Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, And Inclusion At WAM
At WAM we are committed to building a diverse environment, one where staff feel a sense of belonging, and are valued for their contributions and the perspectives they bring. Please visit our Mission, Vision, and Values page to learn more.
Job Overview
To perform examinations and conservation treatments of works on paper; document materials and methods of manufacture, condition, and conservation procedures performed on works in the collection; and collaborate on conservation research projects.
Duties/Responsibilities
Partner with the Conservator in Charge to develop strategic, multi-year goals and priorities for the conservation of the Museum’s collection of works of art on paper, including prints, drawings, photographs, and Asian paintings
Perform conservation treatments following professional ethical standards including the AIC Code of Ethics, working in consultation with curatorial staff
Document treatments and update existing condition reports
Perform technical studies, investigations, and examinations of works on paper to expand understanding of artists and cultures represented in the collection
Monitor the condition of works on paper from the collection and on loan; partner with curatorial staff to prioritize conservation treatment of works in the collection
Partner with Museum preparators, registrars, and members of Facilities and Protective Services to set and enact policies on aspects of transport, storage, installation, display, environmental monitoring, and collection emergencies
Perform courier duties for works on loan
Maintain paper conservation workspaces; order conservation supplies as needed; advise the Conservator in Charge on future departmental needs
Advise and coordinate workflows with curatorial staff and with the Preparator of Prints, Drawings, and Photographs
Assist with media identification in collaboration with curators
Supervise and support professional development of occasional postgraduate conservation fellows and graduate interns
Perform outreach activities, including presenting to the public on technical or conservation-related matters, answering paper conservation inquiries, contributing to Museum programming and social media channels
Engage with developments in the conservation field through professional conference and workshop attendance, keeping abreast of professional and popular conservation literature, and maintaining a strong network of colleagues
Perform other mission-driven related duties as assigned according to interests and abilities; examples include commitment to DEAI initiatives both internal and external, preparation of grant proposals, engagement with Museum donors and other key stakeholders, and collaboration with allied research institutions.
Requirements
Qualifications:
A thorough understanding of conservation procedures, materials and techniques for all works on paper
Demonstrated ability to perform documentation and conservation treatment of varying complexity
Self-awareness of personal skill; readiness to consult with a broad professional network
Demonstrated research skills and engagement with trends in the field
Superb attention to detail, strong organizational abilities, and effective communication skills
Ability to work efficiently both on site and occasionally from home
Ability to travel, representing the Museum on courier trips, at conferences, and operationally important meetings
Demonstrated curiosity and desire for professional growth
Education And Experience
Graduate of a formal advanced-level conservation training program or equivalent through apprenticeship; education should be strong in art history, studio art, chemistry, and graphic arts.
Five or greater years of significant post-graduate conservation experience, preferably in a museum conservation department, is required.
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Design, Art/Creative, and Information Technology
Industries
Museums, Historical Sites, and Zoos
Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Worcester Art Museum by 2x