Corestaff Services is seeking a qualified candidate for the position Museum Specialist/Conservation Project Manager for a one year assignment on a government contract. The position is located at the Museum’s Collection, Conservation and Research Center in Bowie, Maryland.
The primary purpose of this position is to insure effective project management of the various duties relating to conservation programs such as conservation treatment and preventive conservation, including exhibits collections care, for the artifacts in storage and on exhibition. The successful applicant will report directly to the Chief Conservator and is given a high degree of independence in developing protocols. Duties: · Develops systems for tracking conservation projects within the various programs. Works with the project team of conservators to determine timeline, project supply needs, and budget details. · Works with the Preventive Conservator on projects for collections on exhibition, in storage, and in the conservation laboratories. Monitors temperature, humidity and light levels. Monitors dust, particularly in exhibition areas, and for artifacts not stored in closed cabinets. Designs custom enclosures for all types of collection materials where appropriate. Determines and/or suggests appropriate housing materials and techniques, was well as equipment and supplies needed. Develops and constructs secondary supports, mounts, and housings of the artifacts according to specified needs and use. After approval, constructs the support, mount, or enclosure using conservation approved materials and techniques. · Acts as part of the team for regular Exhibits Collections Care (ECC) for monitoring and in situ treatment of artifacts. Provides logistical support for ECC projects in conjunction with appropriate staff members according to the procedures developed by senior conservators to protect artifacts on display. Under the supervision of the Chief Conservator and the Preventive Conservator, reviews and revises the ECC procedures manual which details USHMM approved techniques, materials, supplies and equipment needed for each procedure. Ensures the necessary tools and equipment are available and ready when needed for major treatment and repair projects. Helps assure the team’s work meets Museum standards. Provides progress and condition reports to the Chief Conservator on a scheduled basis. · Participates in macro and micro environmental monitoring projects. Helps determine best methodology for environmental monitoring in areas containing collection materials. Performs tasks such as: placement and collection of remote environmental dataloggers, input of data into computerized monitoring program, measuring light levels, etc. In accordance with directives from the Chief Conservator and the Preventive Conservator, collects and analyzes data and produces written and verbal reports on environmental monitoring, problems, hazardous elements, and possible solutions for environmental conditions for artifacts in the exhibits and in storage. Contributes to the development of more efficient methods of testing, calibrating and using specialized tools and equipment for environmental monitoring and recording systems. · As assigned, assesses condition of collection items for conservation treatment and tests for possible adverse reactions to treatment protocols, such as for solubility. Performs laboratory treatment of artifacts following approved treatment proposals under supervision of the appropriate conservator. Prepares and writes treatment reports. Provides for full conservation documentation of the artifact and its treatment through written reports, photographs, and, where appropriate, diagrams and graphs. Participates in the installation, de-installation, maintenance, repair and preservation of artifacts for special exhibits and for rotation into the permanent exhibit or for loan. Installs or de-installs artifacts as assigned. Assures artifacts are housed, mounted, supported and handled according to Museum standards established through in-lab testing, visual examination, and review. · Helps maintain the conservation technical library, visual resources library, and digital image records. Follows established protocols for filing and retrieving visual images. May work directly with Technical Services to develop and ensure system compatibility of digital records with the museum network. Follows data structures that foster efficient retrieval of information. Assures that digital images are saved in an appropriate format according to Conservation and Museum guidelines. · Is responsible for keeping the Branch records up to date regarding inventory of equipment and supplies. Assists in developing, improving, and implementing laboratory maintenance and safety procedures. May be required to perform maintenance on laboratory equipment and alert the Chief Conservator when specialized maintenance is needed. · Conducts behind-the-scenes tours as required. Responds to incidents or emergencies regarding collections or artifacts on exhibition. Routinely reports on incidents or emergencies to the Chief Conservator. Qualifications: · BA in position-related fields and at least two years of relevant experience · Broad knowledge of conservation and preservation theories, practices, methods, techniques and standards · Broad knowledge of Museum practices, principles and standards for collections care · Knowledge of exhibit mounts, support, housing and case construction · Ability to work independently · Ability to manage projects · Ability to write and communicate clearly · Knowledge of visual imaging systems, analog and digital · Consistency and attention to accuracy and detail · Knowledge of health and safety protocols This is a full time position for one year with an hourly pay of $26.43 and benefits, including ten paid federal holidays, paid vacation, paid sick leave, ACA (Affordable Care Act) compliant subsidized health insurance and a company sponsored 401(k) plan. Corestaff Services, *www.corestaff.com <http://www.corestaff.com/>* is a nationwide professional staffing services firm, specializing in administrative/clerical, information technology and engineering, library/records management and human resources placement. Corestaff Services is an Equal Opportunity Employment Employer. People from racial minority groups, veterans and the disabled are strongly encouraged to apply. For consideration email your resume to *[email protected] <[email protected]>*. ****** Unsubscribe by sending a message to [email protected] Searchable archives: http://cool.conservation-us.org/byform/mailing-lists/cdl/
