Associate Conservator of Decorative Arts Conservation

J. Paul Getty Trust, TheLos Angeles, CA
Onsite

About The Position

The J. Paul Getty Museum seeks a qualified furniture conservator to join the Department of Decorative Arts and Sculpture Conservation. This limited-term (2-year) position will focus on the conservation treatment of French furniture, specifically ébénisterie, in preparation for the reinstallation of the Decorative Arts collections. The role involves close collaboration with internal teams and external experts to develop and execute treatment plans, conduct technical studies, and document all work. Advanced training will be provided through master classes led by European experts. The position is open at either the Assistant Conservator or Associate Conservator level, depending on qualifications, with a targeted hiring range for Assistant Conservator of $72,380.88 - $95,895.28 annually and for Associate Conservator of $85,422.48 - $113,185.28 annually. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without visa sponsorship.

Requirements

  • Assistant Conservator: Bachelor’s degree; MA in conservation or equivalent degree preferred
  • Assistant Conservator: 2 - 4 years experience in conservation
  • Associate Conservator: MA in conservation or equivalent degree
  • Associate Conservator: 5 - 7 years experience in conservation
  • Working knowledge and experience in furniture conservation
  • Demonstrated abilities in the examination, analysis, documentation and treatment of furniture
  • Highly developed hand skills and attention to detail
  • Sound knowledge of the development of design and fabrication techniques of historic furniture
  • Ability to operate and knowledge of technical, analytical, and imaging equipment
  • Proven research capabilities
  • Good knowledge of the chemistry of collection materials and their deterioration processes
  • Strong organizational skills including the ability to prioritize and meet deadlines
  • Strong interpersonal skills including written, verbal and listening skills
  • Creative thinking and solutions-based problem-solving abilities
  • Proven ability to work both independently and as part of a team
  • Knowledge of personal safety equipment and standards
  • Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States for Getty, without the need for current or future visa sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

  • Prefer Masters level degree in conservation from a recognized graduate training program

Responsibilities

  • Conservation treatment of French furniture in the collections of the J. Paul Getty Museum, focusing on works of ébénisterie, in preparation for their installation in the newly renovated Decorative Arts galleries at the Getty Center.
  • Close collaboration with Getty conservators, curators and scientists as well as expert consultants to develop treatment goals and specific proposals.
  • Design and coordination of technical studies necessary for treatment planning and evaluation.
  • Preparation of written and visual documentation of treatment and research.

Benefits

  • Medical, Dental and Vision insurance coverage, starting on date of hire. Getty pays 75%-95% of the premium, depending on the plan selected.
  • 403(b) Employee Investment retirement plan – with up to 5% Getty Match
  • Getty contribution of 6%, on behalf of employee, to 401(a) retirement account
  • Educational Assistance and professional development
  • Paid Vacation, Sick and Personal Days
  • 12 Paid Holidays
  • Many positions have bi-weekly Off-Fridays
  • On-Site Fitness Center at Getty Center
  • Community service opportunities
© 2026 Teal Labs, Inc
Privacy PolicyTerms of Service