DHPSNY Preservation Specialist

Conservation Center for Art & Historic Artifacts•Philadelphia, PA

14h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Conservation Center for Art & Historic Artifacts (CCAHA) in Philadelphia is seeking a Preservation Specialist for the Documentary Heritage and Preservation Services for New York (DHPSNY) program. The DHPSNY Preservation Specialist conducts preservation surveys, oversees condition surveys, and assists with archival and preservation planning. They also develop and present educational programs, and provide technical assistance to libraries, archives, museums, historical societies, and other organizations across New York State. Candidates must reside in New York State or the greater Philadelphia area. This position requires frequent travel within/to New York State.

Requirements

Master’s degree in archives, preservation, or preventive conservation
A minimum of two years' experience working in a library, archive, museum, or historic site.
Training in and a thorough understanding of preservation principles, practice, and issues.
Experience in conducting and writing preservation assessments and other planning documents for cultural institutions.
Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
Talent in teaching and public speaking.
Ability to work independently.

Responsibilities

Conducts on-site preservation surveys with written reports for eligible cultural and historical organizations throughout New York State, including assistance with follow-up question and training.
In collaboration with CCAHA conservators, manages the condition survey process with accepted organizations and contributes to final reports.
Coordinates with the DHPSNY Program Manager and DHPSNY Preservation Education Specialist to facilitate assessment services and training opportunities for all accepted organizations.
Develops, presents, and organizes educational programs, workshops, and online courses including curriculum and content development, recruitment and collaboration with external speakers as appropriate.
Presents lectures and prepares both in-person and webinar programs for professional and lay audiences to promote awareness of preservation and conservation concerns and practices.
Provides technical information via telephone, Zoom conference, e-mail, and in print on preservation topics.
Maintains familiarity with preservation and archival literature and best practices.
Assists in updating and expanding the range of technical literature and resources available through CCAHA.
Writes/updates resources and contributes to the field of preservation scholarship.
Supports communication and marketing needs, including content generation and editing.
Attends NYS conferences, contributing workshop and presentation proposals as appropriate.
Contributes to NYS and national professional organizations related to the archival and preservation fields.