in 5 years for continued employment). Knowledge of AACR2/RDA, or DACS, LCSH, Dublin Core metadata standard and familiarity with MARC. Knowledge of digital imaging and metadata standards; Familiarity with HTML or XML; Working knowledge of digital libraries. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships. Excellent research, writing, and oral communication skills; Ability to function as a contributing team member in a production-oriented environment. Demonstrated ability to supervise.

Preferred Qualifications: Working knowledge of creating descriptive metadata or catalog records, or describing archival materials preferred; Working knowledge of XML including METS and EAD preferred; Working knowledge of digital imaging of still images and microfilm to optimize OCR output preferred. Degree in history, public history or American studies preferred. Familiarity with grant-funded projects.


10. SPECIAL COLLECTIONS LIBRARIAN, University of Virginia School of Law (Charlottesville, VA, USA)

The Law Library at the University of Virginia School of Law seeks a Librarian to shape the future of its Special Collections and further the Library’s mission of preserving and interpreting the history of the School of Law. The Special Collections Librarian will work within the Library’s diverse collection of rare books and historical manuscripts and archives of the UVA Law School to ensure their preservation, and will develop strategies that maintain Special Collections’ role in advancing the current and future scholarly needs of the Law School, and expanding and preserving the history of the Law School community. The Special Collections Librarian will act as a connection point between the Law School, its faculty, and its alumni by working to acquire new, relevant collections from faculty and other community members while ensuring their shared access to the history of the institution.

The Special Collections Librarian will participate in collecting, processing, organizing, preserving, digitizing, and making accessible collections of photographs, manuscripts, and rare books. The Librarian will play a lead role in setting priorities for digitizing and processing archival materials. The Librarian will develop and improve the digital tools and user interfaces of the library’s online collections; will lead the Library’s efforts to promote Special Collections materials and projects and the Law School’s history by publishing including scholarly publications, blogs and social media, exhibitions, and online. The Librarian will be the liaison to the larger library community regarding the acquisition, description, and preservation of rare materials.

Required qualifications include an ALA-accredited Master’s degree in information/library science, or graduate degree in archival studies, history, law, or a related field with library or archives experience; prior experience in special collections and/or archives; commitment to public services and user-centered reference and instructional services; ability to supervise, mentor, and train special collections and archives personnel; knowledge of current practice and research in archival management policies and procedures; assistance with grant writing, donor relations, and collection solicitation; excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to work effectively with culturally diverse library users and colleagues; excellent archival-based research skills and synthesis of archival materials into historical writing; ability to speak about a range of library issues including scholarly communication, digital initiatives, and the use of online tools; demonstrated project management, organizational, analytical, and problem solving skills; ability to work collaboratively with faculty, reference librarians, special collections staff, and others.

Preferred qualifications include a relevant, terminal degree, particularly Law or History; history of peer-reviewed publications in professional journals; demonstrated use of technology to advance teaching and learning with special collections materials; understanding of issues pertaining to the collection and dissemination of institutional histories; ability to apply basic principles of website design, database management, and standards-based metadata.

Apply on-line at http://jobs.virginia.edu (Posting Number 0620954). Include a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references.

Review of applications will begin on June 1, 2017; however, the position will remain open until filled.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, veterans and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Required qualifications include an ALA-accredited Master’s degree in information/library science, or graduate degree in archival studies, history, law, or a related field with library or archives experience; prior experience in special collections and/or archives; commitment to public services and user-centered reference and instructional services; ability to supervise, mentor, and train special collections and archives personnel; knowledge of current practice and research in archival management policies and procedures; assistance with grant writing, donor relations, and collection solicitation; excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to work effectively with culturally diverse library users and colleagues; excellent archival-based research skills and synthesis of archival materials into historical writing; ability to speak about a range of library issues including scholarly communication, digital initiatives, and the use of online tools; demonstrated project management, organizational, analytical, and problem solving skills; ability to work collaboratively with faculty, reference librarians, special collections staff, and others.

Preferred qualifications include a relevant, terminal degree, particularly Law or History; history of peer-reviewed publications in professional journals; demonstrated use of technology to advance teaching and learning with special collections materials; understanding of issues pertaining to the collection and dissemination of institutional histories; ability to apply basic principles of website design, database management, and standards-based metadata.

http://careers.archivists.org/jobs/9066902/special-collections-librarian.


11. PROJECT PAPER CONSERVATOR, Book of the Dead of Herw —Conservation (Brooklyn, NY, USA)

  • Reports to: Carol Lee Shen Chief Conservator
  • Starting date: Summer 2017 – 1 year
  • Schedule: 35 hours per week, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • Salary: $43,000 per year
  • Full-time, project, non-union position

Requirements: The candidate for this position must have a graduate degree in conservation, or its equivalent. Experience examining and treating both paper and papyrus collections desired. The candidate must have good interpersonal and communication skills, and the ability to plan ahead. The successful candidate must be a team player and participate in the overall goals of the conservation department and the Museum.

Responsibilities: The Project Paper Conservator will along with the Assistant Paper Conservator focus on the conservation of the Book of the Dead of Herw. This project will be to examine, document, and begin treatment of this important ancient papyri document. The project conservator will maintain conservation records; conduct basic analysis; advise on proper installation, storage, and shipment; inventory and order supplies; and complete other duties as assigned.

Apply: Please send cover letter and resume to: job.paper.conservator@brooklynmuseum.org.

Brooklyn Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants for positions are considered without regard to race, creed, color, country of origin, sex, age, citizenship, disability or sexual orientation. Candidates of color are strongly encouraged to apply.

Is there any way that these two seemingly opposing philosophies can be reconciled

In a May 12, 2017 New York Times article by Mike Ives ( “Quake Propels Competing Visions for Restoring Myanmar’s Temples”) about what should be done to restore the Buddhist temples in Bagan, Myanmar—many of which have a checkered conservation past, he notes that the archaeology department has made the decision not to rebuild damaged spires. U Thay Zaniya, a monk is quoted as saying, “In our Buddhist tradition, not having a top on a temple is like having a person without a head. It’s a disgraceful sight.” If the Buddhist position has equal validity to the archaeology department’s position, is there any way that these two seemingly opposing philosophies can be reconciled?

C2CC May Webinars: Deaccessioning and Outdoor Sculpture

May 17, 2017, 2:00 – 3:30 EDT Legal Issues in Collections Management with ARCS

Why do we need this? Insights and Hindsights from Deaccessioning

Sign up: https://www.connectingtocollections.org/why-do-we-need-this/

Join Leslie B. Jones to discuss the multiple steps, and back-steps, of deaccessioning a diverse selection of objects from a collection using the experience of the 2014 to 2017 Cheekwood Permanent Collection deaccession initiative. Topics covered include assessing previous institutional deaccessions, board review and approval, collecting plan development, cross-reference of digital and hard files, institutional transfers, ethnographic materials and indigenous organizations, and donor relations.

May 23, 2017, 2:00 – 3:30 EDT

Inside Out: The Inside Scoop on Your Outdoor Sculpture

Sign up: https://www.connectingtocollections.org/inside-out-outdoor-sculpture/

Are you responsible for carrying out the preservation of outdoor sculpture at your institution or business? Join Joanie Bottkol, Karen Fix, and Margaret Breuker, conservators with the National Park Service, for a webinar about the maintenance of outdoor sculpture: the whys and wherefores, what you can do on your own, and when you might need outside help.

IIC 2018 Congress in Turin: Call for papers and posters (extended deadline)

IIC 2018 Congress
Preventive Conservation: The State of the Art, Turin, 10 – 14 September 2018
Simultaneous call for papers and posters

  • Closing date extended to June 5, 2017

Preventive conservation is a vital and ever-developing field at the centre of museum, site and heritage management, contributing to the sustainability of organisations as well as to the care of their collections. An IIC Congress last addressed issues in preventive conservation in Ottawa in 1994 and much has changed since then: new methods of investigation and analysis; a greater understanding of materials and how they may change or decay with time; developments in conservation practice. For conservators, conservation scientists and all those concerned with preventive conservation there are still as many questions as answers, still matters of concern to be discussed; many of you working in the field have something to say and exciting research to bring to us. To enable you to do this, we have extended the closing date for the call for papers and posters to 5 June 2017!

It will be 24 years since an IIC Congress last specifically addressed issues in preventive conservation, in Ottawa in 1994. The field has developed enormously since 1994: preventive conservation has a central position in museum, site, and heritage management. In addition to capturing developments and changes in scientific understanding and practice, this congress will focus on current issues that exercise our field and will look to the future. It will build on some recent IIC initiatives, including the 2008 Congress on Conservation and Access and the IIC/ICOM-CC environmental guidelines developed at the 2014 Hong Kong Congress.

The location for the 2018 Congress is Turin, a city with a varied cultural history, a strong international profile and innovative industrial centre and, at the same time, a comfortable, relaxed ambience. We are delighted that our partners in the 2018 Congress are the City of Turin, the Italian Regional Group of IIC (IGIIC), Turismo Torino e Provincia and the Centro per la Conservazione ed il Restauro “La Venaria Reale”, which, most appropriately, is housed in one of the Savoy palaces, La Venaria Reale.

Please don’t delay! We now invite paper and poster proposals that address the issues defining the state of the art in preventive conservation and latest practice. A full list of suggested topics and themes and full details for submission can be found at the main IIC Congress web-site page here:  www.iiconservation.org/congress

Please note that this is a simultaneous call for paper and poster proposals: there will be no later separate call for posters. IIC invites you to submit your proposal for a paper or poster in English in about 500 words (3500 characters) via the website here: www.iiconservation.org/congress. If you have an IIC account, please log in first; if not, please register on the front page of the site for an IIC account before submitting a proposal. Please do not include any illustrations with your proposal submission and please indicate if your proposal is for a paper or for a poster. The deadline for the receipt of proposals has been extended from May 8 to June 5, 2017.

We look forward to seeing you in Turin!

Jobs Digest: May 15, 2017

  1. Senior Historic Buildings Adviser, Donald Insall Associates
  2. Senior Design and Conservation Officer, Suffolk Coastal and Waveney District Councils
  3. Assistant Paper Conservator (Revised), The Museum of Modern Art
  4. Executive Director, Open Preservation Foundation
  5. Assistant/Associate Conservator of Furniture & Woodwork, Philadelphia Museum of Art
  6. Associate Objects Conservator, Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco
  7. Sculpture Technician, The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
  8. Conservator of Paper or Photographs (Revised), Williamstown Art Conservation Center

1. SENIOR HISTORIC BUILDINGS ADVISER, Donald Insall Associates (London, UK)

  • Applications deadline: May 22, 2017
  • Permanent, full time but open to discussions about flexible and/or part-time contracts

With nearly sixty years’ experience in the restoration and remodelling of listed buildings, Donald Insall Associates is uniquely placed to provide strategic advice on change and development within the historic environment. Since 2000, the practice has offered a dedicated Historic Buildings Consultancy service to support clients embarking on heritage projects at all scales, from urban masterplans to individual houses. The 15-strong team comprises architects, designers, architectural historians and former conservation officers and Historic England inspectors who work alongside a client’s chosen architect to analyse what is special about a building or place, guide alterations, and support clients through the planning process. The team’s overarching aim is to use their understanding of the past to revitalise historic buildings and, where appropriate, to guide new interventions. The historic environment is seen not as unchanging, but as an ever-evolving part of our identity, an inspiration for new design and a catalyst for regeneration.

We welcome applications from candidates who have the following qualifications, skills and experience:

  • demonstrable passion for the historic environment, and the ability to communicate this to non–experts in an inspiring and accessible manner;
  • a sound knowledge and understanding of all periods of architectural history, and of British history generally;
  • the ability to confidently draw together information gained from site visits and archival sources into succinct and accurate text which is a delight to read;
  • an eye for excellence in design and architecture, and the ability to communicate this effectively with design and non-design professionals alike (applications from qualified architects would be particularly welcome;
  • The following qualifications could be relevant: BA Architectural History, Art History, Archaeology, History or MSt or Post Graduate certificate/diploma in Building Conservation, Town Planning etc. or other Masters-level degrees);
  • demonstrable experience of taking a creative and constructive approach to historic building conservation;
  • strong negotiating and advocacy skills, and the ability to develop proposals within a design team that meet the aspirations of a building’s owners and users and the requirements of the statutory authorities, while respecting the significance of historic places;
  • an understanding of the commercial realities relating to historic buildings and development;
  • high levels of self-sufficiency, motivation and adaptability and the ability to meet tight deadlines and to work effectively as part of a team;
  • familiarity with the roles of various stakeholders in the heritage sector, such as local authorities, Historic England, and national and local amenity groups;
  • knowledge of the English planning system and the National Planning Policy Framework;
  • substantial experience in either the private, public or third sector, in a role which required similar skills;
  • previous experience of mentoring junior members of staff would be an advantage.

DOWNLOAD the job description.

Please email a CV and covering letter to Erica Bomphrey, erica.bomphrey@insall-architects.co.uk stating your notice period and salary expectations. You may be requested to bring samples of your written or project work to the interview.


2. SENIOR DESIGN AND CONSERVATION OFFICER, Suffolk Coastal and Waveney District Councils

  • Closing date: 1pm, 28 May 2017
  • Interview date: 8 June 2017
  • £30,153 – £33,437 pa*

*Plus essential car user allowance, professional fees and relocation allowance considered.

We have an exciting opportunity to join our well respected Design and Conservation Team within our joint service across Suffolk Coastal and Waveney District Councils. The post is based at our Lowestoft office within the Waveney District, which has a distinctive local character made up of 1200+ listed buildings and 16 conservation areas, an attractive coastline and areas of outstanding natural beauty.

We operate, however, as shared service partners with Suffolk Coastal District Council; leading the way in partnership working in delivering high quality and cost effective outcomes for our customers across both Districts. This includes working closely with the Local Design Review Panel and supporting annual design awards to exemplary projects in our area.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated professional with a thorough understanding of relevant legislation and an ability to negotiate to achieve key objectives. You will have a passion for the historic and contemporary built environment and display an independent and positive approach to safeguarding the heritage of the Waveney District. You will be skilled at assessing development proposals and their impacts and providing technical and design advice to listed building occupiers and those in conservation areas.

You need to be able to demonstrate post qualification experience in a design and conservation role and be a full member of the IHBC. The role involves public engagement, consultation and the opportunity to work on some of the major regeneration and redevelopment opportunities in Lowestoft. You will have your own budget to use to support your role and the opportunity to work on a Heritage Action Zone bid for Lowestoft.

In return, we offer a range of benefits including flexible working hours, payment of professional fees, access to the Local Government Pension Scheme and free car parking at your place of employment, which are the new offices at Riverside House in Lowestoft.

In addition, we believe that our location offers a truly outstanding quality of life with a heritage coastline of national significance, charming historic market towns and villages, exemplar ecology habitats and a well established cultural setting. Our area offers low house price inflation, a strong record of achievements in our schools and a renowned leisure and recreation offer.

For an informal discussion regarding this post, please contact Phillip Rowson, Planning Development Manager on (01394) 444442 or Robert Scrimgeour, Principal Design and Conservation Officer on (01394) 444616.

APPLY ONLINE for more information and to download an application form; please return your completed form to: hr@eastsuffolk.gov.uk.


3. ASSISTANT PAPER CONSERVATOR (REVISED), The Museum of Modern Art (New York, NY, USA)

  • Application deadline: June 2, 2017

This is an update to the announcement published on March 31, 2017.

The Museum of Modern Art is currently accepting applications for the position of Assistant or Associate Paper Conservator to work within the Paper Conservation section of the David Booth Conservation Department and Center. This role involves working collaboratively on a wide-range of modern and contemporary works across all curatorial departments, and participating in all departmental activities, including examination, documentation, treatment, and research of collection materials, as well as exhibition, collection care, loan, and courier responsibilities. Reporting to the Paper Conservator and The Agnes Gund Chief Conservator, the incumbent will have the following specific responsibilities:

  • Examines, documents, and treats paper works in the collection through written and photographic documentation.
  • Participates in all departmental activities, including acquisition, preparation of works for exhibition, collection care, loans, and research.
  • Monitors hinging, matting, storage, environmental conditions, and other preventive conservation steps for the collection on an on-going basis.
  • Assists with the maintenance of work areas in the conservation lab, including researching supplies and equipment, maintaining materials, and replenishing supplies.
  • Works collaboratively across departments at the Museum, including Conservation, curatorial, Exhibition Planning and Design, and Collection Management and Exhibition Registration.
  • Conducts research centering on treatment protocols, artist materials, and methods.
  • Participates in training and supervision of interns and fellows.

Qualified candidates will possess a Master’s degree in the conservation of works on paper. Two years’ experience with works on paper in a museum setting or equivalent is required for the assistant conservator level; five years’ experience is required for the associate conservator level. Experience performing all aspects of the treatment of works on paper and related artworks, with adherence to the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice of the American Institute for Conservation. The Museum of Modern Art has an emphasis on the collecting and preservation of contemporary art, therefore demonstrated interest and experience in the conservation of contemporary works is strongly encouraged. Knowledge and experience of documentation procedures, including digital photography and other imaging techniques. Strong interpersonal and written communication skills. Ability to work cooperatively on projects and independently on treatments as required. Ability to travel. Experience engaging with artists and their studios is desirable. Familiarity with the Museum’s collection management system, The Museum System, is also desirable.

Final title assignment dependent on credentials of finalist.

If hired, individual must successfully complete a security threat assessment through the Department of Homeland Security.

Candidates must submit a detailed letter of interest stating education, work history, involvement with modern and/or contemporary art, and research interests. The inclusion of a writing sample, either published work or work-related documentation or research, is strongly recommended. The application should include the name of three references, but letters from references are not requested. No treatment reports are requested and should not be included. Candidates invited for interviews will be asked to supply treatment reports at that time. All material, in digital form, should be sent to jobs@moma.org by no later than June 2, 2017.

The Museum of Modern Art is an equal opportunity employer and considers all candidates for employment regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, creed, disability, marital status, sexual orientation or political affiliation.


4. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, Open Preservation Foundation (Europe)

  • Application deadline: June 7, 2017at 12:00 noon BST

The Open Preservation Foundation is looking for an experienced, motivated and visionary leader to fill the position of Executive Director.

The Foundation is an international not for profit membership organisation providing open source digital preservation technology and knowledge to memory institutions around the world.

  • Hours: ​ Part­ time (24 hours/week)
  • Contract type: ​ Fixed term for 12 months, renewable upon mutual agreement
  • Salary: £45,000+ a year pro rata, depending on skills and experience
  • Reports to: ​ Board of Directors
  • Location: ​ Negotiable (with significant travel within EU and beyond)

The Executive Director is expected:

  • To lead, manage, and develop the Foundation and build an international community of practitioners working in the field of digital preservation.
  • To grow the membership of the Foundation and ensure that member organisations benefit from their association with the organisation.
  • To create strategies and seek funding to sustain and develop the Foundation’s open source digital preservation solutions and services.
  • To provide leadership and management of OPF staff (currently 2.0FTE) and budgets (c. £350k/annum) and to run the organisation responsibly and with accountability.

To see the full job description and details of how to apply visit: http://openpreservation.org/news/job-opening-executive-director-of-the-open-preservation-foundation/.

The closing date is Wednesday 7 June 2017 at 12 noon BST.


5. ASSISTANT/ASSOCIATE CONSERVATOR OF FURNITURE & WOODWORK, Philadelphia Museum of Art (Philadelphia, PA, USA)

  • Application Deadline: June 16, 2017

The Philadelphia Museum of Art is offering a three-year position beginning the summer of 2017 in the conservation of American furniture and woodwork. The Assistant/Associate Conservator will work under the supervision of the Senior Conservator of Furniture and Woodwork to examine, research, analyze, and treat pieces from the Museum’s collection of American furniture dating from 1650 to 1840 in preparation for the publication of a catalogue in both printed and online formats.

Specifically, you will:

    • Work closely with the furniture conservation team to examine, research, analyze, and treat early American furniture in preparation for publication
    • Participate as an engaged and active member of the Furniture and Woodwork Conservation Department and in related activities that support the overall mission of the Conservation Division

Your diverse background includes:

  • Advanced training in conservation, or equivalent qualifications, with a minimum of four additional years of experience, preferably in a museum setting
  • Strong manual skills relating to traditional furniture making, woodworking, finishing, and carving
  • Additional skills in microscopy, surface treatment, and minimally intrusive upholstery are desirable
  • Demonstrated ability to establish priorities, develop a work plan and complete projects within deadlines
  • Object conservators with significant experience in the conservation of wooden artifacts and/or painted wood will be considered

How to Apply: Please submit a single document that contains a cover letter stating interests and qualifications, and a résumé with your online application.

In addition to the application materials, two confidential supporting letters from conservation professionals familiar with your work should be sent directly by email or mail to the attention of Behrooz Salimnejad, The Elaine S. Harrington Senior Conservator of Furniture and Woodwork, at bsalimnejad@philamuseum.org or write to P.O. Box 7646, Philadelphia, PA 19101-7646 USA.

 


6. ASSOCIATE OBJECTS CONSERVATOR, Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco (San Francisco, CA, USA)

  • Application deadline: Open until filled

The Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco are seeking an Associate Objects Conservator to perform highly skilled work related to the conservation of works of art spanning a wide range of materials and cultures. The primary responsibility of this position is the long-term preservation, conservation, and technical study of over 120,000 objects in the permanent collection of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, as well as duties related to temporary exhibitions and the lending of objects to other institutions.

Typical Duties and Responsibilities:

  1. Undertakes conservation of objects in the curatorial areas of Art of Africa, Oceania and the Americas, European Decorative Arts and Sculpture, American Decorative Arts and Sculpture, Ancient Art and Contemporary Art.
  2. Examines objects for questions concerning material identification and technology, including analysis using X-radiography and XRF spectrometry.
  3. Prepares and archives visual and written documentation of treatments and research.
  4. Participates in preventative care of the collections and loan items during exhibition, storage and transport.
  5. Assists with supervision of departmental contract conservators, fellows, and students.
  6. Confers with curatorial, conservation, exhibitions and facilities staff on conservation and environmental issues.
  7. Shares knowledge related to conservation and technical study of the collections through presentations, publications, social media, public tours and/or creation of exhibition content.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Education, Training and Experience:
  • Master’s degree from a recognized graduate conservation program or the equivalent.
  • Minimum of five years of museum experience in the field of objects conservation.
  • Participation in professional and skills development throughout conservation career.

Knowledge, Abilities and Skills:

  • Strong knowledge of conservation methods, techniques and procedures involved in the maintenance and care of a museum collection of fine arts.
  • Ability to complete conservation projects within budgets and schedules.
  • Ability to collaborate creatively and communicate clearly in writing and conversation with other conservators, museum staff, colleagues and the public.
  • Strong computer skills and knowledge of standard imaging and office software and collection management systems.

FAMSF offers a competitive salary and generous benefits package.

For more information, and to apply online, please visit: www.famsf.org/about/employment-famsf.


7. SCULPTURE TECHNICIAN, The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (Kansas City, MO, USA)

  • Division: Conservation and Collections Management
  • Department: Conservation
  • Supervisor: Conservation Associate, Objects
  • Pay grade: F NE
  • Schedule: Part Time Seasonal: May 1st through Mid-November.
  • 3hrs/day, Monday thru Friday, flexible hours. During larger projects, full days will be required.

Position function: To provide daily maintenance of thirty-three sculptures in the Donald J. Hall Sculpture Park and others in the museum collection donated by the Hall Family Foundation primarily during the spring, summer and fall seasons.

Primary responsibilities:

  • To clean, wax and repair coatings on the sculptures.
  • To report and document damages as required in written and photographic forms
  • To assist the Conservator of Objects, Associate Conservator and Conservation Associate in performing treatments or other duties as needed in the sculpture park
  • To perform additional duties as assigned.
  • Maintain Noguchi sculptures and fountain and monitor and adjust water chemistry.
  • Survey, monitor and document condition of W. De Maria sculpture.
  • Must be able to work with many different departments and personalities across the institution to achieve desired results.

Qualifications:

  • Prefer an undergraduate degree in studio art, art history and/or chemistry or equivalent experience.
  • Must have manual dexterity and the patience of a craftsperson.
  • Must be comfortable lifting heavy equipment (up to 50lbs.) and working on scaffolding.
  • Must have the ability to do strenuous work in hot and humid conditions and exposure to sun.
  • Must be detail oriented and able to interact with staff members and the general public in a polite and courteous manner.
  • Digital photography skills and familiarity with related software programs (Photoshop) are essential.
  • Must be self-motivated with the ability to work independently and prioritize the positions daily schedule.

The sculpture collection consists of bronze, stone, wood, glass, gilt and painted fiberglass and metals. Broad knowledge of materials is beneficial.

*This position description may not be a complete list of all responsibilities expected of this position.

Physical demands: While performing the duties of this job, the Sculpture Technician is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; climb ladders; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The worker must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color visions, peripheral vision, and depth perception. Must also be physically capable of operating a motor vehicle and have a current driver’s license.


8. CONSERVATOR OF PAPER OR PHOTOGRAPHS (REVISED), Williamstown Art Conservation Center (Williamstown, MA, USA)

  • Position open until filled

This is an update to the announcement published on October 19, 2016.

The Williamstown Art Conservation Center is seeking a full-time conservator for the paper/photograph conservation department. The conservator will participate in all departmental activities including examination, documentation, analysis, and treatment. The successful applicant will also carry out consultations with museum curators and other WACC staff, assess member collections as well as supervise interns. The WACC’s paper/photo conservation department is a large, well equipped lab, currently with two paper conservators and a pre-program intern.

The Williamstown Center is a non-profit regional conservation laboratory in operation since 1977. It serves 59 member institutions in the northeast and south, as well as a wide variety of nonmember, nonprofit, corporate and private collections. The member consortium holds collections containing a wide variety of ancient to modern fine art by western and Asian artists and artisans.

Williamstown is surrounded by natural beauty within the cultural center of the Berkshire Hills of Massachusetts. The Conservation facility is located within the Lunder Center at Stone Hill, a Tadeo Ando designed building, on the campus of the Clark Art Institute. The Clark houses the Manton Research Center and the Research and Academic Program. The Clark library, includes more than 240,000 volumes and is one of the nation’s premier art history libraries. The Clark also houses and co-sponsors the Williams College Graduate Program in the History of Art.

Requirements include:

  • Graduate-level conservation degree with a specialization in
  • paper or photographic materials.
  • A minimum of 4 years of post-graduate experience.
  • Experience with analysis, documentation, conservation treatment, and preventive care for paper or photographic materials following ethical standards for professional conservation practice.
  • Computer proficiency with MS Office products.
  • Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Training in emergency preparedness/response would be a plus.
  • Experience with, or interest in, carrying out facility assessments.
  • A portfolio of treatments and research projects will be required of applicants selected for an interview.

Benefit package includes annual research funds (including paid leave), health, dental and life insurance, retirement, vacation, sick leave, holidays and access to Williams College cultural and recreational facilities. Salary will be commensurate with experience.

Send cover letter, CV and two references to Leslie Paisley, Williamstown Art Conservation Center, 227 South Street, Williamstown, MA 01267 USA.

For more information contact lpaisley@williamstownart.org. More information is available on the WACC’s website: www.williamstownart.org.

Preparing for the 45th Annual Meeting: ECPN’s Updated Tips for Conference Attendance

In anticipation of the 45th Annual Meeting in Chicago later this month, the Emerging Conservation Professionals Network has updated our “Tips for Conference Attendance.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Access a PDF version of this Tips Sheet, which includes hyperlinks, by clicking here. We look forward to seeing you in Chicago!

ECPN Interviews: East Asian Art Conservation

To promote awareness and a clearer understanding of different pathways into specializations that require particular training, the Emerging Conservation Professional Network (ECPN) is conducting a series of interviews with conservators in these specialties.  We’ve asked our interviewees to share some thoughts about their career paths, which we hope will inspire new conservators and provide valuable insight into these areas of our professional field.  This post is continuing our series on East Asian Art Conservation, where we have posts from Sara Ribbans and Yi-Hsia Hsiao.

This post is continuing our series on East Asian Art Conservation with Hsin-Chen Tsai, an Associate Conservator at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston in the Asian Conservation Studio. In 2008, she graduated from National Tainan University of Arts in Taiwan, where she specialized in Asian paintings conservation.  She received a BFA degree in Art Education with a thesis in Art Education from the Department of Art at the National Changhua University of Education.

Hsin-Chen will be presenting at the upcoming 45th AIC Annual Meeting in Chicago on the treatment of the Korean Buddhist Sutra that she mentions here– we invite you to hear more at her presentation!

Continue reading “ECPN Interviews: East Asian Art Conservation”