Assistant Conservator

Arizona State Museum (ASM) at the University of Arizona is seeking an Assistant Conservator. The Assistant Conservator (Objects) is responsible for the physical care, examination, documentation, and treatment of the museum's diverse collections which include archaeological artifacts, ethnographic materials, historical items, sculpture, ceramics, textiles, plant-based material, metals, and mixed-media contemporary art. The successful candidate will have a background in the conservation of objects with a strong commitment to ethical preservation practices. A significant component of this role involves collaborating with collections managers, curators, and source or Indigenous communities to ensure that conservation practices align with cultural protocols and modern legislative frameworks (e.g., NAGPRA/Duty of Care guidelines).

ASM is the oldest and largest anthropological research facility in the U.S. Southwest, with expansive collections that are exceptional resources for the teaching, study, and understanding of the region's 13,000-year human history.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

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Conservation Examination, Analysis, Documentation, and Treatment:

• Perform examinations and produce written and photographic documentation, including condition reports, treatment proposals, and final treatment reports using museum records and databases.
• Conduct scientific analysis and imaging (UV/IR, pXRF, FTIR, X-ray) to assess material composition and condition.
• In collaboration with supervisor, curatorial personnel, and stakeholders, collaborate on the design and execution of treatments for objects.
• Contribute to the development of conservation methods and remain current with field advances.
• Collaborate with supervisor and curatorial staff to establish treatment priorities.
• Conduct work in accordance with the American Institute for Conservation (AIC) Code of Ethics and Guidelines of Practice.

Preventive Conservation:

• Perform preventive conservation activities to ensure the long-term preservation and accessibility of collections.
• Assist with environmental monitoring and integrated pest management data collection and interpretation.
• Collaboriate with collections and exhibition personnel.to design and fabricate archival enclosures, storage supports, and custom display mounts.
• Conduct routine collection surveys and housekeeping activities to identify and mitigate potential risks to museum collections.
• Support emergency preparedness activities for collections, including contributing to emergency planning, participating in preparedness training, and inventorying, maintaining, and purchasing supplies for emergency response and recovery.

Exhibitions and Loans:

• Assess the condition of objects selected for loans and exhibitions.
• Prepare collection objects for loan, exhibition, and transport, working closely with the Registrar to ensure compliance with museum standards, loan agreements, and established project deadlines.
• Apply established handling protocols, specialized microclimates, and transit packing methods to support the safe movement and display of objects.
• Collaborate with exhibition personnel on the preparation, installation, and deinstallation of collection objects for exhibit.
• Serve as domestic courier for objects.

Lab Coordination & Public Outreach:

• Support coordination of conservation lab activities and projects.
• Manage and facilitate access for researchers and conservation lab visitors.
• Oversight of conservation volunteers and students.
• Assist with coordinating and tracking the movement of objects in and out of the conservation laboratory.
• Participate in public outreach programs including tours, workshops, and other educational programs.

Lab Safety:

• Assist with conservation laboratory operations including ensuring compliance with federal, state, local, and University of Arizona regulations and policies regarding hazardous chemicals and radiation machines.
• Maintain adherence to laboratory safety protocols and lab cleanliness.
• Inventory, research and recommend laboratory supplies and equipment to support conservation activities.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Working knowledge and experience in object conservation.
• Demonstrated manual dexterity skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to work with hazardous materials.
• Ability to work in a highly collaborative environment, one that values and leverages the benefits of a variety of perspectives.
• Knowledge of the responsibilities and cultural sensitivities involved in working with cultural materials.
• Knowledge of and experience with hazardous chemicals and safety requirements and standards in conservation laboratories.
• Knowledge with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA).
• Ability to operate and knowledge of technical, analytical, and imaging equipment.
• Proficiency with various computer programs (Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Cloud).

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent advanced learning attained through professional level experience.
• 3 years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.

• Master's degree in Conservation or related field.
• Experience working with anthropological collections or composite materials in a museum setting.