Chief Preservation & Conservation Officer

The Jewish Education Project; San Marino (CA); Hybrid; USD 130,000 - 145,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision

403(b) retirement plan

Paid time off

Store and restaurant discounts

Free museum admissions

Guest passes

Job summary

The Lloyd E. Cotsen Head of Preservation & Conservation leads The Huntington’s combined library and art preservation and conservation program.

This role provides strategic direction, safeguarding some 12 million library items and 50,000 art objects, and works with Library and Art Museum directors to set priorities and respond to changing needs. The position currently guides a team of conservators, technicians, and staff, oversees a 10,000 sq ft lab (expanding in 2029), and ensures adherence to

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in preservation and conservation and related professional training.
• Proven ability to supervise conservation professionals and plan complex projects.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for cross-department collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Direct the unified library and art Preservation & Conservation program to uphold national and international standards.
• Supervise conservators, technicians, and administrative staff and coordinate with painting conservation.
• Manage budget, equipment, and laboratory spaces; ensure safety compliance and disaster readiness.
• Oversee environmental monitoring, pest management, and preservation lab operations.
• Represent the department in professional organizations and contribute to field advancement.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Team supervision

Interpersonal skills

Education

Master’s degree in preservation and conservation of library materials

Job description

The Lloyd E. Cotsen Head of Preservation & Conservation leads The Huntington’s combined library and art preservation and conservation program.

This role provides strategic direction, safeguarding some 12 million library items and 50,000 art objects, and works with Library and Art Museum directors to set priorities and respond to changing needs. The position currently guides a team of conservators, technicians, and staff, oversees a 10,000 sq ft lab (expanding in 2029), and ensures adherence to