Preventive Conservation Technician

Open To External And Internal Candidates•Williamsburg, VA

About The Position

The Preventive Conservation Technician carries out day-to-day efforts to protect and preserve Colonial Williamsburg’s cultural assets by implementing preventive conservation procedures. The role is responsible for collections care, cleanliness, and monitoring in assigned areas, following Conservation Department protocols and established standards. The position is non-exempt and eligible for overtime under the Fair Labor Standards Act; overtime may be required during peak periods when directed and approved by the supervisor. Duties may evolve based on operational needs.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least three years of experience handling, cleaning, and/or caring for museum collections.
Valid Commonwealth of Virginia driver’s license and an acceptable driving record under Colonial Williamsburg Foundation criteria.
Provide a five-year Motor Vehicle Record before employment.
At least 21 years of age.
No more than one moving violation or at-fault accident within 12 months, and no more than two within 36 months.
No serious motor vehicle violations, including excessive speeding, reckless driving, DUI/DWI, or a suspended or revoked license.
Ability to use hand tools and power equipment necessary for collections care in a museum setting.
Ability to communicate effectively, including offering and following instructions.
Ability to use a computer and learn essential software for email, report writing, data and image collection, scheduling, and other communication.
Ability to work independently and as a member and/or leader of a team.
Ability to use time and limited resources effectively and care appropriately for facilities, materials, equipment, and supplies.
Willingness and ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as assigned, for shifts of up to eight hours.
Ability to meet the listed physical and environmental demands, including frequent standing and walking, handling loads, and occasional exposure to specified work conditions.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience.
Valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record as measured against Colonial Williamsburg’s criteria.

Responsibilities

Perform routine cleaning of collections and surrounding areas according to Colonial Williamsburg Foundation conservation standards.
Maintain checklists and records of work performed at each site.
Inspect conditions of collections and buildings in assigned areas.
Monitor relative humidity, temperature, and light levels in storage and display areas.
Set up and maintain sensors and recording instruments, and compile permanent data records.
Document conditions according to Conservation Department protocols.
Carry out collections care and preventive conservation projects to established deadlines and quality standards.
Assist with ordering supplies and maintaining supply inventories.
Use tools, chemicals, and equipment according to safety, conservation, and manufacturer guidelines.
Maintain orderly shared work and storage areas, equipment backpacks, and carts.
Follow safety and security procedures, maintain familiarity with current SDS and other required records, and participate in required annual training.
Provide guidance to other team members as needed in the absence of the Supervisor, Preventive Conservation.
Assist with exhibition installation and preventive maintenance closings.
Attend training for collection handling and moving.
Assist with conservation treatment and documentation, object numbering, lab maintenance, and repair of reproductions.
Fabricate storage systems and exhibition supports, and pack or move objects as needed.
Ensure preventive conservation is addressed while monitoring contractors, special programs, events, receptions, filming, and other activities involving Colonial Williamsburg’s assets.
Maintain open, two-way communication between the Conservation Department and other departments whose activities may affect collections.
Participate in emergency preparation and recovery activities.
Maintain awareness of current techniques in preventive conservation.
Perform other duties as required.