Head of Paintings Conservation Lab

The work we do matters!

Hiring Agency:

Nebraska State Historical Society - Agency 54

Location:

Omaha NE

Hiring Rate:

$36.000

Job Posting:

JR2025-Head of Paintings Conservation Lab (Open)

Applications No Longer Accepted On (If no date is displayed job is posted as open until closed):

Job Description:

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 Centers 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% (thats not a typo!) state-matched retirement
Tuition reimbursement
Employee assistance program
79% employer paid health insurance plans
Dental and vision insurance plans
Employer-paid $20000 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

At the State we stand by our core values of treating others with dignity and respect acting ethically in all situations and creating an environment where our customer is our top priority. Apply to join our team today!

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.

Requirements / Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications: Masters degree/certificate from a recognized conservation training program with a minimum of 5-8 years post-graduate practical experience at progressively advanced levels - as supported by a portfolio of work; OR an equivalent combination of qualifications and experience.

Other: This position requires travel. As such the incumbent must be able to present a valid drivers license or another form of reliable transportation. Regular and reliable attendance required.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities

Must have acute hand-eye coordination necessary to perform delicate conservation activities and ability to lift and move 30 pounds. Must possess a valid drivers license and be able to provide independent authorized transportation. Knowledge of conservation treatment methods for a variety of paintings ranging from traditional to modern and contemporary. Familiarity with state-of-the-art preservation and conservation principles and methodology; materials science chemistry history of technology art history and fine art. Demonstrated use of logic and reasoning to determine appropriate courses of action or alternative solutions for a variety of conservation problems. Experience with the development of accurate project proposals cost estimates and reports. Ability to interact professionally with a wide range of individuals including colleagues allied professionals and clients; Skilled at soliciting conservation work from outside sources. Capable of coordinating and managing competing projects to meet deadlines in a fast paced environment while adhering to the requirements of the American Institute for Conservations Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive package of pay benefits paid time off retirement and professional development opportunities to help you get the most out of your career and life. Your paycheck is just part of your total compensation.

Check out all that the State of Nebraska has to offer! Benefit eligibility may vary by position agency and employment status. For more information on benefits please visit: Opportunity Statement

The State of Nebraska values our teammates as well as a supportive environment that strives to promote diversity inclusion and belonging. We recruit hire train and promote in all job classifications and at all levels without regard to race color religion sex. age national origin disability marital status or genetics.

Current employees of the State of Nebraska should NOT apply on this external career. Instead go to Workday and access the Jobs Hub - Internal Apply app from your home landing page.