Job Opportunity - Paper and Photograph Conservator, Chicago History Museum
Conservator for Paper and Photographs
Full Time
Chicago, IL, US
Requisition ID: 1230
CONSERVATOR FOR PAPER AND PHOTOGRAPHS
Salary Range: $55,000.00 To 65,000.00 Annually
The Paper and Photograph Conservator ensures the preservation of the collection and loan materials. The Paper and Photograph Conservator undertakes diagnostic examination, strategic conservation planning, hands-on practical and preventive conservation work, and documentation for a variety of paper-based materials including maps, architectural records, prints, art on paper, manuscripts, books, and photographs. The Paper and Photograph Conservator also educates and provides advice and technical assistance to the staff and the general public on the preservation, storage, and handling of historical artifacts and provides staff training and guidance regarding personal and environmental safety in regard to the storage and handling of collection materials.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Undertake examination and assessments of artifacts, conservation treatments, preventive conservation work, and complete documentation for artifacts in the collection and on loan to the Society.
Assist colleagues within and outside the department with environmental monitoring, collection surveys, packing objects for storage and/or transport, preparation of objects for public exhibit, and installation/deinstallation
Develop comprehensive strategies to address short-term and long-range preservation needs in collaboration with CHM staff and outside consultants
Develop and implement preservation initiatives in collaboration with CHM staff, including project planning, grant writing, and progress reports
Coordinate exhibition conservation planning in collaboration with CHM staff (and when appropriate with outside contractors) including specifications for appropriate display materials, mounting techniques, environmental parameters, and installation of artifacts
Participate in the development of institutional policies, procedures, and strategies governing the use of the collection
Advise the Andrew W. Mellon Director of Collections, Head of Collections, and Curatorial Affairs and Registrar in developing annual departmental goals, objectives, and budget
Advise CHM staff on preservation and conservation issues including environmental, packing, display, storage, and handling specifications for new acquisitions, collection materials, and incoming and outgoing loans
Perform technical examination and analysis as needed to identify materials and construction techniques, and to assess materials for use in storage, exhibition, and treatments
Provide professional guidance and advice to staff, other organizations and institutions, and the public on a range of conservation and preservation issues
Maintain a conservation laboratory, including procurement of necessary equipment and supplies and the creation and management of conservation records, including examination reports, treatment proposals, and treatment reports
Ensure the safe storage of all conservation materials and supplies, including adherence to all appropriate regulations regarding hazardous materials
Collaborate with Properties, Security, and other Collections staff to maintain disaster preparedness; in the event of an emergency, serve as a key member of the Collection Emergency Response Team and participate as needed in any resulting collections recovery effort
Recruit, train, and supervise interns, volunteers, and temporary and contract staff and mentor them to help them achieve their highest potential
Conduct training sessions in handling and collections care for new staff, interns, and volunteers
Coordinate and oversee contract conservation services
Create a team spirit and enhance communication within the Collections Department so that staff members work collaboratively and in a supportive manner across departmental and functional area boundaries
Contribute to and promote a positive culture at CHM by demonstrating the following values in their interactions with colleagues, external partners, and all audiences and through the products developed and services delivered
OTHER DUTIES:
Serve as member or chair of Institutional Committees, as appropriate
Host lab tours, workshops and presentations to CHM staff, outside professionals, and members of the public
Serve as conservation liaison and provide professional guidance to regional museums and the general public, providing consultations, resource referrals, printed materials, lectures, and tours
Represent CHM at local, national, and international forums
Other duties as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS:
Degree from an accredited conservation program; significant experience may be considered in lieu of an advanced degree
Minimum of three years of experience performing relevant conservation projects, assessments and treatments on a wide range of objects and materials
Knowledge of best practices for conservation as well as standard professional principles and practices for museums
Experience in conservation for exhibition design and preparation of objects for exhibition
Experience with relevant technologies, including literacy in commonly used computer applications; experience with collections management software preferred
Experience working in teams, as well as independently, to meet departmental goals
Excellent project management skills
Excellent organizational skills and ability to multitask, prioritize, and work efficiently to meet expectations in a deadline-driven environment
Ability to lift, carry or otherwise move and position objects weighing up to 50 pounds
Ability to ascend and descend ladders and lifts
Ability to supervise people and to manage complex programs and projects
Ability to work under pressure
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Superior visual acuity, fine motor skills, and attention to detail
Ability to balance multiple tasks, responsibilities, and demands for time
Ability to work under pressure
Ability to deal diplomatically and effectively with all constituents
Willingness to work occasional evenings and/or weekends
Commitment to the mission, values, and programs of the Chicago History Museum
In accordance with CHM’s flexible work policy, this position will be a combination of on-site and remote work, required to work on-site at the Chicago History Museum a minimum of two days per week.
To Apply: Please submit the following as a single document: cover letter and resume. Online submissions with incomplete information may not be considered. E/O/E D/V/M/F. No Phone Calls please.
This job posting is not intended to be an express or implied contract between CHM and any employee.CHM employees are employees at will. CHM reserves the right to change or assign other duties to this position as necessary to meet changing business needs. CHM is an equal opportunity employer.
Apply at:
https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=5b362fba-f53e-4789-bc85-d104f0b9a79c&ccId=19000101_000001&jobId=412524&source=CC2&lang=en_UShttps://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=5b362fba-f53e-4789-bc85-d104f0b9a79c&ccId=19000101_000001&jobId=412524&source=CC2&lang=en_US