Temporary Conservator — Objects Specialist, Asian Art Museum

Temporary Conservator-Objects Specialist
The Asian Art Museum offers an exciting opportunity for an experienced professional objects conservator to conserve and restore Asian objects in this world-renowned collection. 
This full time, temporary position will provide assistance to the Acting Head of Conservation pending the recruitment and hiring of a new Head of Conservation for the department.  The duration of the position will be through January 18, 2015. 
Responsibilities
The Objects Conservator will perform professional conservation duties related to the examination, preservation, restoration, exhibition, and storage of three-dimensional works of art including sculpture, decorative arts, and arms and armor, as well as materials on loan.  The incumbent prepares a variety of reports to document conservation activities; performs research; keeps abreast of expertise in the conservation community; acts as resource person concerning area of specialty to the museum, collectors, and the public; develops innovative conservation methods as necessary; and performs other duties as required.
The nature of this highly skilled work requires advanced conservation ability and familiarity with radiography, UV, SWIR, and PLM imaging as well as image processing using specialized software.  Manual dexterity and intense concentration are required as well as excellent organizational and writing skills. The incumbent must have the ability to coordinate and consult with curators, preparators, and other museum professionals, prioritize work, and sequence projects in order to meet agreed-upon deadlines. Equally important is the ability to take direction, and work well as part of a team.
Minimum Qualifications

• Master of Arts or Master of Science degree in Art Conservation from a recognized college or university, OR:  Master of Arts degree in Art History with a Certificate in Conservation from a recognized conservation training program;  AND
• Three (3) years of verifiable conservation experience, beyond the degree or certificate, with the techniques, materials and equipment used in the conservation of Asian three-dimensional art and artifacts; or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience
• Knowledge of the technology and materials of three-dimensional art and artifacts, of their chemical and physical processes of deterioration, and of the procedures relating to their examination and preventative and corrective treatment
• Knowledge of the environmental requirements and of controls for handling, storage, and exhibition
• Ability to write technical reports in an understandable, clear and concise manner
• Ability to examine works of art and determine their current state of preservation for new acquisitions, loans, and exhibitions
• Ability to maintain ongoing effective working relationships with museum staff, professional colleagues and the public; demonstrate good judgment, flexibility, and resourcefulness
• Ability to lift up to fifty (50) pounds

Compensation: $2,518 biweekly
Note:  Due to the temporary nature of this position, it does not include a benefits package.
Application Procedure 
Apply online at http://bit.ly/1srwC2R
Or send a letter of interest and resume ASAPto:
HUMAN RESOURCES
Asian Art Museum
200 Larkin Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
FAX: 415.861.2359
The Asian Art Museum is one of the largest museums in the Western world devoted exclusively to Asian art and culture. Home to more than 18,000 works of art from over 40 Asian countries, we strive to be a catalyst for discovery, dialogue, and inspiration. With Asia as our lens and art as our cornerstone, we spark connections across cultures and through time, igniting curiosity, conversation, and creativity.
The Asian Art Museum embraces diversity in its mission, programs, and staff.