The Gerald R. Ford Conservation Center is looking for a conscientious conservator to run its paintings conservation lab. As the leader of the paintings conservation lab, the conservator will treat works from a broad range of public and private clients throughout the region. The conservator will examine paintings, prepare treatment proposals – including time and cost estimates – conserve artifacts and collections and maintain the Painting Conservation Laboratory at the Ford Center. The conservator will provide preservation expertise and outreach, participate in the Center’s educational activities, and collaborate with technicians, interns and volunteers on painting conservation projects.
Annual compensation range is commensurate with education and experience, if approved.
The Gerald R. Ford Conservation Center is a division of the Nebraska State Historical Society (NSHS). The NSHS is a statewide educational institution that connects people to the past through the conservation center, a library and research center, interpretive sites and museums, and the state archeology and historic preservation offices.
Look at what we have to offer!
- 13 paid holidays
- Vacation and sick leave that begin accruing immediately
- Military leave
- 156% (that’s not a typo!) state-matched retirement
- Tuition reimbursement
- Employee assistance program
- 79% employer-paid health insurance plans
- Dental and vision insurance plans
- Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government
- Wide variety and availability of career advancement as the largest and most diverse employer in the State
- Opportunity to be part of meaningful work and make a difference through public service
- Training and Development based on your career aspirations
- Fun, inviting teammates
- A safe and secure environment
Job Duties
- Examines, analyzes, researches, documents, and conserves paintings from art museums, galleries, libraries, historical societies, government agencies, and private and corporate clients throughout the region.
- Creates written and photographic documentation for conservation examinations, treatments and other activities.
- Maintains conservation documentation in accordance with the highest archival and digital preservation standards as outlined by the American Institute for Conservation. Develops public and private client base for contractual conservation projects.
- Establishes and maintains good client relationships.
- Builds regional understanding and awareness of conservation and preservation of cultural materials through networking and participation in educational outreach activities.
- Represents the NSHS and the Ford Center at regional and national professional meetings.
- Provides training and guidance on conservation-related matters to NSHS staff, interns, volunteers, other regional organizations, and individuals.
- Mentors conservation technicians. Keeps current with developments in the field through reading, conferences, online discussions, and professional contacts.
- Researches new applications of materials, equipment, and techniques to carry out specialized tasks that contribute to improving the care of paintings.
- Other duties as assigned, including but not limited to: helping other departments, participating in interdepartmental committees and working groups, assisting colleagues with conservation treatments and collaborative projects, and participating in community outreach events.
