Chief Conservator, Special Collections

Stanford University; Redwood City (CA); On-site; USD 125,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

Stanford University Libraries is seeking a full-time Head of Conservation Services to direct the conservation program for special collections. You will plan daily workflows, supervise a small team, coordinate with external vendors, and support exhibit loans to local, national, and international venues.

Based at the Redwood City campus with a modern lab, the role emphasizes collaboration, policy development, and aligning activities with Preservation Department priorities to ensure long-term

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in conservation or related field required or demonstrated equivalent experience.
• Five+ years in an established conservation lab for a research library or cultural heritage institution.
• Experience supervising staff and managing conservation projects.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily operations of Conservation Services and supervise staff.
• Lead staff hiring, training, coaching and inclusive culture.
• Oversee conservation treatment priorities and vendor coordination.
• Support exhibition loans to local, national and international venues.
• Document treatments and workflows with records in FileMaker Pro.

Skills

Staff supervision

Project management

Interpersonal skills

Conservation expertise

Education

Master’s degree in conservation or related field

MLIS/MLS preferred

Tools

FileMaker Pro

Job description

Stanford University Libraries is seeking a full-time Head of Conservation Services to direct the conservation program for special collections. You will plan daily workflows, supervise a small team, coordinate with external vendors, and support exhibit loans to local, national, and international venues.

Based at the Redwood City campus with a modern lab, the role emphasizes collaboration, policy development, and aligning activities with Preservation Department priorities to ensure long-term