Description

The Gerald R. Ford Conservation Center is looking for a conscientious conservator to run its paintings conservation lab. As the leader of the painting’s conservation lab, the conservator will treat works from a broad range of public and private clients throughout the region. The conservator will examine paintings, prepare treatment proposals - including time and cost estimates - conserve artifacts and collections and maintain the Painting Conservation Laboratory at the Ford Center. The conservator will provide preservation expertise and outreach, participate in the Center’s educational activities, and collaborate with technicians, interns and volunteers on painting conservation projects.

Annual compensation range is commensurate with education and experience.

The Gerald R. Ford Conservation Center is a division of the Nebraska State Historical Society (NSHS). The NSHS is a statewide educational institution that connects people to the past through the conservation center, a library and research center, interpretive sites and museums, and the state archeology and historic preservation offices.

Job Duties: 

-          Examines, analyzes, researches, documents, and conserves paintings from art museums, galleries, libraries, historical societies, government agencies, and private and corporate clients throughout the region. 

-          Creates written and photographic documentation for conservation examinations, treatments and other activities; Maintains conservation documentation in accordance with the highest archival and digital preservation standards as outlined by the American Institute for Conservation. 

-          Develops public and private client base for contractual conservation projects; Establishes and maintains good client relationships. 

-          Builds regional understanding and awareness of conservation and preservation of cultural materials through networking and participation in educational outreach activities; Represents the NSHS and the Ford Center at regional and national professional meetings. 

-          Provides training and guidance on conservation-related matters to NSHS staff, interns, volunteers, other regional organizations, and individuals.; Mentors conservation technicians. 

-          Keeps current with developments in the field through reading, conferences, online discussions, and professional contacts; Researches new applications of materials, equipment, and techniques to carry out specialized tasks that contribute to improving the care of paintings. 

-          Other duties as assigned, including but not limited to: helping other departments, participating in interdepartmental committees and working groups, assisting colleagues with conservation treatments and collaborative projects, and participating in community outreach events.

Requirements

Requirements / Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications: Master’s degree/certificate from a recognized conservation training program, with a minimum of 5-8 years post-graduate practical experience at progressively advanced levels - as supported by a portfolio of work; OR an equivalent combination of qualifications and experience.

Other: This position requires travel. As such, the incumbent must be able to present a valid driver’s license or another form of reliable transportation. Regular and reliable attendance required.

 Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Must have acute hand-eye coordination necessary to perform delicate conservation activities and ability to lift and move 30 pounds.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and be able to provide independent authorized transportation.
• Knowledge of conservation treatment methods for a variety of paintings ranging from traditional to modern and contemporary.
• Familiarity with state-of-the-art preservation and conservation principles and methodology; materials science, chemistry, history of technology, art history, and fine art.
• Demonstrated use of logic and reasoning to determine appropriate courses of action, or alternative solutions for a variety of conservation problems.
• Experience with the development of accurate project proposals, cost estimates, and reports.
• Ability to interact professionally with a wide range of individuals including colleagues, allied professionals, and clients; Skilled at soliciting conservation work from outside sources.
• Capable of coordinating and managing competing projects to meet deadlines in a fast paced environment while adhering to the requirements of the American Institute for Conservation’s Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.