Associate Paper Conservator/Paper Conservator

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Job Summary

The Getty Research Institute’s (GRI) Conservation and Preservation Department seeks applicants for a permanent position of Associate Paper Conservator/Paper Conservator, responsible for exhibition preparation. The Associate Paper Conservator/Paper Conservator will join a dynamic team of conservators, mount-makers, and pre-program and graduate interns, and will report to the GRI’s Head of Conservation and Preservation.

This full-time position is primarily responsible for the examination and treatment of paper-based artefacts in preparation for exhibitions. The Associate Paper Conservator/Paper Conservator will participate in the planning and installation of exhibitions, provide input into the exhibition process and may contribute research and writing in preparation for exhibition didactics and catalogues. The Associate Paper Conservator/Paper Conservator is expected to contribute to research into the collections and methodologies for its long-term preservation including preventative care, and is required to remain current with research and advances in the conservation field. The position will work closely and collaboratively with colleagues within the department, across the GRI and other Getty programs.

The Getty Research Institute is dedicated to furthering knowledge and advancing understanding of the visual arts and their various histories through its expertise, active collecting program, public programs, institutional collaborations, exhibitions, publications, digital services, and residential scholars programs. Its Research Library and Special Collections of rare materials and digital resources serve an international community of scholars and the interested public. The Institute's activities and scholarly resources guide and sustain each other and together provide a unique environment for research, critical inquiry, and scholarly exchange.

Major Job Responsibilities

The main responsibilities of the Associate Paper Conservator/Paper Conservator are to participate in the planning and installation of exhibitions, and to examine and treat paper-based objects in preparation for exhibitions. The Associate Paper Conservator/Paper Conservator is expected to perform conservation treatments to highest current standards, and to prepare comprehensive conservation documentation of objects’ condition and conservation activities. The Associate Paper Conservator/Paper Conservator provides input into the development and maintenance of standards for handling, storage, installation, packing, and shipping of collections, and advises curators, archivists, and other staff on conservation matters. A strong collaborator, the Associate Paper Conservator/Paper Conservator will work with department colleagues, curators, exhibition coordinators, registrars, art handlers, archivists, and other departments on exhibition preparation and other complex projects. They will publish and present their research, and may also do outreach and education to general audiences. They may supervise interns, staff, and contractors, and provide training to staff, interns, professionals, and the general public as needed.

Qualifications

This position may be filled as Associate Paper Conservator -or- Paper Conservator, based on the following qualifications: 

Associate Paper Conservator:

• MA in conservation or equivalent degree
• 5-6 years experience in conservation

-or-

Paper Conservator:

• MA in conservation or equivalent degree
• 7-10 years experience in conservation

NOTE: This position is not eligible for employer-based immigration sponsorship. Applicants must have authorization to work for Getty in the United States without the need for sponsorship, currently or in the future.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrated abilities in the examination, analysis, documentation, and treatment of paper-based artefacts
• Expert hand skills and a record of successful conservation treatments
• Extensive experience with exhibition preparation
• Advanced knowledge of chemical and physical properties of materials, conservation materials, and deterioration processes
• Familiarity and experience with institutional preventative conservation practices for collections and exhibition
• Experience with Oddy testing a plus
• Strong organizational skills including the ability to prioritize and meet deadlines
• Ability to remain calm under pressure
• Creative thinking and excellent problem-solving abilities
• Strong interpersonal skills, including written, verbal, and listening skills; strong communicator
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate with complex teams across disciplines and to build long‐term relationships; excellent team player
• Interest in dissemination to the field and the public; interest in training and mentoring
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, AirTable, and Adobe Creative Suite; knowledge of TMS
• Knowledge of personal safety equipment and standards

Benefits and Perks

Here are just some examples that Getty offers/provides for full-time employees:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance coverage, starting on date of hire. Getty pays 75%-95% of the premium, depending on the plan selected.
• 403(b) Employee investment retirement plan – with up to 5% Getty Match
• Getty contribution of 6%, on behalf of employee, to 401(a) retirement account
• Educational assistance and professional development
• Paid Vacation, Sick, and Personal days
• 12 Paid Holidays
• Many positions have bi-weekly off-Fridays
• On-site Fitness Center at Getty Center
• Community service opportunities

To learn more about our comprehensive benefits and long list of perks, go to Getty HR.