Project Conservator of American Furniture and Woodwork
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is offering a 3 year position in conservation of American furniture and woodwork dating from 1650-1840, beginning early January 2015. A 2-3 years extension is possible after the initial 3 years. The Project Conservator will work under the supervision of the Senior Conservator of Furniture and Woodwork to examine, research, analyze, and treat a selection of the Museum’s collection of American furniture dating from 1650 to 1840 towards the publication of a catalogue in both printed and online formats.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
- Work closely with associate curator of American Decorative Arts in devising priorities, research, treatments, and scheduling
- Examine, research, analyze, and treat early American furniture, which includes frames and architectural woodwork, that will be photographed for collections catalogue
- Travel to study objects related to the Museum’s collection
- Participate as an engaged and active member of the Furniture and Woodwork Conservation Team and in related activities that support the overall mission of the Conservation Department including supervision of Mellon Fellow, art handlers, conservation technicians, and textile reproduction specialist
Training and experience required:
- Advanced training in conservation or equivalent qualifications, followed by a minimum of 6 years of experience in the field, ideally in a museum setting
- Hand skills relating to traditional furniture making, carving, and woodworking. Additional skills in microscopy, surface treatment, and upholstery desirable
- Experience in and knowledge of the nuances of American furniture and its European precedents with a particular specialty in Philadelphia furniture
- Experience at establishing priorities and developing a work plan
- Experience at successfully completing projects within deadlines
To apply, create a single document that contains a cover letter stating interests and qualifications and a resume to upload with your application at http://www.philamuseum.org/jobs/.
In addition to the application materials above, two supporting letters from conservation professionals familiar with your work should be sent directly by email or mail to the attention of Behrooz Salimnejad, The Elaine S. Harrington Senior Conservator of Furniture and Woodwork, at bsalimnejad@philamuseum.org or P.O. Box 7646, Philadelphia, PA 19101-7646. Questions can be addressed to Behrooz by email to or by telephone at 215-684-7557.
Application deadline: December 31, 2014