Chief Conservator & Preservation Lead

Amherst College; United States; On-site; USD 110,000 - 115,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Generous leave

Professional development

Job summary

Folger Shakespeare Library on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC seeks a seasoned conservation professional to lead the long‑term care and treatment of its renowned collection as Head of Conservation and Preservation. The role oversees the Gundersheimer Lab, a team of four conservators, and collaborates across collections, exhibitions, and external partners.

Ideal candidates have deep hands‑on expertise in book and paper conservation, strong material science grounding, and proven leadership.

Qualifications

• Graduate degree or equivalent in conservation, with book and paper focus.
• 10+ years of experience in book & paper conservation, including hands-on bench work.
• 3+ years of management experience overseeing lab staff and projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead conservation program and lab operations.
• Oversee treatments and preventive care for Folger collections.
• Coordinate with exhibitions, curators, and external partners.
• Manage budgets, staffing, and documentation for conservation initiatives.

Skills

Book & Paper Conservation

Leadership & Management

Exhibition Preparation

Education

Graduate degree in Conservation (MA/MS) or MLIS with conservation training

Job description

Folger Shakespeare Library on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC seeks a seasoned conservation professional to lead the long‑term care and treatment of its renowned collection as Head of Conservation and Preservation. The role oversees the Gundersheimer Lab, a team of four conservators, and collaborates across collections, exhibitions, and external partners.

Ideal candidates have deep hands‑on expertise in book and paper conservation, strong material science grounding, and proven leadership.