Functional (Position) Title: Conservation Technician
Position #: R613
State (Job) Title: Program Specialist
Division: Academic Affairs
Department: University Galleries
Reports To: Gallery Director
Position Summary
With generous support from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) Preservation Assistance Grant, William Paterson University Galleries is hiring a Conservation Technician to work on a time-bound project focused on rehousing and enhanced record keeping of the Galleries’ collection of unframed prints and posters. The goal for the project is to rehouse 200 works on paper over the course of 100 hours.
Major Duties and Responsibilities
Retrieve objects from storage for rehousing.
Assess condition and current housing.
Rehouse using archival materials and ensure artworks are properly labeled.
Update condition notes and collection record using PastPerfect museum software.
Identify priorities for conservation and recommendations for deaccession.
Work closely with the Gallery Director to review progress on a regular basis.
Other related duties as assigned.
Education and Experience
Minimum Qualifications:
B.A. in a related field; M.A. preferred.
1–3 years of experience cataloging, conserving, and rehousing 2-D artwork in a museum, library, archival, or gallery setting as well as knowledge of conservation best practices.
Knowledge of museum standards and best practices for the care and handling of artwork on paper.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills.
Excellent organizational and time management skills.
Utmost attention to detail.
Competencies/Skills Required
Preferred Computer Skills:
Experience working with museum databases (PastPerfect preferred).
Comfortable working with spreadsheets.
The position requires experience working with museum collections, knowledge of best practices for collection rehousing, strong project management skills, and ability to multitask effectively and manage several aspects of this project at once.
The ideal candidate is adaptable, attentive to detail, and can analyze, plan, and manage procedures and operations effectively. This person is a logical decision maker who can effectively solve problems.
Other Information
This position is on-site.
Compensation is set at $35/hour for 100 hours.
Most work is indoors often split between an office setting, exhibit spaces, and storage areas which are often low light and potentially dusty environments. Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, bend, and climb ladders.
This description indicates the general nature and level of work performed by employees in the above job. It is not intended to be a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.
About William Paterson University
Founded in 1979, the University Galleries serves as a cultural resource for William Paterson University, neighboring communities, and the region by presenting exhibitions of contemporary art, overseeing the University’s art collections, and offering educational programs. The mission of the University Galleries is to introduce diverse audiences to contemporary art and to enhance visitors’ appreciation and knowledge of the arts.
William Paterson University provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, WPU complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
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