Paper and Photograph Conservator

Job Summary:

The Boston Athenaeums Conservation Laboratory a branch of the Technical Services Department seeks a Paper and Photograph Conservator. Reporting to the Senior Conservator the successful candidate will perform conservation treatments on the Athenaeums collections of paper-based and photographic materials collaborate on exhibition preparation and support conservation initiatives across all departments.

Responsibilities:

• In consultation with the Senior Conservator execute conservation treatments on rare paper-based materials including manuscripts archival documents maps prints and photographs.

• Apply established conservation theory methods and practices with sound judgment documenting work with written and photo records.

• Collaborate on exhibition preparation and installation including treatment of materials designing and executing mounting systems and consulting on environmental conditions.

• Troubleshoot and research approaches to item-specific treatments.

• Prepare condition reports for exhibited loaned or borrowed collection materials.

• Organize and execute projects by managing competing deadlines and collaborating closely with cross-departmental teams.

• Participate in public presentations lab tours and conservation related fund-raising initiatives.

• Advise curatorial team on prospective acquisitions.

• Participate in disaster prevention response and recovery efforts.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Education:

• Graduate degree in conservation with a specialization in the conservation of paper-based and photographic materials from a recognized training program.

Experience:

• A minimum of three years experience in the conservation of rare paper-based and photographic materials preferably in a museum or library conservation department setting.

• Demonstrated knowledge of conservation theory methods and practices in the treatment and display of paper-based and photographic materials.

• Demonstrated success performing single-item conservation treatments on special collections materials.

• Experience planning and executing conservation functions both independently and as part of a collaborative team demonstrating initiative and sound judgment.

• Demonstrated understanding of chemical hygiene guidelines (NIOSH OSHA).

• Familiarity with digital imaging software.

• Strong interpersonal communication and organizational skills.

Research shows that women and people from underrepresented groups often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that someone meets 100% of the qualifications for a role. If much of this job description describes you then please apply for this role.

Salary:$62000-$65000/year

TO APPLY:Please submit a cover letter and resume

The Boston Athenæum is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome candidates who will increase our diversity; we encourage candidates of color and all diverse candidates to apply and are committed to hiring individuals who value a diverse and inclusive work environment. The Boston Athenæum is also committed to providing access equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment. To request a reasonable accommodation please contact HR Generalist Nora Conley at or

ABOUT THE BOSTON ATHENAEUM

Founded in 1807 the Boston Athenæum is located at 10½ Beacon Street on Beacon Hill. A distinguished membership library and cultural institution with a long history at the center of intellectual life in Boston the Athenæum hosts events year-round and supports a dynamic exhibition program. It is welcoming to all a place that nurtures a sense of wonder and delight in sharing the joy of physical books maps prints and other works of art and a place that fosters community and civil discourse as members and visitors connect and converse.

The Athenæums collections are housed within a National Historic Landmark that is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. The reading roomsincluding the barrel-vaulted fifth floorhave served as a haven and inspiration to countless writers and researchers. The library maintains over 600000 volumes with strengths in history biography and literature as well as fine and decorative arts. Notable holdings include primary materials on the American Civil War; the largest portion of President George Washingtons library; a first edition of AudubonsThe Birds of America; a 1799 set of GoyasLos caprichos; one of the most extensive collections of contemporary artists books in the United States; and numerous artworks including portraits of notable Americans such as Hannah Adams John Marshall and Alexander Hamilton and by artists such as Gilbert Stuart John Singer Sargent Allan Rohan Crite and Polly Thayer Starr. Membership is open to all and visitors are warmly welcomed.