Conservation Technician
About The Position
The Conservation Technician supports the preservation and care of Shangri La’s historic art collection and exhibitions across museum interiors and outdoor spaces, alongside an active calendar of programs, convenings and events. The role helps ensure the long-term stability, safety and accessibility of the collection through hands-on conservation work, documentation and preventive care, supporting the thoughtful integration of cultural assets into Shangri La’s programming. Shangri La is a museum and cultural center on a 5-acre oceanside property in Honolulu, with a 14,000-square-foot house, outbuildings, gardens and water features. It is owned and operated by the Doris Duke Foundation, whose mission is to build a more creative, equitable and sustainable future. The Conservation Technician works collaboratively with colleagues, including the Conservator, Content & Engagement and Operations, to care for the collection and support exhibitions and on-site activities.
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 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 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 5-acre property with uneven terrain; navigate 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.
- Collaborative, solutions-oriented approach to protecting collections while supporting their role in programs, convenings and events.
- Sound judgment, high integrity and discretion at all times.
- In-person work is required.
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 a range of materials, in accordance with 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 and artist residencies, coordinating collection care and on-site programs.
- Monitor and document the condition of museum interiors and collections, with a focus on environmental controls and pest management programs.
- 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), maintaining complete, current and 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 in accordance with preservation policies and established practices.
- Support the safe handling, protection and relocation of objects.
- Perform other work and special projects as assigned.
Benefits
- 15% employer contribution to a 401(k).
- Comprehensive health insurance.
- Four weeks of paid vacation with additional paid time off.
- Matching gift benefits of up to $20,000 per year.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
