Assistant Conservator

Evergreene Architectural Arts•New York, NY

13d•$62,000 - $75,000

About The Position

As an Assistant Conservator, you will assist with the technical and administrative aspects of conservation projects under the guidance of senior staff. The Assistant Conservator applies technical knowledge, scientific understanding, and aesthetic sensitivity to help preserve and restore a wide range of cultural heritage materials in both studio and field environments. Responsibilities include conducting materials testing and research, preparing documentation, performing surveys and assessments, supporting site treatments, and drafting reports. This position combines hands-on conservation work with research, documentation, and quality control responsibilities. Our teams work on a range of project types ranging from smaller scale assessments and studio treatments to large-scale multi-year construction projects. We specialize in a range of materials including but not limited to decorative interiors and finishes, historic plaster, murals, indoor and outdoor sculptures and monuments, as well as building exteriors and industrial artefacts. An interest or specific experience within one of these areas of specialization is required. This role is based in Brooklyn, NY and includes frequent travel.

Requirements

1–5 years of professional conservation experience, internship, or apprenticeship.
Master’s degree in art conservation, historic preservation, or related discipline.
Ability to perform approved conservation treatments with limited oversight, demonstrating strong technical judgment and accountability.
Strong organizational and observational skills with high attention to detail.
Foundational knowledge of conservation materials, ethics, and techniques. Including material and chemical handling procedures.
Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
Proficiency in photography, digital documentation, and technical report writing.
Ability to read drawings and interpret project specifications.
Artistic ability with a keen eye for color, texture, and detail.
Strong manual dexterity
Ability to work well within a team environment with fellow conservators, technicians, and trades people.
Comfortable working at heights, on scaffolding, and in varied environmental conditions.
OSHA 10 or 30 certification preferred (or willingness to obtain after hire). Additional safety certifications will be required after hiring.
Ability to travel to project sites anywhere in the United States.

Responsibilities

Assist with condition assessments, materials testing, and development of treatment methodologies.
Perform conservation treatments such as cleaning, consolidation, stabilization, and inpainting under supervision.
Prepare artworks/architectural elements for disassembly, transport, and/or reinstallation. Following industry standards for the handling, packing, and transport of art and artefacts.
Prepare and organize materials, tools, and workspaces for studio and field projects.
Support daily field operations and logistics in coordination with senior conservators, forepersons, or project managers.
Ensure all work adheres to professional ethics, QA/QC protocols, safety regulations, and project specifications.
Participate in mock-ups, research, and the development of innovative materials or techniques.
Assist in training and mentoring technicians.
Perform quality control oversight of technicians and subcontractors when assigned.
Capture and manage photographic documentation, maintaining organized and accurate visual records for each project. Following established company and industry standards.
Prepare drawings, annotated photographs, and written records for surveys and treatments.
Assist in producing project reports, annotated images, drawings, and digital documentation for client deliverables.
Participate and contribute to client and internal project meetings, providing written field reports and documentation of project status.
Communicate regularly with conservation leadership and project managers to report progress and resolve field challenges.
Follow and enforce EverGreene’s safety protocols, lead daily safety briefings, and ensure OSHA compliance on job sites and studio spaces.
Maintain clean, organized, and compliant work environments in both field and studio environments.
Receive mentorship and training from experienced conservators and craftspeople to expand technical and material knowledge.
Support and assist in training junior technicians when applicable.
Foster teamwork, professionalism, and a learning-oriented culture on-site and in the studio.
Provide technical input to Business Development to support accurate project estimating and procedures. This may include participation in preliminary site visits and client discussions.
Collaborate with internal and external marketing efforts through project documentation and technical summaries.
Support marketing and outreach efforts through project presentations and publications when requested.
Participation in external industry organizations such as American Institute for Conservation (AIC), Association of Preservation Technology (APT), or equivalents.