Associate Conservator of Objects & Sculpture

Museum of Fine Arts, Houston•West University Place, TX

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH) seeks an Associate or Full Conservator of Objects and Sculpture to join a collaborative, cross-disciplinary team committed to the preservation, study, and interpretation of the museum’s expansive and diverse collection. This is a full-time position where conservation is integrated into broader museum practices, with an emphasis on preserving and expanding understanding of 5,000 years of global visual art creation. The MFAH holds an extensive and increasingly diverse collection, with ongoing growth in modern and contemporary art. The successful candidate will possess strong expertise in a broad range of both inorganic and organic materials and techniques across various periods, with significant experience in modern and contemporary works strongly preferred. The museum is dedicated to intellectual rigor, transparency in decision-making, and a workplace culture rooted in mutual respect and collegiality. The ideal conservator demonstrates in-depth knowledge of materials and techniques across historical and contemporary practice, brings a wide range of treatment experience and sound judgment in complex decision-making, works effectively within interdisciplinary teams while maintaining independence and accountability, recognizes the ethical and cultural dimensions of conservation, and communicates clearly and respectfully.

Requirements

Graduate degree in Conservation from a recognized program, or equivalent education and professional training.
Minimum five years (Associate), or ten years (Full) of post-graduate experience in objects conservation.
Comprehensive knowledge of museum standards, collection care protocols, and ethical guidelines.
Demonstrated record of professional achievement, including significant treatment projects and scholarly contributions.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
Strong organizational and documentation skills; proficiency with museum databases, imaging systems, and standard software.
Ability to manage a complex workload and meet institutional deadlines.
Legal eligibility to work in the United States.
For appointment at the Full Conservator level, candidates should demonstrate sustained professional commitment, an established record of scholarship, and experience guiding complex projects or mentoring colleagues.

Nice To Haves

Significant experience in modern and contemporary works strongly preferred.
Experience with modern and contemporary materials desired.

Responsibilities

Examine, document, and treat our three-dimensional works and sculpture in accordance with the AIC Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.
Develop and execute treatment plans for works ranging from historical to contemporary materials.
Produce thorough documentation, including technical analysis, material descriptions, and exhibition and handling recommendations.
Provide condition assessments for acquisitions and loans, advising on long-term preservation strategies.
Contribute to preventive conservation planning, storage design, and exhibition preparation.
Collaborate closely with Conservation Science to pursue analytical research that clarifies fabrication methods, material behavior, and deterioration mechanisms.
Participate in collection-based research and contribute to the field through publications, lectures, and conference presentations.
Mentor interns, fellows, and emerging professionals, supporting a culture of shared knowledge and professional growth.
Engage in public-facing initiatives, including gallery talks and educational programming, to advance understanding of conservation practice.
Contribute to departmental planning, emergency preparedness, and strategic institutional initiatives.