The Henry Ford is a nonprofit organization, an internationally recognized cultural destination, and a one-of-a-kind workplace. Our team is inspired daily by one another as well as the authentic stories of innovation that we share across our four venues. We want you to be part of this legacy and take it forward.
We are delighted to have a full-time Conservator opportunity. As part of a twenty-two month Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) grant, this position is responsible for the execution and supervision of artifact conservation activities including treatments, handling, re-housing, condition surveys, storage upgrades and digital imaging and the general care of assigned collections. Manages assigned treatments and work areas. Serves as conservation and/or preservation liaison on assigned teams. Provides training and supervision of specialists, technicians, volunteers, and others as assigned.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
- Carries out conservation, examination, analysis, research, and treatment as assigned. Works in a manner that adheres to current standards and the American Institute of Conservation Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice. Remains abreast of current conservation and analytical techniques.
- Provides daily training, technical and administrative supervision for assigned specialist and volunteers. Ensures that work is conducted in a safe manner. Manages assigned staff, laboratories, and work areas.
- Manages the conservation component of the assigned project including the examination, treatment, and movement of collections. This may include coordination with outside contractors.
- Documents treatments and the condition of artifacts using the established format for an online collections management system and digital photography.
- Ensures that work areas are maintained in a clean, organized, and secure condition to ensure both the safety of collections and staff.
- Carries out research on assigned conservation projects. Utilizes technical knowledge to formulate a preservation plan for groups of artifacts. Provides technical information to curators and to the chief conservator regarding authenticity of artifacts.
- Participates in tours and fundraising efforts as requested. Prepares and presents lectures, professional papers, blogs, social media posts and videos as required.
YOUR QUALIFICATIONS
- M.A. or M.S. in art conservation or equivalent training.
- 2 years supervised conservation treatment experience.
- Advanced knowledge of general conservation including microscopy, material science, elementary analysis, and photography.
- Expertise in the conservation of metal, glass, wood, painted surfaces, ceramics, and modern materials.
- General understanding of museum standards for storage and climate control.
- Advanced understanding of collection care and handling principles and standards.
- The ability to design and execute conservation surveys and conservation treatments.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience working with historical artifacts preferred
- Supervisory experience preferred
SPECIAL SKILLS
- General ability to use Windows-based computers
- Good oral and written communication skills
- Good hand-eye coordination
- Must be able to work independently and meet deadlines with minimal supervision.
- Must be able to multi-task.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Work environments include laboratory, imaging studio, and warehouse; frequent exposure to chemicals, dust, and mold.
- Physical requirements include standing, walking, carrying, pushing, pulling and lifting up to 50 lbs. Some climbing stairs and ladders.
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It is the policy of The Henry Ford to prohibit discrimination in any employment, donor or volunteering opportunity (including but not limited to recruitment, hire, employment, program participation, promotion, salary, benefits, termination and all other terms and conditions of employment or service as a volunteer) based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, genetic information, pregnancy, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, age, physical/mental disability. Marital/domestic partner status, military and veteran status, height, weight or any other such characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. This Policy applies to all of our employees, donors and volunteers to ensure that they are treated without discrimination.