Conservator of Paintings

The Frick Collection • New York, NY

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Frick Collection seeks a part-time Conservator of Paintings to join the Conservation Department. This is an inaugural position in the newly renovated museum. Candidates should have expertise in the conservation of European paintings from the 15th to early 20th century. Knowledge in the treatment of panel paintings is also desired. Experience in the installation of contemporary paintings for temporary exhibitions is helpful. The applicant must demonstrate a firm grasp of theoretical principles in traditional painting techniques and historical restoration practices.
The Conservator of Paintings will work under the supervision of the Chief Conservator in carrying out treatments, conducting technical studies, assisting with exhibition preparation and installation, preparing loan evaluations, making acquisition assessments, and conducting materials research. The candidate should be well versed in appropriate conservation documentation and preventative measures and adept at advising on framing, packing, and storage. As an important member of the team, the Conservator of Paintings will participate in engagement activities that raise the profile of the department for patrons and the general public and will carry out research for presentation and publication.
The Conservator of Paintings will work with all members of the Conservation Department and with colleagues across the museum and library, including curatorial, registration, education, facilities, media production, and database management. This position requires a collaborative colleague to assist in other wide-ranging responsibilities, among them, proficiency in the use of analytical techniques (including XRF, radiography, and microscopy), contributing to museum policies and procedures, and supporting the preservation of the historic Frick mansion.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Art Conservation with a focus in paintings conservation.
• Minimum of 7 years of post-graduate experience in paintings conservation.
• Excellent hand skills.
• Knowledge of collection databases, imaging techniques, and documentation methodologies.
• Strong art historical background in European painting from the 15th to 20th century.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to write technical reports and conservation documentation in English.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing priorities.
• Attention to detail with the ability to prioritize while handling multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to be proactive, use independent judgment, and take initiative.
• Ability to interact in-person with colleagues, vendors, and visitors.
• Ability to use common office tools and machines (computer, phone).
• Ability to transport and operate equipment.
• Ability to traverse and navigate throughout the offices, building(s) in- and out-doors, galleries, different levels of the building, and storage areas to complete tasks (includes climbing steps, ladders, and scaffolding; lifting objects and containers up to 40 lbs.).
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally.
• Adherence to appropriate safety protocols when working with hazardous materials.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge in the treatment of panel paintings
• Experience in the installation of contemporary paintings for temporary exhibitions

Responsibilities

• Carrying out treatments
• Conducting technical studies
• Assisting with exhibition preparation and installation
• Preparing loan evaluations
• Making acquisition assessments
• Conducting materials research
• Advising on framing, packing, and storage
• Participating in engagement activities
• Carrying out research for presentation and publication
• Proficiency in the use of analytical techniques (including XRF, radiography, and microscopy)
• Contributing to museum policies and procedures
• Supporting the preservation of the historic Frick mansion

Benefits

• Sick time accrual up to 56 hours/year
• Paid Holidays (New Year's Day, Juneteenth, Labor Day, Martin Luther King Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day)
• Participation in a Tax Deferred Savings Plan – 403(b)
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Discount on Citi Bike memberships
• Discount on bike helmets
• $8/day discount toward meal delivery from Seamless/GrubHub (per employee per shift)
• Discount on Museum Shop purchases
• Discount in onsite café and restaurant

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Mid Level