Objects Conservator

COMMITMENT TO RACIAL EQUITY

The Missouri Historical Society commits to a process of listening attentively to one another and leveraging best practices and resources across our organization to promote a culture of inclusion where individuals from all racial and ethnic identities; ages; nationalities; social and economic statuses; sexual orientations; gender identities/expressions; religious, political, and ideological perspectives; and abilities are able to be engaged, feel valued, and thrive. click here for the full Commitment to Racial Equity

Position Summary:

The Objects Conservator is responsible for assessing objects in the Missouri Historical Society and Soldiers Memorial and Military Museum collections and performing treatment on objects, as necessary. The incumbent coordinates overall conservation activities and, with the Director of Library & Collections, Collections Manager, Objects Preservation Administrator, and Director of Curatorial Affairs, by establishing priorities for assessment, treatment, and preservation. The Objects Conservator serves on collections related MHS and SMM committees and takes the lead in developing preservation plans such the Long-Range Conservation Plan. The Objects Conservator will receive a paid membership to the American Institute for Conservation (AIC).

Essential Functions:

• Supervises and operates the conservation lab including supervising conservation support staff and coordinating work by outside contract conservators, including writing contracts for these jobs
• Regularly undertake survey and assessment work to ensure that artifacts are prepared for an active exhibition program at MHS and SMM
• Collaborates with exhibit designers and curators to set lighting, and humidity requirements and time limits for exhibiting specific artifacts
• Reviews loan requests from other institutions by studying Facility Reports, setting conditions for MHS and SMM artifact display and providing general recommendations to curators, registrars, and the division Director
• Maintains appropriate professional memberships, remain professionally active and current in the field

Qualifications:

• MA or MS and certificate or equivalent in general conservation from recognized conservation program
• 3-5 years work experience in conservation, varied experience preferred, including one year as intern
• Experience and knowledge of the greater portion of these areas is most desirable

Skills:

• Knowledge of museum professional standards for handling, preserving, treating, housing, and exhibiting a variety of objects
• Understanding of the code of ethics and standards of practice as specified by the American Institute for Conservation
• Understanding of preservation strategies for acquisitions, loans, transport, and storage of collections
• Ability to work safely with and manage the use of hazardous materials and chemicals; knowledge of material safety and chemical hygiene
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Manual dexterity to handle fragile objects and conduct treatment of objects; Ability to negotiate stairs or operate freight elevator and to lift up to twenty pounds

Deadline to Apply: Open until filled.

Please upload cover letter and resume when applying.

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An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

Services Provided On A Non-Discriminatory Basis