Textile Conservator is responsible for the execution and supervision of artifact conservation activities related to the preparation of exhibitions, loans, condition surveys and the general care of assigned collections. Specific responsibilities include all aspects of preservation for the museum's Historical Collections including but not limited to: quilts, coverlets, clothing, upholstery and framed textiles. Serves as conservation and/or preservation liaison on assigned projects including condition surveys, storage upgrades, artifact loans, grants and exhibitions. Provide training and supervision of specialists, volunteers and others as assigned. Reports to the Chief Conservator.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 1. Carries out conservation examination, analysis, research and treatment as assigned. Works in a manner that adheres to current standards and the American Institute of Conservation Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice. Remains abreast of current conservation and analytical techniques. 2. Provides training and technical supervision on assigned projects for specialists and volunteers. Insures that work is conducted in a safe manner. Manages assigned laboratories, work areas and budgets. 3. Manages the conservation component of assigned projects including storage upgrades, exhibitions, condition assessments, grant writing and the storage of collections. This may include coordination with outside contractors. Conduct surveys of assigned collections in order to establish the treatment priorities and to advise treatment plans, storage upgrades, accessions and deaccessions. 4. Documents treatments and the condition of artifacts using the established format for an online collections management system and digital photography. 5. Ensures that labs are maintained in a clean, organized and secure condition to insure both the safety of collections and staff. 6. Carries out research on assigned conservation projects. Utilizes technical knowledge to assess the feasibility of using collection items in programming, exhibition, loans and marketing displays. Provide technical information to curators and to the Chief Conservator regarding authenticity of artifacts. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS Requires MS or MA in textile conservation or equivalent training and 2 years supervised conservation treatment experience. Advanced knowledge of textile conservation methods, materials and processes required, including the ability to evaluate the condition of artifacts. Candidate must be able to work both in a team and independently as required to execute treatments and to prepare artifacts for storage, loan or exhibition. Experience conserving a variety of organic and inorganic materials including natural and synthetic fibers, feathers, leather and metallic fibers preferred. An understanding of material science and identification techniques including microscopy and elementary analysis required. General ability to use Windows-based computers; good oral and written communication skills; good hand-eye coordination. General understanding of museum standards for exhibition, storage and climate control. Experience working with historic costumes and domestic textiles required. Supervisory experience preferred Mary Fahey Chief Conservator P: 313 982 6072 C: 313 920 7602 E: [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]> ................................................ The Henry Ford 20900 Oakwood Boulevard Dearborn, MI 48124 Gain Perspective. Get Inspired. Make History. ****** Unsubscribe by sending a message to [email protected] Archives through August 2016 at http://cool.conservation-us.org/byform/mailing-lists/cdl/ Archives from September 2016 onward at https://www.mail-archive.com/[email protected]/
