Assistant Conservator

About the role

The Assistant Conservator (Objects) at the Arizona State Museum (ASM) at the University of Arizona is responsible for the physical care, examination, documentation, and treatment of the museum’s diverse collections. The successful candidate will have a background in the conservation of objects with a strong commitment to ethical preservation practices.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• Collaborate with supervisor, curatorial personnel, and stakeholders to 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.
• 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.
• Design and fabricate archival enclosures, storage supports, and custom display mounts.
• Serve as domestic courier for objects.
• Support coordination of conservation lab activities and projects.
• Manage and facilitate access for researchers and conservation lab visitors.
• Oversight of conservation volunteers and students.
• Coordinate and track the movement of objects in and out of the conservation laboratory.
• Participate in public outreach programs including tours, workshops, and other educational programs.
• Aid in conservation laboratory operations, 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.

Requirements

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).

Qualifications

• 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 preferred.
• Experience working with anthropological collections or composite materials in a museum setting preferred.
• 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).
• Proficiency with various computer programs (Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Cloud).

Skills and Abilities

• Working knowledge and experience in object conservation.
• Demonstrated manual dexterity skills.
• Effective communication skills, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to work with hazardous materials.
• Ability to work in a highly collaborative environment, valuing and leveraging 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.
• Ability to operate and knowledge of technical, analytical, and imaging equipment.
• Proficiency with various computer programs (Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Cloud).

Benefits

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!