Associate Paper Conservator/Paper Conservator
About The Position
The Getty Research Institute’s Conservation and Preservation Department seeks a permanent Associate Paper Conservator or Paper Conservator responsible for exhibition preparation. The role joins a team of conservators, mount-makers, and pre-program and graduate interns, and reports to the GRI’s Head of Conservation and Preservation. This full-time position primarily examines and treats paper-based artefacts in preparation for exhibitions. It participates in exhibition planning and installation, contributes input to the exhibition process, and may conduct research and writing for exhibition didactics and catalogues. The conservator also contributes to research into the collections and methods for their long-term preservation, including preventative care, and keeps current with research and advances in conservation. The role works collaboratively with colleagues across the department, the GRI, and other Getty programs. The Getty Research Institute advances knowledge and understanding of the visual arts and their histories through collecting, public programs, collaborations, exhibitions, publications, digital services, and residential scholars programs. Its Research Library and Special Collections serve an international community of scholars and the interested public.
Requirements
- For the Associate Paper Conservator level: an MA in conservation or equivalent degree and 5–6 years of conservation experience.
- For the Paper Conservator level: an MA in conservation or equivalent degree and 7–10 years of conservation experience.
- Demonstrated ability in the examination, analysis, documentation, and treatment of paper-based artefacts.
- Expert hand skills and a record of successful conservation treatments.
- Extensive experience with exhibition preparation.
- Advanced knowledge of the chemical and physical properties of materials, conservation materials, and deterioration processes.
- Familiarity and experience with institutional preventative conservation practices for collections and exhibitions.
- Strong organizational skills, including the ability to prioritize and meet deadlines.
- Ability to remain calm under pressure.
- Creative thinking and excellent problem-solving abilities.
- Strong interpersonal, written, verbal, and listening skills; strong communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate with complex cross-disciplinary teams and build long-term relationships.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, AirTable, and Adobe Creative Suite.
- Knowledge of personal safety equipment and standards.
- Applicants must be authorized to work for Getty in the United States without employer-based immigration sponsorship, currently or in the future.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with Oddy testing.
- Knowledge of TMS.
- Interest in disseminating work to the field and the public, and in training and mentoring.
Responsibilities
- Examine and treat paper-based objects in preparation for exhibitions.
- Perform conservation treatments to the highest current standards and prepare comprehensive documentation of object condition and conservation activities.
- Participate in exhibition planning and installation and provide input into the exhibition process.
- Contribute to research and writing for exhibition didactics and catalogues as needed.
- Conduct research into the collections and methodologies for their long-term preservation, including preventative care.
- Contribute to the development and maintenance of standards for handling, storage, installation, packing, and shipping collections.
- Advise curators, archivists, and other staff on conservation matters.
- Collaborate with department colleagues, curators, exhibition coordinators, registrars, art handlers, archivists, and other departments on exhibition preparation and complex projects.
- Publish and present research; conduct outreach and education for general audiences as applicable.
- Supervise interns, staff, and contractors as applicable, and provide training to staff, interns, professionals, and the public as needed.
- Remain current with research and advances in the conservation field.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage beginning on the date of hire; Getty pays 75%–95% of the premium depending on the plan selected.
- 403(b) employee investment retirement plan with up to a 5% Getty match.
- Getty contribution of 6% on behalf of the employee to a 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.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
