Associate Conservator of Objects & Sculpture

Position Overview

The Associate / Full Conservator will:

• Examine, document, and treat our three-dimensional works and sculpture in accordance with the AIC Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.
• Develop and execute treatment plans for works ranging from historical to contemporary materials.
• Produce thorough documentation, including technical analysis, material descriptions, and exhibition and handling recommendations.
• Provide condition assessments for acquisitions and loans, advising on long-term preservation strategies.
• Contribute to preventive conservation planning, storage design, and exhibition preparation.
• Collaborate closely with Conservation Science to pursue analytical research that clarifies fabrication methods, material behavior, and deterioration mechanisms.
• Contribute to collection-based research and contribute to the field through publications, lectures, and conference presentations.
• Mentor interns, fellows, and emerging professionals, supporting a culture of shared knowledge and professional growth.
• Engage in public-facing initiatives, including gallery talks and educational programming, to advance understanding of conservation practice.
• Contribute to departmental planning, emergency preparedness, and strategic institutional initiatives.

Qualifications

• Graduate degree in Conservation from a recognized program, or equivalent education and professional training.
• Minimum five years (Associate), or ten years (Full) of post-graduate experience in objects conservation.
• Comprehensive knowledge of museum standards, collection care protocols, and ethical guidelines.
• Demonstrated record of professional achievement, including significant treatment projects and scholarly contributions.
• Experience with modern and contemporary materials desired.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills; proficiency with museum databases, imaging systems, and standard software.
• Able to manage a complex workload and meet institutional deadlines.

About The Conservation Environment

The Sarah Campbell Blaffer Foundation Center for Conservation is home to a team of 21 conservation professionals specializing in objects and sculpture, paintings, works on paper, photographic materials, textiles, time-based media art, and conservation science, supported by imaging specialists, technicians, fellows, and interns. The team cares for an encyclopedic collection of nearly 80,000 objects spanning 5,000 years. Our work is grounded in interdisciplinary collaboration, material research, and responsible stewardship. We prioritize mentorship, open dialogue, and equitable professional development. The Center is one of the most diverse conservation laboratories in the United States.

Compensation & Benefits

• Associate Conservator: $65,000 - $75,000
• Full Conservator: $75,000 - $90,000
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off, holidays, and volunteer leave
• Retail plan with employer contribution
• Professional development support and museum membership
• Relocation assistance and research-related travel funds may be available
• Competitive salary commensurate with experience

About The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH) is committed to diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion. We encourage applications from candidates whose experiences and perspectives will contribute meaningfully to our work and institutional culture.

Contact Information

To apply, submit application materials via the MFAH Careers Portal: https://www.mfah.org/about/careers

Required Materials:

• CV or résumé
• Cover letter addressing qualifications, interest in the position, and alignment with MFAH’s mission
• Contact information for three professional references

For Inquiries

Per Knutås
Chairman, Department of Conservation
pknutas@mfah.org