Conservator of Objects & Sculpture

Museum of Fine Arts, Houston; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Research travel funds

Professional development support

Job summary

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH) seeks an Associate or Full Conservator of Objects and Sculpture to join a collaborative, cross-disciplinary team dedicated to the preservation, study, and interpretation of the museum’s expansive collection. This is a full-time position with integration of conservation into broader museum practice.

The successful candidate will examine, document, and treat three-dimensional works, develop treatment plans, and produce robust documentation.

Qualifications

• Graduate degree in Conservation from a recognized program or equivalent training.
• Minimum five years (Associate) or ten years (Full) of post-graduate experience in objects conservation.
• Knowledge of museum standards, collection care protocols, and ethical guidelines.
• Experience with modern and contemporary materials is preferred.
• Excellent written and verbal communication in English, strong documentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Examine, document, and treat three-dimensional works and sculpture per AIC ethics.
• Develop and execute treatment plans for historical to contemporary materials.
• Produce thorough documentation including analysis, descriptions, and handling recommendations.
• Provide condition assessments for acquisitions and loans and advise on preservation.
• Contribute to preventive conservation planning, storage design, and exhibition prep.
• Collaborate with Conservation Science on fabrication methods and deterioration mechanisms.
• Participate in collection-based research, publications, lectures, and conference presentations.
• Mentor interns and fellows, supporting knowledge sharing and growth.
• Engage in public-facing programs to advance conservation understanding.

Skills

English proficiency

Documentation skills

Organization

Project management

Mentoring

Education

Graduate degree in Conservation

Tools

Museum databases

Imaging systems

Job description

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH) seeks an Associate or Full Conservator of Objects and Sculpture to join a collaborative, cross-disciplinary team committed to the preservation, study, and interpretation of the museum’s expansive and diverse collection. This is a full-time position where conservation is integrated into broader museum practices, with an emphasis on preserving and expanding understanding of 5,000 years of global visual art creation.
The MFAH holds an extensive and increasingly diverse collection, with ongoing growth in modern and contemporary art. The successful candidate will possess strong expertise in a broad range of both inorganic and organic materials and techniques across various periods, with significant experience in modern and contemporary works strongly preferred. We are dedicated to intellectual rigor, transparency in decision-making, and a workplace culture rooted in mutual respect and collegiality.

Position Overview

• Examine, document, and treat our three-dimensional works and sculpture in accordance with the AIC Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.
• Develop and execute treatment plans for works ranging from historical to contemporary materials.
• Produce thorough documentation, including technical analysis, material descriptions, and exhibition and handling recommendations.
• Provide condition assessments for acquisitions and loans, advising on long-term preservation strategies.
• Contribute to preventive conservation planning, storage design, and exhibition preparation.
• Collaborate closely with Conservation Science to pursue analytical research that clarifies fabrication methods, material behavior, and deterioration mechanisms.
• Participate in collection-based research and contribute to the field through publications, lectures, and conference presentations.
• Mentor interns, fellows, and emerging professionals, supporting a culture of shared knowledge and professional growth.
• Engage in public-facing initiatives, including gallery talks and educational programming, to advance understanding of conservation practice.
• Contribute to departmental planning, emergency preparedness, and strategic institutional initiatives.

What We Value

• Demonstrates in-depth knowledge of materials and techniques across historical and contemporary practice.
• Brings a wide range of treatment experience and sound judgment in complex decision-making.
• Works effectively within interdisciplinary teams while maintaining independence and accountability in their work.
• Recognizes the ethical and cultural dimensions of conservation, including the evolving role of museums in serving diverse communities.
• Communicates clearly and respectfully, contributing to a professional environment grounded in trust, transparency, and shared responsibility.

Qualifications

• Graduate degree in Conservation from a recognized program, or equivalent education and professional training.
• Minimum five years (Associate), or ten years (Full) of post-graduate experience in objects conservation.
• Comprehensive knowledge of museum standards, collection care protocols, and ethical guidelines.
• Demonstrated record of professional achievement, including significant treatment projects and scholarly contributions.
• Experience with modern and contemporary materials desired.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills; proficiency with museum databases, imaging systems, and standard software.
• Ability to manage a complex workload and meet institutional deadlines.
• Legal eligibility to work in the United States.
• For appointment at the Full Conservator level, candidates should demonstrate sustained professional commitment, an established record of scholarship, and experience guiding complex projects or mentoring colleagues.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Manual dexterity required for the handling of delicate materials and tools.
• Activities may include standing, sitting, bending, kneeling, and climbing.
• Use of appropriate PPE for chemical or analytical processes.
• Reasonable accommodations will be provided in accordance with applicable law.

Compensation & Benefits

Associate Conservator: $65,000 - $75,000
Full Conservator: $75,000 - $90,000

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off, holidays, and volunteer leave
• Retirement plan with employer contribution
• Professional development support and museum membership
• Relocation assistance and research-related travel funds may be available
• Competitive salary commensurate with experience

About The Conservation Environment At MFAH

The Sarah Campbell Blaffer Foundation Center for Conservation is home to a team of 21 conservation professionals specializing in objects and sculpture, paintings, works on paper, photographic materials, textiles, time-based media art, and conservation science, supported by imaging specialists, technicians, fellows, and interns.
The team cares for an encyclopedic collection of nearly 80,000 objects spanning 5,000 years. Our work is grounded in interdisciplinary collaboration, material research, and responsible stewardship. We prioritize mentorship, open dialogue, and equitable professional development. The Center is one of the most diverse conservation laboratories in the United States. We recognize that the diversity of experience, perspectives, and backgrounds strengthens our practice and enriches our engagement with the public.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, is committed to diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion. We encourage applications from candidates whose experiences and perspectives will contribute meaningfully to our work and institutional culture.

Required Materials

• CV or résumé
• Cover letter addressing qualifications, interest in the position, and alignment with MFAH’s mission
• Contact information for three professional references

For Inquiries

Per Knutås
Chairman, Department of Conservation
[e-mail]