Assistant Photograph Conservator

The Morgan Library & Museum • New York, NY

6d • Onsite

About The Position

The Morgan Library & Museum invites applications for a full-time, project-based Assistant Photograph Conservator. The successful candidate will join a small department of experienced conservators and preparators who care for the Morgan’s exceptional and varied collections. The Assistant Photograph Conservator will support the Morgan’s mission to preserve, interpret, and develop its collections, while making them accessible to a broad and diverse audience. Reporting to the Sherman Fairchild Director of Conservation, and working with paper conservation staff, the Assistant Photograph Conservator will be responsible for the examination, documentation, technical study, and treatment of a sizeable incoming photography collection. They will also participate in preventive conservation activities promoting safe housing, storage, handling, imaging, and display of these materials. This is a project-funded position with a 21-month term. Work will commence in December 2026.

Requirements

• A graduate degree (M.A., M.S.) in conservation (or equivalent training and experience).
• A minimum of 2 years work experience in photography conservation or paper conservation with proven experience working with photograph collections.
• Knowledge and experience of a range of simple and complex treatment options for photographic-based materials.
• Ability to execute appropriate treatments with accuracy and precision, as demonstrated by a portfolio.
• Keen observational skills, applied to the understanding and interpretation of photographic materials, techniques and working methods, and the effects of past and present conservation treatments.
• Knowledge of the chemical and physical properties of photographic objects and the substances used to treat them.
• Awareness of analytical or other techniques for identifying these materials and/or determining changes in them.
• Familiarity with digital, spectral, and other technical imaging as used in the study of historical artifacts and documentation of conservation treatments.
• Familiarity with Adobe Photoshop, Bridge. and processing of RAW image files.
• Understanding of and adherence to the AIC Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice, including written and photographic documentation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Commitment to collegial and collaborative work across departments.
• Proficiency with Windows environment (especially Microsoft Office, including PowerPoint), Gmail and Google Drive.
• Ability to learn and use the Morgan’s collections and information systems (TMS).
• Excellent level of manual dexterity and visual acuity.
• Ability to work standing as needed for successful completion of conservation treatments.
• Ability to use appropriate PPE to protect against moderate levels of dust, mold, or chemicals used in treatment.
• Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States.

Nice To Haves

• Interest or experience in the conservation of modern and contemporary works.
• Experience or familiarity with The Museum System (TMS) and/or Conservation Studio.

Responsibilities

• Examination, documentation, technical study, and treatment of a sizeable incoming photography collection.
• Participate in preventive conservation activities promoting safe housing, storage, handling, imaging, and display of these materials.

Benefits

• excellent benefits

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level