Assistant Conservator

Description:

The Assistant Conservator assists the Costume Institute's Conservation department with the care, display, and conservation of the department's collection. The department maintains an active exhibition, loan, acquisitions, and collection assessment schedule. The Assistant Conservator's duties are broken into two main areas: conservation support for the department’s collection and handling potential and new acquisitions. The Assistant Conservator additionally provides conservation support for all other departmental responsibilities. Duties include: examining and documenting artworks with condition and treatment reports; conducting treatments; performing materials and scientific analyses; object mounting; loan couriering; and creating and maintaining digital assets. Other responsibilities include carrying out preventive conservation tasks, performing consultations, and lab maintenance duties as requested.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILIES & DUTIES:

• Carry out condition reports, treatments, mounting and installation in support of the museum’s exhibitions and other projects

• Review and evaluate potential acquisitions, collaborate with curatorial and collections staff to maintain and process new acquisitions, and create and maintain tracking records

• Participate in daily activities including exhibition maintenance, lab maintenance and safety, ordering supplies, using/maintaining equipment, and other activities

• Support and supervise department interns, fellows, and volunteers when appropriate

• Assist in special projects as required

• Respond to consultation requests

• Manage the conservation program for internal exhibitions as assigned

• As time allows, contribute to the department's research and publication program as set forth by the head Conservator and Curator-in-Charge

• Other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Graduate degree from a recognized conservation training program

• Strong knowledge of conservation principles, ethics, materials, and techniques for costume conservation with demonstrated high standards of conservation treatment experience

• Knowledge of fashion history

• Minimum of 2 years as a practicing conservator; Museum experience favored

• Demonstrated experience and knowledge in the treatment and preservation of historic costumes, textiles, and accessories

• A high level of manual skill and ability to complete treatments in an efficient manner in order to fulfill a heavy exhibition and loan schedule

• Demonstrated effective prioritization and project management experience

• Proven ability to document treatments

• Proven ability to perform scientific and material analyses of objects

• Proven ability to create, modify and dress mannequins according to conservation protocols

• Knowledge of sewing techniques and garment construction

• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written)

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail

• Must be a proactive and communicative team player with proven follow-through