Tag: Job

ECPN Interviews: Electronic Media Conservation with Alexandra Nichols

To promote awareness and a clearer understanding of different pathways into specializations that require particular training, the Emerging Conservation Professionals Network (ECPN) is conducting a series of interviews with conservation professionals in these specialties. We kicked off the series with Chinese and Japanese painting conservation, and now we are focusing on practitioners in AIC’s Electronic Media Group (EMG). These conservators work with time-based media, which can include moving components, performance, light or sound elements, film and video, analog or born-digital materials. We’ve asked our interviewees to share some thoughts about their career paths, which we hope will inspire new conservation professionals and provide valuable insight into these areas of our professional field.

In our first EMG interview, we spoke with Nick Kaplan. Now for our second interview from the EMG series, we turn to with Alexandra Nichols, currently a Sherman Fairchild Foundation Fellow in the conservation of time-based media and installation art at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. From 2016-2017, she was a Samuel H. Kress Foundation Fellow in Time-based Media Conservation at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum. She earned her Master’s of Art Conservation from the Winterthur/University of Delaware Program in Art Conservation (2016) where she concentrated on the conservation of modern and contemporary objects.

ECPN: Please tell us a little bit about yourself.

Alexandra Nichols (AN): I received my Master’s of Conservation from Winterthur/University of Delaware Program in Art Conservation in 2016, where I concentrated on the conservation of modern and contemporary objects. I recently completed a one-year fellowship as a Samuel H. Kress Foundation Fellow in Time-based Media Conservation at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, where I was working under Joanna Phillips, the Guggenheim’s Senior Conservator of Time-based Media. Just a few weeks ago, I joined the Metropolitan Museum of Art as a Sherman Fairchild Foundation Conservation Fellow, where I’ll be working with the Met’s collection of time-based media and installation art.  

ECPN: How were you first introduced to conservation, and why did you decide to pursue conservation?

AN: After obtaining my undergraduate degree in art history, I moved to London and landed a job as an executive assistant at the British Museum. While there, I visited the Hirayama Studio, the British Museum’s conservation lab dedicated to the care and treatment of East Asian paintings and works on paper. It’s a beautiful, peaceful room, with tatami mats and walls lined with brushes and different types of paper. I loved how the conservators could develop such a close, tactile relationship with the artworks, and how the treatments were carried out with respect for the cultures that created the works. This led me to seek out internships where I could gain experience in conservation.

ECPN: Of all specializations, what contributed to your decision to pursue electronic or time-based media conservation?

AN: I’m really fascinated by the wide range of materials and methods utilized by contemporary artists. Something I love about time-based media art is its complexity and variability. An artwork may have multiple channels of video, require a very specific placement in the gallery, or be shown differently based on the size or shape of the room.

My training is in objects conservation, focusing on the conservation of contemporary art. During the course of my graduate studies, none of the North American programs offered coursework in time-based media*. Thus, I was able to explore working with time-based media during my graduate internships at the Hirshhorn and the Museum of Modern Art. I’ve been pleasantly surprised that many of the time-based media pieces I’ve worked on incorporate sculptural elements, so my graduate training has been helpful in ways I didn’t expect. Learning how these objects should be placed in an installation and their relationship to electronic and audiovisual elements is really intriguing.

*The Institute of Fine Arts (IFA) at New York University is implementing a curriculum geared towards the conservation of time-based media, and is accepting applications this this year for Fall 2018 matriculation.  http://www.nyu.edu/gsas/dept/fineart/conservation/time-based-media.htm

Alexandra and Contract Video Engineer Maurice Schechter conduct a quality check (QC) on a video file. [Photo: Joanna Phillips]
Alexandra and Contract Video Engineer Maurice Schechter conduct a quality check (QC) on a video file. [Photo: Joanna Phillips]
ECPN: What has been your training pathway?  Please list any universities, apprenticeships, technical experience, and any related jobs or hobbies.

AN: I’ve always had an interest in computers and electronics. In middle school and high school, I learned the programming language C, built computers as a hobby, and took courses in video editing and digital photography as part of my undergraduate degree.

I’m originally from the Washington, DC area, and after deciding to pursue conservation, I completed pre-program internships and contracts at various museums in the Smithsonian system, including the Freer and Sackler Galleries, the Museum Conservation Institute, and the National Museum of African-American History and Culture.

In 2013, I began my graduate studies at the Winterthur/University of Delaware Program in Art Conservation, where I specialized in the conservation of modern and contemporary objects. As a graduate student, I completed a summer internship at the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, preparing time-based media works in their collection for the 2014 exhibition Days of Endless Time. During my third-year internship at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, I collaborated with Kate Lewis and Amy Brost to treat a pearlescent bead-adorned cathode ray tube television set by Nam June Paik and Otto Piene.

Additionally, the chance to work with Joanna Phillips at the Guggenheim has been thrilling—there aren’t many opportunities to learn about time-based media conservation in the American graduate conservation programs, so emerging conservators must gain expertise through internships and fellowships. However, this is changing soon — The Institute of Fine Arts (IFA) at New York University is implementing a curriculum geared towards the conservation of time-based media, and is accepting applications this year for Fall 2018 matriculation (link: https://www.nyu.edu/gsas/dept/fineart/conservation/time-based-media.htm). I’ll be utilizing the skills I’ve developed over the past year at my current fellowship working with the time-based media art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

ECPN: Are there any particular skills that you feel are important or unique to your discipline?

AN: Strong documentation skills are important in any specialization, but this is especially true for time-based media. The inherent variability of time-based media requires extensive research and documentation to ensure that it can be installed correctly in the future. It’s also important to know about the history of video production, including film history and the development of various formats. Foundational knowledge of video and other technologies is also crucial and has to be updated continuously, since technology is always evolving. Without this knowledge, media conservators cannot seek out and engage external specialists and vendors who can provide specific technical expertise

ECPN: What are some of your current projects, research, or interests?

AN: I am just getting started at The Met, but I am currently working with Nora Kennedy and Meredith Reiss to help document the 250 time-based media artworks in The Met’s collection. This includes updating questionnaires that are sent to artists during the acquisition process, which help us learn more about the production history and intended exhibition of the artwork, and researching past exhibitions to create retroactive iteration reports. The Met has had a Time-based Media Working Group for many years now, and I am looking forward to collaborating with its members as I conduct my research.

Image of a Skype interview with an artist, in which Alexandra and Contract Video Engineer Maurice Schechter discuss the audio channels of an artist-provided video file. [Photo: Alexandra Nichols]
Image of a Skype interview with an artist, in which Alexandra and Contract Video Engineer Maurice Schechter discuss the audio channels of an artist-provided video file. [Photo: Alexandra Nichols]
ECPN: In your opinion, what is an important research area or need in your specialization?

AN: I think the acquisition and display of virtual reality (VR) will pose a number of challenges for conservators in the coming years. Artists are increasingly experimenting with these types of works—Jordan Wolfson exhibited a VR work in the Whitney Biennial this year, for example—but as far as I know, no museums have acquired a VR piece yet. This technology is so new and is still being developed, and as a result, there’s so much potential for the obsolescence of file formats and hardware.

ECPN: Do you have any advice for prospective emerging conservators who would like to pursue this specialization?

AN: Try playing around with how to shoot and edit your own video in Final Cut Pro or Premiere! It will teach you about digital video formats and give you some insight into the artist’s process. And, don’t be afraid to reach out to conservators you admire to learn more about what they do!

ECPN: Please share any last thoughts or reflections.

AN: Supervised training under established media conservators is essential to the development of one’s skills as an emerging time-based media conservator. Fellowships and internships provide practical experience with real-life museum scenarios that is not possible to gain through readings or coursework. I am extremely grateful to the Samuel H. Kress Foundation and the Sherman Fairchild Foundation for providing me with opportunities to hone my expertise at the Guggenheim and The Met.

 

*Featured photograph: Alexandra examines a MiniDV tape containing an artwork while working at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum. [Photo: Kris Mckay]

 

Visiting Exhibits Conservator (Champaign, IL)

*** APPLICATION DEADLINE HAS PAST – PLEASE DO NOT APPLY FOR THIS POSITION ***

Preservation Services Unit – University of Illinois Library at Urbana-Champaign

Position Available: This position is available as soon as possible.  This is a 100%, twelve-month, visiting Academic Professional appointment for a term of two years.  This position may become permanent at a later date.

Duties and Responsibilities: The University of Illinois is seeking a dynamic candidate to work closely with the Head of Preservation Services, the Special Collections Senior Conservator, and the Rare Book Conservator to develop relationships, treatments, policies, and procedures in support of special collections exhibits in the Library.  This position will expose an early career conservator to the full process of special collections exhibit planning and preparations.  The candidate will have a passion for the holistic process of exhibiting special collections materials in a library and archives setting. The candidate will interact and communicate with both curators and conservators on the process of exhibit planning and execution from conception to deinstallation. Candidates must have the ability to lead deadline-driven conservation treatments as well as build collaborative relationships between Preservation Services and curators of special collections libraries including the Rare Book & Manuscript Library and the Illinois History & Lincoln Collections unit.

Qualifications: Required: A Master’s Degree in conservation from a recognized conservation training program or a Bachelor’s Degree and significant previous experience in special collections conservation treatments; Interest in outreach and exhibits for special collections in libraries and archives; Excellent written and oral communication skills; Demonstrated knowledge of the material and technical characteristics of formats found in library and archival collections.  See https://jobs.illinois.edu for Preferred.

To Apply: To ensure full consideration, please complete your candidate profile at https://jobs.illinois.edu and upload a letter of interest, resume, and contact information including email addresses for three professional references.  Additionally, upload documentation (file formats accepted include image, PDF, or word-processing files) of your three most significant treatments, or provide an external link to these in the cover letter.  Applications not submitted through this website will not be considered. For questions, please call: +1 (217) 333-8169.

Deadline:  In order to ensure full consideration, applications and nominations must be received by October 24, 2017.

The University of Illinois conducts criminal background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer.

The U of I is an EEO Employer/Vet/Disabled www.inclusiveillinois.illnois.edu.

Digital Archivist (Evanston, IL, USA)

*** PLEASE DO NOT APPLY FOR THIS POSITION – THEY ARE NO LONGER ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS ***

  • Applications received by September 22, 2017 will receive first consideration
  • Reports to: Head of Archival Processing

Northwestern University Libraries seek a Digital Archivist to coordinate the accessioning, arrangement, and description of born-digital archival collection materials, including websites, in the Archival Processing unit, part of the Libraries’ Distinctive Collections workgroup. Along with Archival Processing, Distinctive Collections encompasses the Northwestern University Archives, Charles Deering McCormick Library of Special Collections, Melville J. Herskovits Library of African Studies, Art Library, Music Library, and Transportation Library. Core responsibilities include collaborating with Distinctive Collections staff to acquire, appraise, describe, preserve, and provide access to born-digital records and resources. The Digital Archivist also works with the Head of Archival Processing and other colleagues to plan and execute workflows for the incorporation of born-digital and hybrid collections into the Libraries’ archival collection management system. He/she will also supervise the activities of interns and work study students. This position collaborates with the Head of Archival Processing in the planning and implementation of unit priorities.

Key responsibilities

  • Establish policies, plan workflows, and set priorities for processing born-digital archival collection materials, working collaboratively and responsively with Distinctive Collections staff, Repository and Digital Curation staff, and other key partners from across the Libraries.
  • Manage ingest of selected campus websites and other web content and born-digital materials transferred or donated by members of the university community or selected by curators and librarians.
  • Evaluate and implement specialized tools that characterize, describe, and/or transform born-digital content as needed.
  • Coordinate the transfer of digital materials from a variety of current and legacy media formats such as tapes, floppy disks, CDs, and hard drives, and implement mechanisms for ensuring the authenticity, preservation, and access of this material.
  • Develop processes for the routine acquisition, preservation, and access of born-digital materials given to Distinctive Collections units, including email, websites, social media, and other electronic records.
  • Arrange and describe archival and manuscript collections in both paper and digital format. Collections could be a combination of paper records, born-digital materials, audiovisual items, and objects.
  • Assist donors with the transfer of born-digital collections.
  • Collaborate with campus units working on related problems in digital records retention, and research data archiving.
  • Maintain and promote awareness and understanding of developments and trends in the field of digital preservation.
  • Supervise and train student assistants through effective communication and a fostering of shared goals that yields knowledge, productivity, and dependability.
  • Manage and promote the Libraries’ efforts to identify and preserve key university web content.
  • Serve as a member of relevant committees.
  • Represent the Libraries and the University through conference participation and other activities relevant to the profession and Northwestern.

Minimum qualifications

  • Graduate degree in librarianship or related field.
  • Extensive knowledge of current trends in digital preservation theory and standards and technologies that enable effective preservation of permanent digital records.
  • Knowledge of various methods of digital preservation, including the use of file packing formats and comprehensive software programs, as well as the OAIS reference model.
  • Ability to plan, coordinate, and implement effective programs, and complex projects and services.
  • Experience generating checksums, preservation metadata, and working with tools that verify file authenticity and tools that identify potentially restricted content.
  • Experience working with legacy media.
  • Knowledge of metadata schemas such as Dublin Core, METS, MODS, PREMIS, VRA core, and TEI
  • Record of professional engagement and contribution, such as research, publication, and involvement in pertinent professional and scholarly organizations.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Experience working with donors.

Minimum competencies

  • Ability to work in collaborative team-based environment
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Adaptable, ability to adjust to changing environment
  • Customer-focused

Preferred qualifications

  • Five years of progressively responsible experience in the field of digital archives and digital preservation.
  • Coursework in archives, digital curation, or digital preservation.
  • Experience with one or more of the following technologies: ArchivesSpace, Aeon, BitCurator, BagIt, Preservica.
  • Knowledge of electronic records management techniques and best practices.
  • Knowledge of current best practices related to copyright and access issues for born-digital collections.
  • Experience using web archiving applications.
  • Working knowledge of email archiving applications and workflows.
  • Working knowledge of historical research methodology, and strong grounding in social sciences or humanities.
  • Strong understanding of digital forensics tools and workflows; experience maintaining hardware and specialized equipment for access to legacy media (Kryoflux)

Northwestern University is a highly selective private university with campuses in Evanston and Chicago, Illinois and in Doha, Qatar. One of the leading private research libraries in the United States, Northwestern University Library serves the educational and information needs of the NU community as well as scholars around the world. Its collection contains more than 5 million volumes, a full array of digital resources, and collections of distinction in Africana, transportation, and 20th-century and contemporary music. Northwestern is a member of the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) and the Big Ten Academic Alliance (BTAA). See more information about University Libraries at: www.library.northwestern.edu.

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the United States.

To Apply: Applications received by September 22, 2017 will receive first consideration. You can apply for the position here: https://facultyrecruiting.northwestern.edu/apply/MTg.

 

Art Handler (Columbia, SC, USA)

*** POSITION HAS BEEN FILLED – PLEASE DO NOT APPLY FOR THIS POSITION ***

Carolina Conservation is seeking a dedicated and career-oriented professional who is passionate about helping others as a full-time Art Handler. We provide on-site disaster response for fine art collections that have suffered severe damage as the result of a fire, food, or catastrophic disaster. As a key client facing position, the role of the Art Handler is an extremely important and integral part of the services that we offer.

Our Art Handlers do more than just handle artwork. They are Client Specialists responsible for meeting on-site with clients, contractors, and insurance adjusters for the purpose of conducting initial evaluations of damaged collections. While on-site, the Art Handler is responsible for documentation, inventory, packaging, and removal of collection items for transport and/or shipping to our facility. Items may include, but are not limited to: fine art, paintings, art on paper, prints, art objects, collectables, antiques, heirlooms, and other high value contents. Packing strategies range from the use of basic packaging materials to custom configured travel frames, crates, and other advanced methods of housing and transport.

Our primary service area is located within the Southeast, but we regularly respond to collections nationwide. This job requires occasional overnight and long-distance travel. This position requires physical work. De-installation, packaging, transportation and installation require that candidates be able to lift 50 lbs. The Art Handler will work regularly scheduled hours, but some projects require long days that frequently start with early mornings and may span several days.  More often than not, job sites are without power and climate control, and require the use of personal protective equipment, including a respirator. Unlike a traditional gallery or institutional role, this is not a position for those afraid to get their hands dirty.

 Client Relationships & On-Site Responsibilities

  • Jobsite communication with current & prospective clients
  • Jobsite communication with contractors & insurance adjusters
  • Basic on-site evaluation, documentation, & inventory of specialty contents
  • Discussion, consultation, & explanation of company processes, policies, & common treatments with clients, contractors, & adjusters
  • On-site packaging of art & specialty contents for transport
  • Transportation of client collections to and from studio location

Studio Responsibilities

  • Planning & preparation for scheduled jobs and on-site work
  • Accurate completion of job & client related paperwork/documentation
  • Accurate & complete documentation of collection inventories
  • Preparation of collections for loading, unloading, storage, & delivery
  • Maintenance and upkeep of job related supplies, materials, & fleet vehicles

Essential Skills & Personality Traits
We have identified a number of skills and abilities that are critical to success in this position. The following are non-negotiable qualities we are looking for in a candidate:

  • An energetic, positive & optimistic attitude
  • Strong personal and professional ethics and conduct
  • Strong verbal communication skills
  • Ability to build rapport & develop strong interpersonal relationships
  • Professionalism, assertiveness & confidence
  • Meticulous, precise, & detail oriented
  • A team player that enjoys working with others
  • An enthusiastic commitment to excellence
  • Pro-active, responsible, motivated self-manager
  • Enjoys working with their hands
  • Processes new information quickly with a passion for learning
  • A passion for using their knowledge & skills to help others

Preferred Knowledge & Skills

  • Studio and/or Gallery Experience
  • Understanding of media types and studio process
  • Art History and/or working knowledge of the fine art world
  • Basic knowledge of power/hand tools
  • Ability to construct and build things from a plan
  • Digital photography & Mac based computer skills

Education & Experience

  • BA or BS (A major in Studio Art, Art History, or related study is preferred)
  • Sales, Marketing, Business Development or related experience is preferred
  • Art handling, installation, packing, and shipping experience is preferred

Compensation & Benefits

  • Full-Time
  • Salary: Hourly + Overtime
  • 60% of Comprehensive Health, Dental, & Vision insurance premiums paid by Carolina Conservation
  • Two weeks paid vacation + select holidays
  • Continuing Education & volunteer opportunities

About Carolina Conservation
Family owned and operated, Carolina Conservation has specialized in fine art conservation for fire and water damaged collections since 2005. We service major national accounts and companies within the property insurance industry. Due to the high level of service quality we provide to our clients, we have built strong industry relationships that have fueled the rapid growth of our studio operations. Over the past twelve years, we have grown to become the largest conservation studio in the nation exclusively specializing in fire and water damaged fine art and specialty collections. Salary will be competitive and commensurate with education and work history. Carolina Conservation employees are given the potential for strong career growth within our organization. We believe in providing our staff access to ongoing education, training, fieldwork experience, and volunteer conservation opportunities.

Conservation Technician, Paintings Focus (Columbia, SC, USA)

*** POSITION HAS BEEN FILLED – PLEASE DO NOT APPLY FOR THIS POSITION ***

Carolina Conservation is seeking a dedicated and career-oriented Conservation Technician for its private practice. Ideal candidates are enthusiastic team players with strong critical thinking and applied problem solving skills. Time management and the ability to meet deadlines while working under pressure will be necessary. Carolina Conservation provides on-site disaster response for fine art collections that have suffered severe damage as the result of a fire, flood, or catastrophic disaster. Applicants please send a cover letter, resume, professional references, and salary requirements to info@carolinaconservation.com.

The Conservation Technician, Easel Paintings’ role is to provide valuable assistance to conservation staff by performing conservation treatments for easel paintings under the direction of the Lead Conservator. This assistance includes, but is not limited to evaluations, condition reports, conservation treatments, collection triage, packaging works for transport, and general conservation studio and supply maintenance. Due to the differing nature of each collection, insofar as condition and media types, the daily work scope and duties may be wide-ranging and will require flexibility with regards to job priorities.

The potential career track for a Conservation Technician within the organization includes the opportunity for conservation bench training, apprenticeship, and continuing education.

The Conservation Technician is expended to demonstrate proficiency and skill when handling collection items. This includes the ability to physically handle and move objects, as well as the execution of assigned tasks and treatments regarding the collection within reasonable timeframes.

General Responsibilities of the Conservation Technician will include the following:

  • Assist Lead Conservator in treatment of various easel paintings & painted works
  • Perform conservation treatments to easel paintings & other works as directed by Lead Conservator, including, but not limited to: surface cleanings, varnish removals, varnish applications, consolidation, tear repairs, reversible fills, retouching, linings, and related tasks
  • Assist with the examination and completion of condition reports for incoming collections
  • Basic research, data collection, and documentation
  • Contribute to studio maintenance, material and supply inventory management

Applicants are expected to meet the following education and work experience criteria:

  • BA or BS in related field (Art History, Fine Art, Chemistry, etc.)
  • Optional postgraduate degree in Conservation of Fine Art, specializing in the conservation of paintings, or equivalent training and work experience
  • Private practice experience is a plus, but will consider entry-level conservation professionals
  • Ability to work independently and contribute as an effective member of a team
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Digital photography proficiency
  • Computer proficiency

 Essential Skills & Personality Traits
We have identified a number of skills and abilities that are critical to success in this position. The following are non-negotiable qualities we are looking for in a candidate:

  • An energetic, positive & optimistic attitude
  • Strong personal and professional ethics and conduct
  • Strong verbal communication skills
  • Ability to build rapport & develop strong interpersonal relationships
  • Professionalism, assertiveness & confidence
  • Meticulous, precise, & detail oriented
  • A team player that enjoys working with others
  • An enthusiastic commitment to excellence
  • Pro-active, responsible, motivated self-manager
  • Enjoys working with their hands
  • Processes new information quickly with a passion for learning
  • A passion for using their knowledge & skills to help others

Benefits Include:

  • 60% of Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision insurance premiums paid by Carolina Conservation
  • Two weeks paid vacation (accrual based) + holidays (back dated to start date)
  • Volunteer opportunities
  • Continuing Education Opportunities

About Carolina Conservation
Family owned and operated, Carolina Conservation has specialized in fine art conservation for fire and water damaged collections since 2005. We service major national accounts and companies within the property insurance industry. Due to the high level of service quality we provide to our clients, we have built strong industry relationships that have fueled the rapid growth of our studio operations. Over the past twelve years, we have grown to become the largest conservation studio in the nation exclusively specializing in fire and water damaged fine art and specialty collections. Salary will be competitive and commensurate with education and work history. Carolina Conservation employees are given the potential for strong career growth within our organization. We believe in providing our staff access to ongoing education, training, fieldwork experience, and volunteer conservation opportunities.

Assistant Paintings Conservator (Columbia, SC, USA)

This job announcement has been re-advertised on February 2, 2018. To see it, go to: www.conservators-converse.org/2018/02/assistant-paintings-conservator-columbia-sc-usa/.

Carolina Conservation is seeking a dedicated and career-oriented Assistant Paintings Conservator for its private practice. Ideal candidates are enthusiastic team players with strong critical thinking and applied problem solving skills. Time management and the ability to meet deadlines while working under pressure will be necessary. Carolina Conservation provides on-site disaster response for fine art collections that have suffered severe damage as the result of a fire, flood, or catastrophic disaster. Applicants please send a cover letter, resume, professional references, and salary requirements to info@carolinaconservation.com.

General responsibilities of the Assistant Paintings Conservator will include the following:

  • Assessment and evaluation of incoming collections
  • Preparation of condition reports, treatment proposals, treatment records, and additional documentation as necessary
  • Execution of treatments under the direction and supervision of the Lead Conservator
  • Perform conservation treatments to easel paintings & other works as directed by Lead Conservator, including, but not limited to: surface cleanings, varnish removals, varnish applications, consolidation, tear repairs, reversible fills, retouching, linings, and related tasks
  • Triage and on-site collection recovery
  • Client consultations and collection reviews
  • Additional responsibilities as directed and supervised by the Lead Conservator

Applicants are expected to meet the following education and work experience criteria:

  • BA or BS in related field (Art History, Fine Art, Chemistry, etc.)
  • Postgraduate degree in Conservation of Fine Art, specializing in the conservation of paintings, or equivalent training and work experience
  • Private practice experience is a plus, but will consider entry-level conservation professionals
  • Ability to work independently and contribute as an effective member of a team
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Digital photography proficiency
  • Computer proficiency

Essential Skills & Personality Traits
We have identified a number of skills and abilities that are critical to success in this position. The following are non-negotiable qualities we are looking for in a candidate:

  • An energetic, positive & optimistic attitude
  • Strong personal and professional ethics and conduct
  • Strong verbal communication skills
  • Ability to build rapport & develop strong interpersonal relationships
  • Professionalism, assertiveness & confidence
  • Meticulous, precise, & detail oriented
  • A team player that enjoys working with others
  • An enthusiastic commitment to excellence
  • Pro-active, responsible, motivated self-manager
  • Enjoys working with their hands
  • Processes new information quickly with a passion for learning
  • A passion for using their knowledge & skills to help others

Benefits include:

  • Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision insurance. Carolina Conservation pays 60% of all employees insurance premiums
  • Two weeks paid vacation + holidays
  • Volunteer and Angel Project opportunities
  • Continuing Education opportunities

About Carolina Conservation
Family owned and operated, Carolina Conservation has specialized in fine art conservation for fire and water damaged collections since 2005. We service major national accounts and companies within the property insurance industry. Due to the high level of service quality we provide to our clients, we have built strong industry relationships that have fueled the rapid growth of our studio operations. Over the past twelve years, we have grown to become the largest conservation studio in the nation exclusively specializing in fire and water damaged fine art and specialty collections. Salary will be competitive and commensurate with education and work history. Carolina Conservation employees are given the potential for strong career growth within our organization. We believe in providing our staff access to ongoing education, training, fieldwork experience, and volunteer conservation opportunities.

Conservator (Princeton, NJ, USA)

*** PLEASE DO NOT APPLY FOR THIS POSITION AS IT HAS BEEN FILLED ***

The Princeton University Art Museum, one of the nation’s preeminent cultural institutions in an academic setting, seeks applications for the position of Conservator. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work within the setting of an art museum that is intimate in scale yet expansive in scope, overseeing the care and preservation of a highly-regarded, globe-spanning collection representing 5,000 years of world history.

Under the supervision of the Associate Director for Collections and Exhibitions, the Conservator oversees the Museum’s conservation laboratory and has responsibility for the physical care of the Museum’s extensive collections. The Conservator supervises, schedules, and/or performs conservation and preservation of the Museum’s collections, including examination, documentation, analysis, research, preventative maintenance, and treatment. The Conservator also manages all contract conservators, student interns, and volunteers who participate in conservation activities, and coordinates with the Director, curators, registrars, and other staff members to establish procedures and priorities for safe handling, storage, exhibition, and loan of the collections. Moreover, the Conservator collaborates with Museum educators to inform the campus and community about conservation and preservation initiatives. The position requires the ability to develop and oversee faculty and student collaborations and innovative art-science partnerships, and may require the ability to plan and oversee a substantial expansion of the Museum’s conservation activities and facilities at a future date. Working with the Director, the Associate Director for Institutional Advancement, and others, the Conservator assists in the stewardship of donors, prepares grant documents, and advances funding strategies.

The Museum is a fast paced, team-based environment, producing multiple projects that range in scale and complexity and are subject to demanding timetables. An ability to balance multiple projects simultaneously and to communicate effectively and regularly with many members of staff, including the Museum Director, is essential to the position.

Required qualifications include an advanced degree in art conservation. A concentration in painting conservation is preferred, although a background in the conservation of three-dimensional objects may be considered. A minimum of five to ten years of conservation laboratory work beyond the internship level, including administrative or supervisory experience, is essential. Candidates with additional experience will be prioritized.

With collecting origins dating to the 1750s, the Princeton University Art Museum is one of the finest art museums in the country. Formally established in 1882, its collections feature over 100,000 works of art ranging from ancient to contemporary art and spanning the globe. Its collections of Chinese painting, the art of the ancient Americas, and photography are widely regarded as being among the world’s richest. A private institution serving the public good, the Museum is committed to serving the University, local and regional communities, and beyond through a dynamic program of temporary exhibitions, new scholarship, and innovative programming. By collaborating with experts across many disciplines, fostering sustained study of original works of art, and uniting scholarship with broad accessibility, the Museum contributes to the development of critical thinking and visual literacy at Princeton University and enhances the civic fabric of our nation.

To learn more about the Princeton University Art Museum, please visit http://artmuseum.princeton.edu.

To apply for this position, please submit a cover letter, a CV, and contact information for three references to https://www.princeton.edu/acad-positions/position/682.

Appointment to this position is subject to the University’s background check policy.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Job Posting: Digest 10/25/2016

JOB – ASSOCIATE CURATOR (LATINO DESIGN), Smithsonian Institution (New York, NY, USA)

  • Applications are due by November 14, 2016
  • Job Announcement No. 17A-LG-302166-DEU-CHSDM
  • Work Schedule is Full Time, Permanent – Federal
  • Salary range: $66,940.00 to $87,021.00 / Per Year

About the Agency
SUMMARY
An opportunity to serve as an Associate Curator (Latino Design) for Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, which is the only museum in the country devoted to historic and contemporary design. Candidates must be able to converse in and read Spanish to perform research, writing and other duties associated with the collection and exhibitions.
DUTIES

  • Identifies, locates, and solicits objects for the collection, in addition to researching, interpreting, preparing catalog records, securing image rights, overseeing new photography, and creating web-based content for both new and existing Latino collection objects.
  • Collaborates with the Education Department to initiate and develop ways to interpret, expand audiences and optimize opportunities to disseminate knowledge about American Latino design.
  • Conducts in-depth research and develops a Collections/Acquisitions Plan to guide acquisitions of modern and contemporary American Latino design.
  • Proposes and develops a Latino-focused exhibition and accompanying publication.
  • Engages with the Digital and Emerging Media Team to create Latino-based content.
  • Reaches out to curators, researchers, and educators on Latino initiatives and develops collaborative activities.

KEY JOB REQUIREMENTS

  • Pass Pre-employment Background Investigation
  • May need to complete a Probationary Period
  • Maintain a Bank Account for Direct Deposit/Electronic Transfer
  • Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered with Selective Service.

QUALIFICATIONS
All applicants must meet these Basic Requirements: (You must submit unofficial school transcripts):
1. Degree in museum work; or in art history or museum studies with a specialization in American Latino design.OR
2. Combination of education and experience – courses equivalent to a major, as shown above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.OR
3. Four years of experience that provided knowledge comparable to that normally acquired through the successful completion of the 4-year course of study as shown above.
In addition to the Basic Requirements listed above, you may qualify for this position if you possess the Selective Factor and Specialized Experience below:
All applicants must meet the Selective Factor Requirements: (You application must show written evidence of this requirement)
Selective Factor:Experience conversing in and reading Spanish in order to perform research, writing and other duties associated with the collection and exhibitions.
In addition to meeting the Selective Factor above, applicants must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-09 level in the Federal Service or comparable pay band system. For this position Specialized experience is defined as exhibition and curatorial experience with a collection of American Latino design, 1900 to the present, to perform collections management, scholarly research, exhibition planning/production, publishing, public engagement, and administration.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Part-time and/or unpaid experience related to this position will be considered to determine the total number of years and months of experience. Be sure to note the number of paid or unpaid hours worked each week.
Or Education: Three years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. degree or equivalent doctoral degree in museum work; or in art history or museum studies with a specialization in American Latino design.
Or a Combination: Education and experience may be combined to meet the basic qualifications. For a full explanation of this option please see the Qualification Standards. Special Instructions for Foreign Education: If you are qualifying by education and/or you have education completed in a foreign college/university described above, it is your responsibility to provide transcripts and proof of U.S. accreditation for foreign study. For instructions on where to fax these documents, see the “Required Documents” section of this announcement.
Qualification requirements must be met within 30 days of the job announcement closing date.
Security Clearance: Public Trust – Background Investigation
For additional information and job-specific application information requirements, visit: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/453986500/
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JOB – CONSERVATOR TECHNICIAN, National Archives and Records Administration (College Park, MD, USA)

  • Applications are due by November 15, 2016
  • Job Announcement No. JD1794184TBD
  • Work Schedule is Full Time – Permanent
  • Salary range: $43,057.00 to $55,970.00 / Per Year

Summary: this position is within the Conservation Branch, Preservation Programs Division of Research Services in College Park, MD. The duty location could change to the National Archives Building, located in Washington, DC, as required by workload.
Duties: as a Conservator Technician, your duties will include:

  • Perform conservation treatment on archival records such as: dry cleaning, mending, guarding, humidification and flattening.
  • Stabilize records prior to digitization.
  • Perform preventative conservation activities, such as encapsulation and creating custom housing for archival records in loose and bound formats.
  • Assume responsibility for the safety of all records assigned for treatment.
  • Follow established standards and procedures for handling and treatment.
  • Develop efficient and safe work processes for carrying out projects.
  • Examine and test archival records to determine stability of media and solubility of adhesives.
  • Perform laboratory activities such as maintaining stock solutions and supplies, preparing paste and adhesive coated repair papers, and provide general support in lab functions.

Key Job Requirements

  • U.S. Citizenship
  • Background Investigation or Security Clearance
  • More than 1 job may be filled if additional vacancies occur within 90 days
  • Must be physically able to perform the duties of this position
  • Will use moderately hazardous chemicals in a lab setting

Qualifications: GS-07: Candidates must have had one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level. Specialized experience is experience that has equipped the applicant with the particular competencies to perform successfully the duties of the position as described above, and that is typically in or related to the position to be filled.
Examples of specialized experience for this grade level include: carrying out basic conservation treatments on archival records in a laboratory setting and adhering to instructions to ensure documents are handled and treated in conformance with standard, accepted procedures. Treatments include the following: mending paper in various formats (loose, bound, oversized) using long fiber paper and paste, heat-set or remoistenable tissues; humidification and flattening of rolled and folded documents; mold remediation including separation of blocked or fused sheets; separation of adhesive Attachments containing multiple layers; fabrication of custom housings (boxes, folders, polyester L-sleeves); and making stock lab solutions (paste, methylcellulose, heat-set and remoinstenable tissues). Examining records to recognize the fragility and characteristics of paper and other archival media and binding materials; determining vulnerable parts of records that need protection or stabilization.
Qualifications by Closing Date: You must meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of the announcement. Please note that qualification claims will be subject to verification.
For additional information and job-specific application information requirements, visit: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/449618900/
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JOB – BOOK CONSERVATOR, Northeast Document Conservation Center (Andover, MA, USA)
This position will remain open until filled.
Position Summary: The Northeast Document Conservation Center (NEDCC) is seeking an innovative and creative Conservator to join its Book Conservation Lab. Reporting to the Director of Book Conservation, the Conservator will perform conservation of diverse and unique bound materials held by NEDCC’s institutional and private clients, including printed books and pamphlets, bound manuscripts, scrapbooks, atlases, record books and photograph albums. Responsibilities include performing all conservation activities including examination of objects and development of conservation proposals; documentation; treatment of text blocks and bindings; consulting with clients; and assisting with assessments and educational programs. All work is performed according to the Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice of the American Institute for the Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works.
Qualifications
Required qualifications: A knowledge of physical, mechanical and chemical nature of books and paper as evidenced by graduate degree in conservation or related field of study; knowledge of book and paper conservation principles and practices; an understanding of preservation principles and their relation to treatment options; ability to work independently and collaboratively; ability to work in a productive environment; meticulous attention to detail; documentation skills; excellent written and oral communication skills; and creativity and enthusiasm.
Preferred qualifications: Demonstrated ability to contribute to the profession through teaching, research and/or publication.
The successful candidate will be joining a team of experienced and productive book conservators, and will benefit from working alongside imaging specialists and conservators in other specialties dedicated to the care of books and collections of significance and value.
About NEDCC: Founded in 1973, the Northeast Document Conservation Center is the first nonprofit conservation center to specialize in the conservation and reformatting of paper-based materials. NEDCC’s mission is to improve the preservation efforts of libraries, archives, historical organization, museums, and other repositories; to provide the highest quality services to institutions that lack in-house conservation and reformatting facilities, or those that seek specialized expertise; and to provide leadership in the preservation, conservation, and imaging fields. Its services include book, paper, and photograph conservation; digital reformatting; audio preservation; assessments and consultations; disaster assistance; and workshops and conferences. NEDCC is located in Andover, MA, twenty-five miles north of Boston. For more information, please visit www.nedcc.org.
Only persons with the legal right to work in the United States are eligible. Salary will be commensurate with experience.
Application Process: To apply, please send resume, letter of intent, and names and contact information for three references in PDF format to: Mary Patrick Bogan, Director of Book Conservation, at mpbogan@nedcc.org.
For more information, visit: https://www.nedcc.org/assets/media/documents/2015BookConservator.pdf
NEDCC is an equal opportunity employer.
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JOB – MANAGER OF AUDIO PRESERVATION SERVICES, Northeast Document Conservation Center (Andover, MA, USA)
This position will remain open until filled.
Background: The Northeast Document Conservation Center (NEDCC) is in the process of expanding its digital audio preservation service for libraries, archives, and museums. This service will build upon NEDCC’s successful implementation of “IRENE,” the IMLS-funded optical scanning technology developed by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and the Library of Congress for digitizing grooved audio carriers. NEDCC is now investing in the additional facilities, equipment, and staffing to offer reformatting of audio content on magnetic and other obsolete media using more traditional approaches. NEDCC acknowledges the generous support of The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation for underwriting both the business planning for, and the implementation of, its full audio preservation service.
Position Summary: NEDCC is seeking an experienced audio preservation professional to lead its expanded Audio Preservation Services program. The new Manager of Audio Preservation Services will manage the day-to-day operations of the Audio Preservation Services department, which will use both the IRENE technology and traditional methods for digitally reformatting obsolete audio carriers, such as discs, cylinders, analog tapes, digital audio tapes, and unusual formats (e.g., tin foils, Dictabelts, etc.). NEDCC’s service will help fill a much-needed niche of providing 1:1 transfers with 100% quality control, particularly for those highly-valued collections that deserve a specialized (rather than high-throughput) workflow. Because NEDCC is a conservation center, its service will also place emphasis on the preservation of the carrier as well as its audio contents. In addition to digitization, NEDCC will offer collection- and item-level surveys, cleaning, treatment, and re-housing using vetted and transparent (i.e., non-proprietary) approaches.
Responsibilities:
The Manager of Audio Preservation Services reports directly to the Executive Director, is a member of NEDCC’s senior management team, and is responsible for:

  • maintaining NEDCC’s reputation for care in handling of client materials and rigorously following best practices for digital audio preservation;
  • conferring with clients to evaluate their collections and develop appropriate specifications, workflows, and proposals for their projects;
  • cultivating prospective clients;
  • working closely with the heads of NEDCC’s conservation and digital imaging laboratories on joint projects;
  • hiring, training and supervising a staff of audio specialists and engineers;
  • setting and monitoring high standards for quality control and workflow;
  • developing new services to meet the evolving needs of clients;
  • continually upgrading equipment and software to provide the highest levels of quality and productivity; and
  • staying abreast of emerging technology by attending and actively participating in conferences held by professional and related associations such as IASA, AES, and ARSC.

Qualifications: Applicants should have: 1) detailed knowledge of, and hands-on experience in, all aspects of digitally preserving audio collections; 2) strong communication skills in listening to clients’ needs and clearly articulating proposed specifications; 3) excellent relationship-building skills; 4) strong production, management and supervisory skills to lead the staff in achieving the highest quality results in strict accordance with the best practices for digital audio preservation; and 5) a solid educational and/or experiential foundation related to digital reformatting in general and audio preservation in specific.
It is anticipated that the Audio Preservation Services department will receive an increasingly steady amount of work from large to small institutions as well as private clients whose primary concerns are quality of deliverables and care in handling. The department is projected to grow to full capacity over a three- to five-year timeline and be able to accommodate projects of most sizes and any complexity. In addition to the services referenced above, the new manager will be expected to explore and develop other specialty services to meet the needs of the library, archives, and museum communities.
About NEDCC: Founded in 1973, the Northeast Document Conservation Center is the first nonprofit conservation center to specialize in the conservation and reformatting of paper-based materials. NEDCC’s mission is to improve the preservation efforts of libraries, archives, historical organization, museums, and other repositories; to provide the highest quality services to institutions that lack in-house conservation and reformatting facilities, or those that seek specialized expertise; and to provide leadership in the preservation, conservation, and imaging fields. Its services include book, paper, and photograph conservation; digital reformatting; audio preservation; assessments and consultations; disaster assistance; and workshops and conferences. NEDCC is located in Andover, MA, twenty-five miles north of Boston. For more information, please visit www.nedcc.org.
Only persons with the legal right to work in the United States are eligible. Salary will be commensurate with experience.
Application Process: To apply, please send resume, letter of intent, and names and contact information for three references in PDF format to: Bill Veillette, Executive Director, bveillette@nedcc.org
For more information, visit: https://www.nedcc.org/assets/media/documents/2016AudioManager.pdf
NEDCC is an equal opportunity employer.
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JOB – ARCHITECTURE AND SCULPTURE CONSERVATOR, Kreilick Conservation (Philadelphia area, PA, USA)
Kreilick Conservation, LLC, is a private firm specializing in the conservation of architecture, sculpture, monuments, industrial artifacts,
and objects. We are seeking a qualified candidate with 3-5 years of experience to fill one full time position with our Philadelphia-area based
firm.
Responsibilities may include conducting condition assessments, research, field investigation and testing, treatment design and implementation, and report writing, as well as project management.
Qualifications for this position include a Master of Science degree in Historic Preservation from an accredited graduate program.
Strong analytical skills, flexibility and resourcefulness are necessary, as is proficiency in standard software including Microsoft Office Suite. Strong graphic skills also preferred, including proficiency in design software such as Adobe Photoshop, Sketchup and AutoCAD, or equivalent. Ability to work at heights (i.e. scaffolding and high-reach) is required.
The Conservator is expected to work independently and as a team member; and must display both excellent hand skills and strong communication skills. Travel is required.
Kreilick Conservation, LLC offers a salary/benefits package commensurate with experience and skill level.
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, writing sample, and contact information for three professional references to Scott Kreilick at skreilick@kreilickconservation.com.
Kreilick Conservation, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Posting: Curator of Drawings and Prints, Whitney Museum (New York, NY, USA)

  • Position Level: Manager/Supervisor
  • Education: Master’s Degree
  • Position type: Full Time Permanent

The Whitney Museum seeks a curator with an extraordinary record of exhibitions and publications to fill a newly created position overseeing the Museum’s distinguished collection of drawings and prints. The incumbent will report directly to the Nancy and Steve Crown Family Chief Curator and join the museum’s highly collaborative senior curatorial team at a time of great institutional growth and transformation. This position requires strong expertise in 20th- and 21st-century American art; a specialty in early to mid-twentieth-century art is preferred but not required.
Responsibilities
– Oversee the growth of the Whitney’s drawing and print holdings through gifts and purchases by acquisition committees.
– Help to define the Museum’s collection strategy and display methodology in consultation with the Chief Curator and Director of the Collection.
– Collaboratively shape the scholarly program and research functions of the Museum’s recently inaugurated Sondra Gilman Study Center for works on paper.
– Propose and organize collection displays and loan exhibitions (in any medium), including the writing and preparation of related scholarly catalogues, brochures, and didactic texts; development of educational programs; and fundraising.
– Cultivate external relationships with artists; trustees and various patron groups; members of the press; and colleagues at other institutions.
– Work closely with other curatorial staff and departments in the museum, in particular Conservation, Education, Exhibitions and Collections Management, Publications, Advancement, and Research Resources.
– Approve loans; work with artists, scholars, and other interested parties to access the collection; undertake special research projects for the collection and acquisitions as needed; represent the Museum within the scholarly community through participation in panels, symposia, and other forums; supervise administrative matters related to these activities.
Requirements
– M.A. in art history; Ph.D. preferred
– 10+ years of experience, including a distinguished record of exhibitions, publications, and acquisitions in the field.
About the Whitney
As the preeminent institution devoted to the art of the United States, the Whitney Museum of American Art presents the full range of twentieth-century and contemporary American art, with a special focus on works by living artists. Designed by architect Renzo Piano and situated between the High Line and the Hudson River, the Whitney’s new building vastly increases the Museum’s exhibition and programming space, providing the most expansive view ever of its unsurpassed collection of modern and contemporary American art
Application Instructions / Public Contact Information
Please send resume, cover letter and salary requirements to: hr@whitney.org and state “Curator of Drawings and Prints” in the subject line.
For more information about this position and to apply, visit: http://www.whitney.org and www.nyfa.org/Jobs/Show/19d7eade-e835-4983-914e-91ac91a606a3

Job Posting: Associate Conservation Scientist, Harvard University (Cambridge, MA, USA)

Job ID 40893BR
This is a 2-year term position
Job Summary: Reporting to the Head of the Analytical Laboratory, the Associate Conservation Scientist carries out technical analysis of museum objects in collaboration with conservators, curators, fellows and academics.
Duties & Responsibilities
Administrative
• Select, supervise, and evaluate analytical components of Fellows’ projects.
• Direct and instruct casual employees, contractors, or students as appropriate.
• Participates in planning for lab activities and special projects.
• Practice and promote the Guidelines for Practice and Code of Ethics as established by the AIC.
Analysis and Research
• Collaborate with conservators and curators in technical study and analysis to support the treatment and preservation of the museums’ collection.
• Consult with art historians, conservators in treatment and preservation of collection.
• Oversee, advise, document, and perform sampling, testing, and analysis, including environmental conditions and materials used in art storage, display, and shipment.
• Actively engage in, initiate, and publish original research relating to artists’ materials and techniques.
• Keep lab resources updated and stay informed of trends and developments in conservation science field.
Teaching
• Instruct in conservation materials analysis.
• Responsible for proper use, maintenance, and instruction of lab equipment, tools, and supplies including hazardous substances.
• Provide instruction in conservation materials analysis to undergraduate and graduate students in Harvard University’s History of Art and Architecture Department as appropriate, including History of Art and Architecture 101 and History of Art and Architecture 206.
Institutional
• Work with and provides outreach and content for Communications, the Division of Academic and Public Programs, Curatorial, and Institutional Advancement, and other departments as needed.
• Present public gallery talks and participates in programming as requested.
• Participate in tours for various interest groups.
• Additional duties as required.
Basic Qualifications : Ph.D. in chemistry or physical science and a minimum of 5 years of experience in conservation science and experimental research.
Additional Qualifications
Techniques: GCMS, and pyGCMS, MALDI-TOF-MS, FTIR, UV-vis microscopy and polarized light microscopy. SEM, XRF, Raman spectroscopy required. Experience in the analysis of polymers is preferred.
Expertise in conservation science and experimental research with emphasis on the study of artists’ materials and techniques. Demonstrated ability to conduct scientific research, and a publication record in conservation-related themes and topics. Teaching experience in higher education or professional setting desired. Excellent communication, writing, interpersonal, project management. Knowledge of one or more foreign languages is preferred. Outstanding written and verbal communication skills; administrative and supervisory skills and experience.
Appointment End Date : December 1, 2018.
For more information and to apply, visit: http://tinyurl.com/jhqohaa
Harvard University is equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by law.