Assistant, Associate or Full Conservator - Objects

Saint Louis Art Museum•St. Louis, MO

144d•$60,561 - $110,377

About The Position

The Objects Conservator produces examinations, proposals, and related documentation for collection objects, potential acquisitions, and loans from other entities. The role examines, documents, and treats objects in the Museum’s permanent collection and on loan, designing treatments in consultation with curators and stakeholders. It provides recommendations for object care and risk reduction, advises Museum staff and contractors on preservation needs, and assesses objects for acquisition and loan suitability. The Conservator collaborates with curators, designers, mountmakers, preparators, and external clients on preservation and treatment strategies, as well as packing, handling, storage, installation, and environmental conditions. The position may act as a courier for works of art, particularly objects with condition or handling concerns, and assists with departmental planning, exhibition proposal review, policy development, and the supervision of technicians, interns, and volunteers. It also supports research, public outreach, programs, and fundraising initiatives.

Requirements

Master’s degree from an accredited conservation program or equivalent.
Full-time post-graduate conservation experience in the relevant field of specialty; the required amount depends on level: experience is required for Assistant Conservator, a minimum of 5 years for Associate Conservator, and 8 or more years for Conservator.
Familiarity with and adherence to the American Institute for Conservation’s (AIC) Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.
Experience with The Museum System (TMS) collections database or an equivalent content management system.
Facility in digital documentation and productivity software.

Nice To Haves

Experience working in a fine arts museum (listed as preferred for the Conservator level).

Responsibilities

Examine, document, and treat artworks in the Museum’s permanent collection and on loan under the supervision of senior staff.
Design and carry out conservation treatments in consultation with curators and stakeholders.
Provide written and photographic documentation of object condition, proposed treatments, and completed treatments in accordance with the AIC Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.
Carry out or facilitate study and analysis of collection works in support of curatorial, treatment, or research projects.
Produce presentations and/or publications to advance the field and highlight research initiatives.
Maintain professional networks and pursue continuing education to stay current with best practices and philosophies.
Identify, solicit, and contract specialized vendors to supplement the Museum’s in-house equipment or analytical capabilities.
Recommend outside conservators for consultation or contract work when projects require expertise beyond the position’s field.
Assist with supervision of technicians, interns, and volunteers.
Advise on preventive maintenance, including environmental conditions, pest management, display, handling, packing, storage, and installation.
Collaborate with the Curator, Designer, Mountmaker, and Preparators on measures for appropriate display and storage.
Examine artworks before acquisition to help curatorial staff assess physical and aesthetic condition and authenticity.
Examine works proposed for loan to assess travel suitability, document condition, and advise on special packing and shipping considerations.
Act as a courier for works of art, particularly objects with condition or handling concerns.
Monitor stock and order conservation supplies for the lab and specific projects.
Assist with public outreach, programs, and fundraising initiatives.
Assist with departmental planning, exhibition proposal review, and policy development and establishment.
Perform other duties according to priorities assigned by senior staff.