Lead Conservator, Paintings Lab — Research & Training

CW Talent; Rockville (VA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 89,000; Full time

Job summary

Colonial Williamsburg Foundation in Virginia seeks a Conservator of Paintings to lead the protection and preservation of its paintings collections, supervise the conservation laboratory, and develop new treatment approaches.

The role entails preparing treatment proposals, collaborating with curatorial staff, training staff and volunteers, conducting research, and giving lectures and public tours within the museum environment.

Qualifications

• Graduate degree in conservation.
• Seven years conservation experience in recognized institutions.
• Proven history of proposed, completed and documented conservation treatments.
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, including professional presentations.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Detailed knowledge of traditional decorative, fine, and folk arts.
• Detailed knowledge of conservation materials and state-of-the-art methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Examine paintings and prepare treatment proposals, perform treatments, and compile reports with photo documentation.
• Determine examination and treatment priorities with curatorial staff to meet deadlines.
• Provide conservation training for Foundation staff as needed.
• Conduct and document conservation assessments and streamline survey reports.
• Manage day-to-day operation of the paintings lab, including time management and supplies.
• Research new approaches to treatment and test materials/methods.
• Supervise laboratory staff, interns, and volunteers with training and appraisals.
• Collaborate with Museums, Preservation and Historic Resources staff on projects.
• Prepare and deliver lectures, demonstrations, and training; publish research where possible.
• Give public tours in labs and galleries and respond to inquiries.

Skills

Excellent communication

Team collaboration

Art conservation knowledge

Prioritization & deadlines

Materials & methodologies

Fine hand skills

Scientific analysis

Education

Graduate degree in conservation

Job description

Colonial Williamsburg Foundation in Virginia seeks a Conservator of Paintings to lead the protection and preservation of its paintings collections, supervise the conservation laboratory, and develop new treatment approaches.

The role entails preparing treatment proposals, collaborating with curatorial staff, training staff and volunteers, conducting research, and giving lectures and public tours within the museum environment.