Job Title: Margaret H. and William E. Massey Senior Conservator of Paintings and Head of Painting Conservation

Pay/Hours/Benefits: The role is full-time, salaried position with benefits and an annual salary of $95,000. The Commonwealth of Virginia offers a comprehensive total compensation package that includes health benefits, paid leave, and flexible work schedules.

Institution/Work Location/s: Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 200 N. Arthur Ashe Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23220

Application Deadline: December 4, 2026

Brief Description: 

The VMFA is pleased to announce a job opening for the Margaret H. and William E. Massey Senior Conservator of Paintings.  We are currently seeking applications for an experienced, adaptable, and inspirational individual to join our Conservation Department as the Head of the Painting Conservation Department.

The Margaret H. and William E. Massey Senior Conservator of Paintings provides leadership, oversight, and expertise in the conservation and preservation of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts’ collection of paintings on canvas and panel, in support of the museum’s mission and strategic plan. Working collaboratively with colleagues within Conservation and across the museum, the Senior Conservator of Paintings oversees all aspects of the care of paintings in the permanent collection and, as appropriate, works on loan to the Museum. Responsibilities include examination, documentation, treatment, technical research, preventive conservation, and the development and implementation of priorities for the long-term preservation of the collection.

The Senior Conservator of Paintings works closely with curators and other museum colleagues, applying established conservation standards and ethical principles to preserve the physical integrity, aesthetic qualities, and historical significance of each work while supporting the museum’s exhibition, loan, acquisition, and programmatic needs. The position partners with the Chief Conservator to provide leadership, vision, and management of the paintings conservation staff and collaborates with the Chief Conservator and other Senior Conservators on departmental strategic planning, priorities, and budget management.

The Senior Conservator of Paintings also contributes to the museum’s public engagement and educational programs through activities such as laboratory tours, presentations to visiting groups and museum audiences, responses to public inquiries, and presentations of conservation projects and activities. The position may also contribute to fundraising and development initiatives by communicating the significance and impact of conservation work to donors and other stakeholders.

National and international travel may be required for research, conferences, workshops, teaching opportunities, and activities related to exhibitions, loans, and new acquisitions.

Contact Info/Link to Online Application: 

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and other application materials via the Margaret H. and William E. Massey Senior Conservator of Paintings – Richmond, Virginia, United States