Head of Conservation Services

About the role

The Head of Conservation Services will manage a well-established and dynamic conservation program for special collections materials at Stanford University Libraries. Reporting to the Associate Director for Preservation, this position oversees daily operations, supervises staff, and leads a team of conservators and technicians.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily operations of Conservation Services; supervise staff; coordinate conservation workflows; ensure quality and timeliness of conservation treatments; oversee health and safety practices.
• Lead Conservation Services staff including hiring, training, coaching and fostering a respectful, supportive, and inclusive work environment.
• Manage priorities for conservation treatment of library collections in alignment with Stanford Libraries Strategic Pathways and the Preservation department’s strategic priorities.
• Serve as the primary liaison between Conservation Services and stakeholders across the organization, participating in Preservation department outreach and training activities.
• Represent Stanford Libraries in regional, national, and international professional activities.
• Participate in unit and department planning as a member of the Preservation Department management team with the Associate Director for Preservation and the Preservation Librarian.
• Manage connection between Conservation Services operations in Redwood City and Stanford’s Historic Campus.
• Respond quickly and efficiently to collection emergencies at all Stanford Libraries locations.

Requirements

Minimum requirements include a Master’s degree or advanced certificate from a recognized conservation training program with demonstrated understanding of conservation in academic libraries, or a combination of education and relevant experience. Five or more years of experience in an established conservation lab for a research library or other cultural heritage institution with evidence of capacity to work at a high level of responsibility for appointment at Librarian 3. A minimum of three years of experience in a managerial role is preferred.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree or advanced certificate from a recognized conservation training program with demonstrated understanding of conservation in academic libraries.
• Five or more years of experience in an established conservation lab for a research library or other cultural heritage institution.
• Experience and demonstrated skill in staff supervision.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, and strong interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Knowledge of and adherence to professional ethical practice in conservation.
• Interest in current and emerging activities in material science and scientific research in conservation.

Skills

• Extensive knowledge of conservation theory and practice and its application in a research library.
• Comprehensive understanding of the deterioration of library materials and the physical and chemical nature of one or more of the following formats: books, paper, photographs.
• In-depth knowledge of one or more of the following: history of the book and book structures, history of paper and papermaking, history of photography.
• Experience and demonstrated skill in staff supervision.
• Ability to manage projects, develop policies and drive library initiatives across functional lines.
• Knowledge of and adherence to professional ethical practice in conservation.
• Knowledge of photo-documentation techniques with digital cameras, imaging and editing software, and other technical equipment.
• Experience managing complex projects with multiple stakeholders.
• Demonstrated commitment to supporting an inclusive and respectful work environment.

Benefits

Stanford University offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, retirement plans, and paid time off.

Pay

The expected pay range for this position is $124,864 to $145,000 per annum.

Schedule

This position is based at the Stanford Redwood City campus with work on Stanford’s Historic campus as needed.