Conservation Intern

Newfields a Place for Nature & The Arts•Indianapolis, IN

22h•Onsite

About The Position

The Conservation Intern will gain practical experience in museum conservation and collections care. This role involves assisting with collections care, preventive conservation, documentation, and special projects under direct supervision. The intern will develop skills in condition assessment, conservation documentation, and preventive conservation strategies, while learning professional conservation ethics and stewardship practices. This internship provides foundational experience for future graduate study or careers in conservation and museum work.

Requirements

Current enrollment in or recent completion of an undergraduate or graduate program in Conservation, Art History, Museum Studies, Chemistry, Materials Science, Anthropology, Archaeology, or a related field.
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
Ability to follow established procedures and maintain accurate records.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
Demonstrated interest in cultural heritage preservation and conservation.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in a museum, gallery, archives, library, or conservation laboratory setting.
Familiarity with collections management systems and museum practices.
Experience with photography and digital documentation.
Basic understanding of conservation ethics and preventive conservation principles.

Responsibilities

Assist with the handling, movement, storage, and rehousing of collection objects.
Support environmental monitoring activities, including temperature, relative humidity, light, and pest management programs.
Conduct routine collection condition assessments and assist with condition reporting.
Assist in implementing preventive conservation measures for exhibitions, storage, and transportation of objects.
Photograph objects before, during, and after treatment activities.
Assist with maintaining conservation records and treatment documentation.
Enter and update information within collections management and conservation databases.
Organize digital and physical conservation files.
Assist conservators with examination, testing, treatment preparation, and selected conservation activities under direct supervision.
Prepare materials, tools, and workspaces for conservation treatments.
Participate in research related to conservation techniques, materials, and best practices.
Support special conservation projects as assigned.
Assist with object preparation for exhibition installation and deinstallation.
Help create mounts, supports, and storage solutions as appropriate.
Support safe packing and unpacking of collection objects.
Participate in exhibition planning meetings when appropriate.
Attend departmental meetings, workshops, and training opportunities.
Learn museum standards and ethical guidelines related to conservation practice.
Participate in educational programs, tours, and presentations related to collections stewardship.