Preventive Conservation Specialist

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled Preventive Conservation Specialist to support the art department for safeguarding the long-term preservation of the art collection through systematic condition monitoring, risk assessment, and coordination of third-party restoration interventions. The role focuses on preventive conservation strategies rather than hands-on treatment and ensures that all artworks are maintained in accordance with best practice standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct regular condition assessments and maintain accurate documentation within the collection management system.

• Identify conservation priorities and prepare detailed condition reports and intervention proposals.

• Develop and oversee preventive conservation strategies, including environmental monitoring and risk mitigation.

• Advise on art handling, storage, display, packing, and transport standards.

• Source, coordinate, and supervise third-party conservators and technical specialists.

• Review treatment proposals and reports; monitor project timelines, budgets, and deliverables.

• Contribute to emergency preparedness and collection risk management planning.

• Prepare periodic conservation reports for management review.

Qualifications & Experience

• MA in Conservation, Art History (with conservation specialization), or related field.

• Minimum 8 years’ experience in conservation or collection care.

• Experience in museum, institutional, or high-value private collection environments preferred.

• Strong knowledge of environmental standards, risk management, and art handling protocols.

• Demonstrated experience managing third-party conservation projects.

• Proficiency in collection management systems (e.g., Axiell).

• Excellent organizational, reporting, and communication skills.

• Advanced computer literacy.