BOSTON ATHENAEUM PAPER CONSERVATOR The Boston Athenaeum seeks an experienced Paper Conservator that will support the daily and long-term work of the Conservation Department. This includes performing conservation treatments on paper-based materials from the collections of the Boston Athenaeum. The ideal candidate will be hard-working, organized, and will have at least 5 years experience in conservation work on paper-based items. The Paper Conservator will report to Dawn Walus, the Chief Conservator.
This assignment is temporary and will last 6 months with the hope to expand the position beyond the initial funding period. Benefits include pro-rated sick time and a temporary Athenaeum membership. Hours: Flexible schedule; About 24 hours per week. RESPONSIBILITIES * Documents treatments of rare materials with full written and photographic documentation, in accordance with the Code of Ethics of the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works. * In consultation with the Chief Conservator, executes structural and aesthetic conservation treatments on paper-based materials, including: manuscripts, archival documents, maps, prints, and works of art on paper while exercising a high degree of judgment in applying established conservation principles and procedures. * Collaborates on digitization projects. * Participates in public presentations, lab tours, and conservation related fundraising. * Participates in disaster response and recovery. * Assists in exhibition preparation and installation, and prepares condition reports for exhibited, loaned, or borrowed collection materials. * Performs all other duties as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS * Submit to and pass a background check, including criminal history, personal references, employment verifications and Registry of Motor Vehicles (if applicable). * Graduate degree in conservation with a specialization in the conservation of works of art on paper from a recognized training program or equivalent. * Five or more years experience in the conservation of paper-based items, preferably in a museum or library conservation department setting. * Working knowledge of conservation theory and practice and the deterioration and conservation of paper-based materials. * Demonstrated success performing single-item conservation treatments on special collections materials. * Familiarity with database and digital imaging software. * Experience with photographic materials preferred. * Excellent communication, organizational, and multi-tasking skills. * Ability to work both independently and in collaboration with others in a highly professional manner. * Commitment to fostering a workplace culture of teamwork, diversity, and inclusion. TO APPLY: Please send a cover letter and resume to [email protected]. The Boston Athenaeum is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage individuals of diverse backgrounds to apply and are committed to hiring individuals who value a diverse and inclusive work environment. Retirees welcome. ABOUT THE BOSTON ATHENAEUM Founded in 1807 as "a fountain, at which all, who choose, may gratify their thirst for knowledge," the Boston Athenaeum has evolved into a beloved subscription library, specializing in history, biography, literature, and art. 5,000 Households maintain active memberships in the Athenaeum, and enjoy a range of services from individualized reference assistance to superb childrenís programming, from discussion groups to curated selections of digital and print resources. Tourists and scholars from around the world consult the quarter-million rare items in the collection, which includes George Washingtonís personal library; an important collection of early American portraits; rich holdings related to the Civil War and documenting New Englandís built environment; and the Athenaeumís own historical archives, attesting to the institutionís role in American arts and letters. Each year, the Athenaeum offers hundreds of cultural programsó including lectures, concerts, performances, exhibitions, and tastingsówithin its exquisite National Historic Landmark structure, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. THE BOSTON ATHENAEUM ****** Unsubscribe by sending a message to [email protected] Searchable archives: http://cool.conservation-us.org/byform/mailing-lists/cdl/
