Conservation Technician

Department: Registration and Collections Management

Reports to: Associate Objects Conservator

Job Type: Part-time – Regular

Job Classification: Hourly (Non-exempt)

Workplace Location: Los Angeles – Academy Museum

Summary/Objective:

The Conservation Technician will support the Museum’s conservators and collections registrars in a range of conservation and preservation tasks. Primary responsibilities include preventive conservation, gallery maintenance, environmental monitoring, pest management, routine dusting of objects on open display, and assisting with installations. Additional tasks include preparing cleaning and adhesive solutions, entering data into the collections database, and assisting with minor conservation treatments.

This position is represented by a union.

Essential Functions of the Job:

• Assist with downloading environmental dataloggers, preparing reports, and analyzing the data.
• Assist with preventive and active pest management, including creating anoxic chambers.
• Assist with routine gallery maintenance, including checking light levels and cleaning of open-air displays.
• Examine artwork and create written and photographic documentation. Photography instruction will be provided.
• Perform minor conservation treatments, including solvent and mechanical surface cleaning.
• Assist Textile Conservator with preparing mannequins for exhibition.
• Assist with daily conservation laboratory tasks (e.g., keeping SDS information up to date, preparing adhesives and cleaning solutions, and studio maintenance).
• Assist with material analysis.
• Assist with object handling and moving artwork.
• Communicate and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers by contributing to a positive working environment based on mutual respect, collegiality, and collaboration.
• Assist registrars with various collection handling and database work.

Required Competencies:

• 1+ years of related education, training, and/or experience working with a conservator in an institutional or private practice setting required.
• At least one semester of college-level chemistry with an in-person lab.
• Knowledge of safe art handling practices and Museum collections care.
• Experience writing examination reports for artwork required.
• Experience performing minor surface cleaning of artwork, such as with a vacuum and brushes required.
• Competency in working with power tools and using basic conservation tools, such as scalpels and handmade cotton swabs.
• Ability to read and interpret Safety Data Sheets, laboratory rules, and conservation documentation documents.
• Experience using Microsoft Office for generating reports. Experience using iPads is desired.
• Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
• A commitment to diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to move and transport objects up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to climb ladders.
• Ability to remain in a stationary position for extended periods.

Required Vaccination: Full vaccination against COVID-19 is required, including any booster vaccinations as applicable. Exception: Medical and religious accommodations approved by the Office of People & Culture.

Compensation: The expected salary for this role is $25.00 per hour. The actual base pay offered will be determined by factors such as experience, skills, training, location, certifications, education, and other factors permitted by law. Decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis.)

Benefits:

• Paid time off
• Paid sick leave
• 401k retirement plan with a company match
• Clean Air Commuter Program
• Employee Assistance Program through CompPsych Guidance Resources.
• Free access to 16,000+ online courses through LinkedIn Learning
• Free Academy membership screenings
• Free tickets and screenings at the Academy Museum
• Employee discounts through LifeMart and Working Advantage

To Apply:

• As part of your application, please submit a resume, cover letter, and a minimum of three professional references.

@museumLI