Conservation Technician

DORIS DUKE MANAGEMENT FOUNDATION•Honolulu, HI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Conservation Technician supports the preservation and care of Shangri La’s historic art collection and exhibitions in a setting that includes museum interiors, outdoor spaces, and an active calendar of programs, convenings, and events. The position helps ensure the long-term stability, safety, and accessibility of the collection through hands-on conservation work, documentation, and preventive care. The role requires practical problem-solving, close collaboration with colleagues, and an understanding of how collections care supports Shangri La’s broader role as a place for cultural engagement and exchange. Shangri La is a five-acre oceanside property in Honolulu, owned and operated by the Doris Duke Foundation. The compound includes a 14,000-square-foot house, outbuildings, gardens, and water features, and its collection includes approximately 4,500 objects from diverse Muslim cultures. The position is full-time, non-exempt, and requires in-person work.

Requirements

Hands-on experience with object cleaning and minor treatments under supervision.
Knowledge of preventive conservation practices, materials, and handling techniques for diverse object types.
Familiarity with environmental monitoring and pest management strategies in a museum or collection-care setting.
Proficiency in collections management software, preferably TMS, or the ability to learn it.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills, with meticulous attention to detail.
Strong oral and written communication skills and excellent interpersonal skills.
Experience physically handling historical materials and using digital photography.
Ability to perform hands-on collection-care duties indoors and outdoors, including in areas without climate control and in heat and humidity.
Ability to stand, walk, and sit for extended periods; traverse a five-acre property with uneven terrain; navigate flights of stairs; work in storage environments; and lift and carry up to 40 pounds.
Flexibility to work a varying schedule, including weekends, special events, and emergency situations.
Ability to support multiple projects simultaneously and adapt work plans to changing on-site needs while maintaining conservation and safety standards.
A collaborative, solutions-oriented approach to protecting collections while supporting their role in programs, convenings, and events.
Sound judgment, high integrity, and discretion.

Nice To Haves

A degree or certificate in conservation, museum studies, art history, or a related field.

Responsibilities

Carry out preventive conservation tasks, including cleaning, dusting, and vacuuming collection objects made from materials such as metal, wood, stone, plaster, ceramics, glass, paper, and textiles, following conservation protocols.
Follow established collections-handling procedures and share observations or concerns with supervisors.
Assist with conservation treatments of objects for display, loan, storage, and research.
Assist with photo and video shoot supervision, pre-construction preparation, and related tasks.
Collaborate with Content & Engagement and Operations colleagues on events, exhibitions, artist residencies, and other cross-functional activities.
Monitor and document the condition of museum interiors and collections, with a focus on environmental controls and pest management.
Maintain inventory, conservation equipment, and supplies to ensure availability, safe use, and functionality.
Document object conditions and treatment processes accurately in The Museum System (TMS) database and maintain complete, current, standardized records.
Support the Conservator in establishing and maintaining shared work plans for collaboration and planning.
Participate in team, department, and foundation-wide meetings, including monthly and weekly staff meetings.
Follow workplace health and safety standards and handle materials according to preservation policies and established practices.
Support safe handling, protection, and relocation of objects.
Perform other work, including special projects, as assigned.