The Museum of the Bible located in Washington, DC is seeking an experienced Associate Conservator to join our Conservation team. The position requires expertise in the examination, preservation, and treatments of objects, with a focus on parchment, paper, and books. Serves as consulting conservator for applicable exhibitions. Advises on conservation issues both for loans and collection objects. Implements conservation requirements for exhibitions.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Examines new acquisitions or loan items for display of all collections; notes their condition upon receipt. Plans, performs, and documents conservation treatments for a broad range of objects, in consultation with the conservator. Recommends materials and techniques to be employed. Works closely with Exhibits department for object display/mount choice, strapping, and installation of both loans and collection objects. Maintains and updates conservation files, both physical and digital Performs daily gallery inspections and lightly cleans collection objects as needed according to standard museum best practices. Liaise with conservators, conservation preparators, curators, technicians, art handlers, building staff, Exhibitions staff, and the Registrar’s Office on incoming and outgoing loans, exhibitions, permanent gallery rotations, and storage Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

Education

Master’s degree in Conservation, Art, Museum Studies, or equivalent experience.

Qualifications

Minimum of five years of demonstrated experience in conservation of special collections and knowledge of current conservation principles, practices, and procedures in a museum or archive. Experience in receiving traveling exhibitions, checking artifact conditions, and monitoring galleries for physical and environmental changes. Expertise in the treatment of papyrus; works on art on paper, vellum and parchment; or similar cultural heritage materials. Experience evaluating and treating materials to prepare them for digital imaging and/or exhibitions. Experience in exhibitions including preparation, installation, materials testing and environmental monitoring. Basic photography skills. Champion our mission to invite all people to engage with the transformative power of the Bible. 

Work Environment:

• Physical demands/requirements are as follows:
• Sit for up to 8 hours a day.
• Squat bending at the knees
• Stand for long periods of time.
• Lift up to 10 lbs. for short periods of time