Project Conservator

University of Chicago•Chicago, IL

7d•$61,500 - $66,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures (ISAC) is seeking a Project Conservator to play a central role in a grant-funded initiative focused on the conservation and preparation of the glazed brick façade from the Sin Temple at Khorsabad, Iraq. This significant architectural element from the palace of Sargon II requires conservation, documentation, technical study, and long-term preservation of 282 glazed bricks. The Project Conservator will collaborate with various departments, support ISAC's mission through scholarship and public engagement, and contribute to best practices in archaeological conservation. This is a one-year, grant-funded position with a possibility of extension.

Requirements

College or university degree in a related field.
2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
Thorough understanding of modern conservation theory, ethics, laboratory methods, and safe working practices.
Excellent organizational, communication, writing, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
Demonstrated meticulous attention to detail and fine hand skills.
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects independently while meeting deadlines.
Familiarity with museum collections databases.
Must be able to bend, kneel, lift, and work in confined spaces as required for conservation activities.

Nice To Haves

M.A. or M.S. in Conservation from a recognized university program.
Experience with archaeological objects.
Experience working in a museum or archaeological collection.
Approximately five years of professional experience as an objects conservator.
Experience with analytical techniques such as handheld X-ray fluorescence (XRF), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Raman spectroscopy.

Responsibilities

Performs conservation treatment and stabilization of the glazed brick façade from the Sin Temple.
Prepares and maintains comprehensive conservation documentation, including written treatment reports, condition reports, and photographic documentation.
Maintains the Conservation Laboratory, including the purchase of new equipment and supplies.
Operates microscopes and analytical instrumentation used in conservation research.
Performs necessary research activities to maintain the standards of the institution regarding conservation procedures.
Demonstrates knowledge of relevant literature and may attend conservation conferences, workshops, symposia, etc.
Ensures proper outreach of the conservation activities by providing public lectures and presentations for museum education, development, and membership support.
Ensures compliance with the ethical guidelines, standards, and professional practices of the American Institute for Conservation (AIC) and the International Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works (IIC).
Writes condition reports and performs other inspection documentation.
Ensures proper handling, maintenance, and return of pieces loaned to University museums.
Applies research and analysis pertaining to collections and external funding and participates in the selection of objects for exhibits.
Has a moderate understanding of the conservations budget and laboratory, including the purchase of equipment and supplies.
Analyzes priority for pieces in need of treatment and operates microscope and x-ray equipment used to analyze pieces.
Performs other related work as needed.