Collections Conservator

Position Type: Full-Time Exempt

George Washingtons Mount Vernon is seeking an experienced Collections Conservator to care for and preserve an exceptional Fine and Decorative Arts Collection at one of the nations most significant historic sites.

This is an opportunity to do meaningful conservation work in a setting where history is not simply studiedit is experienced every day. The Collections Conservator will work hands-on with a diverse collection spanning paintings prints sculpture furniture metals ceramics textiles and other historic materials helping ensure these objects remain accessible and meaningful for generations to come.

The Collections Conservator will have an important role in both the hands-on treatment and long-term preservation of Mount Vernons collections. This position combines conservation treatment preventive conservation exhibition support collections care vendor and project management and collaboration with curatorial and collections professionals.

The successful candidate will bring strong technical expertise sound professional judgment and a collaborative approach to the care of historic objects.

Mount Vernon the former home of George and Martha Washington is owned and maintained by the Mount Vernon Ladies Association of the Union the oldest national historic preservation organization in the United States.

Founded in 1853 by Ann Pamela Cunningham the Mount Vernon Ladies Association pioneered the preservation of a historic American site for future generations. Today the Association works to preserve restore and manage the Mount Vernon estate to the highest standards while educating visitors and people around the world about the life and legacies of George Washington.

The Historic Preservation and Collections Department plays a central role in that mission by preserving and restoring Mount Vernon to its 1799 appearance and caring for original period and reproduction objects that support the organizations educational mission.

• Perform and document conservation treatments on objects within the Fine and Decorative Arts Collection.
• Assess objects and prepare them for exhibition analysis storage and movement.
• Apply accepted professional conservation practices and maintain treatment standards consistent with the AIC Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.
• Collaborate with curators and collections staff to determine appropriate conservation approaches and priorities.

• Manage the daily operations of the approximately 600-square-foot Objects Conservation Lab.
• Organize and maintain conservation equipment materials and supplies.
• Ensure appropriate health and safety practices are followed within the lab and during conservation activities.
• Work safely and appropriately with conservation equipment and chemicals.

• Provide exhibition conservation support for objects displayed throughout Mount Vernon including the Museum and Education Center Library and Mansion.
• Collaborate with exhibition designers contractors curators and other Mount Vernon staff to ensure appropriate conditions for the display and care of artifacts.
• Research and test exhibition materials to evaluate their suitability for use with collection objects.
• Support the safe care and preparation of objects traveling to and from other institutions on loan.

• Monitor the condition of objects on display and in storage in collaboration with Collections Management staff.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies.
• Participate in planning for object movement and recommend appropriate methods for packing handling and rehousing artifacts.
• Review materials used for packing and rehousing and recommend improvements or upgrades when appropriate.

• Recommend direct and monitor conservation treatments performed by contract conservators.
• Solicit proposals and evaluate estimates for conservation and collections care projects.
• Select and manage vendors and contractors as needed.
• Generate and manage project and operational budgets related to conservation activities.

• Maintain complete and accurate conservation documentation including treatment proposals treatment reports photographic documentation and invoices.
• Assist curators with acquisitions as needed.
• Coordinate analytical testing of objects with appropriate institutions or specialists.
• Collaborate with curators and collections staff in training new team members in proper collections care and object handling.

• Represent the Collections Department in institutional disaster and emergency preparedness activities.
• Contribute to conservation education and professional development through activities such as hosting interns giving presentations and participating in professional organizations and activities as schedules permit.

Were looking for an experienced conservation professional who combines strong technical expertise with excellent judgment organization and collaboration skills.

• MA or MS degree in conservation from a recognized training program with an objects specialization or another specialization relevant to the Fine and Decorative Arts Collection.
• At least six years of museum experience in a similar position.
• Solid knowledge of conservation and collections care practices.
• Working knowledge of conservation laboratory equipment and chemicals.
• Experience managing conservation or collections care projects and budgets.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple priorities.
• Flexibility and reliability including the ability to work extended hours or beyond a normal work week when necessary.
• Ability to work with collections management databases; experience with TMS is preferred.
• Ability to successfully complete a security background check.
• Ability to wear a respirator.