Interventive Book & Paper Conservator

Jdr Recruitment; Belfast; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

Interventive Conservator role at Public Record Office, Belfast, working on historic archives for a Northern Ireland Civil Service assignment. 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday, with a temporary contract from 8 October 2026 to 31 March 2027.

You will assess damage, perform interventive treatments, and advise on handling of archival materials. The role requires an MA in practical conservation (book/paper) and experience with ICON/ICRI standards, plus preventive conservation knowledge.

Qualifications

• An MA in practical conservation course specialising in book and paper conservation.
• Experience evaluating conservation damage and risks to archival collections.
• Experience completing and documenting treatments in line with ICON or ICRI standards.
• Understanding preventive conservation and deterioration reduction.

Responsibilities

• Assess conservation damage and risks affecting historic records.
• Carry out and document interventive conservation treatments on books and paper.
• Survey material before use, loan or exhibition.
• Mount PRONI documents for exhibitions.
• Produce custom enclosures and rehouse vulnerable material.
• Support the safe storage and handling of historic collections.
• Undertake mould removal where required.
• Advise staff and visitors on appropriate use of historic material.
• Deliver short talks to visitors and tour groups.

Skills

Book and paper conservation

Conservation damage assessment

Preventive conservation

Documentation of treatments

Education

MA in practical conservation / book and paper conservation

Job description

Interventive Conservator role at Public Record Office, Belfast, working on historic archives for a Northern Ireland Civil Service assignment. 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday, with a temporary contract from 8 October 2026 to 31 March 2027.

You will assess damage, perform interventive treatments, and advise on handling of archival materials. The role requires an MA in practical conservation (book/paper) and experience with ICON/ICRI standards, plus preventive conservation knowledge.