Head of Conservation

Cincinnati Art Museum • Cincinnati, OH

389d

About The Position

The Head of Conservation at the Cincinnati Art Museum is responsible for overseeing the conservation of the museum's art collection and managing the conservation department. This role involves direct involvement in the treatment and analysis of artworks, collaboration with curators and other departments, and representation of the museum in various public and professional forums. The Head Conservator ensures the highest standards of care and ethical practices in the conservation of art, while also fostering the development of future conservation professionals through mentorship and internship opportunities.

Requirements

• B.A. or B.S. in Chemistry, Art History, or a related field.
• Advanced degree(s) from an accredited conservation training graduate school program.
• 8-10 years of art object conservation experience.
• High familiarity with traditional and modern conservation methods.
• Strong skills in scientific analysis of artworks using microscopy, spectroscopy, and other diagnostic tools.
• Basic knowledge of all conservation specialties.
• Strong leadership, conceptual, written, and oral communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to supervise and work successfully with museum staff, volunteers, and diverse public constituencies.
• Proven ability to manage multiple tasks concurrently in a complex environment.

Nice To Haves

• 8-10 years of paintings conservation experience.
• Advanced degree(s) with paintings conservation specialization.
• Proficiency in paintings conservation techniques and materials, including cleaning, consolidation, inpainting, and varnishing.
• Previous experience in a museum setting.
• Previous staff supervision experience with a conservation team of three or more.

Responsibilities

• Monitor conservation treatments on objects in the Art Museum's collection done by staff conservators and contract conservators.
• Undertake conservation treatments and technical study of art objects and paintings in the Museum's collection.
• Plan and coordinate conservation approvals and treatment proposals in response to loan requests.
• Plan and coordinate scientific analysis of works of art in the collection and its documentation.
• Work closely with Facilities Management to ensure the museum's physical plant is managed for the safety and proper care of the collection.
• Monitor adherence to protocols for handling, movement, storage, and utilization of Conservation's materials and equipment.
• Uphold professional standards and guidelines of practice in conservation.
• Engage with the public, representing the conservation department in public forums and community outreach initiatives.
• Initiate and support fellowship and internship opportunities within the department.
• Perform other projects and duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Museums, Historical Sites, and Similar Institutions
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree