As a highly engaged member of the Conservation team, the Paper Conservator addresses the needs of paper, photographs, papyrus, and Asian screens and scrolls in our holdings and collections, under the direction of the Chief Conservator.
Qualifications:
Graduate degree in conservation from a recognized training program, or equivalent experience, with a specialization in works on paper
Thorough understanding of current best practices in the field of conservation, as well as the American Institute for Conservation’s Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice
Exemplary hand skills and experience with conservation treatments including hinge removal, tape removal, consolidation, adhesive reduction, surface cleaning, stain reduction, compensation for loss, and tear repair.
Demonstrated experience performing conservation documentation using digital photography, x-radiography, infrared reflectography, and multi band imaging (MBI), and familiarity with x-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (pXRF), polarized light microscopy (PLM), and paint cross-section analysis
Ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and work effectively under pressure to meet deadlines
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Team player, able to participate in the overall goals of our Conservation department and to work with Museum staff, including curators, art handlers, registrars and exhibition designers, in order to ensure the care of our collections
Responsibilities:
Collaborate affectively with Curators and the Curatorial team to successfully preserve the museum’s collection works and fulfill the museum’s mission and goals.
Perform a full range of technical examination and treatment procedures on paper, photographs and papyri in our encyclopedic collection.
Conduct moderate treatments on Asian screens and scrolls
Assist the Museum’s maintainer/framer with framing needs and design new frame packages
Maintain accurate conservation records
Conduct archival and scientific research, and work with living artists to gather information about the creation, preservation, and display of artworks in the collection
Evaluate and process external loan requests
Oversee interns and assist them with conservation treatment and other related projects
Participate in the lab’s preventive conservation, education, and development activities
Other duties and tasks as assigned
80% of this position will be spent on activities related to direct care as defined by the AAM.
