Assistant Conservator, Paper Conservation

Assistant Conservator

The Art Institute of Chicago shares its singular collections with our city and the world. We collect, care for, and interpret works of art across time, cultures, geographies, and identities. We are a place of gathering and learning, committed to fostering an inclusive understanding of human creativity.

The Assistant Conservator plays an important role in the preservation, research, and stewardship of works of art on paper and other paper-based collections. Working collaboratively with conservators, scientists, curators, registrars, and collections staff, this position conducts examinations, research, and conservation treatments and supports long-term care of the museum's permanent collection, exhibitions, acquisitions, and loans.

The Assistant Conservator contributes to innovative conservation practices through technical study, scholarly research, and professional engagement. This role also supports the museum's commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where varied perspectives and experiences strengthen our work and mission.

Responsibilities

• Prepare treatment proposals in consultation with the William
  
  E. Urschel Family Director of Paper, Photography and Media Conservation and specialty conservators.
• Examine, assess, and document the condition of works of art on paper and related collection materials.
• Perform conservation treatments appropriate to the needs of the collection.
• Utilize technical imaging, material analysis, and other examination methods to inform treatment decisions.
• Support preventive conservation initiatives in galleries, storage, and transit.
• Respond to collection emergencies as requested.

• Conduct examinations and prepare condition documentation for works entering or leaving the museum.
• Review and assess works under consideration for acquisition and prepare related conservation documentation.
• Support exhibitions, including condition reporting, treatment recommendations, and compliance with lender requirements.
• Serve as an artwork courier, in person or virtually, when needed.

• Maintain accurate conservation documentation in departmental, collection management, and digital asset systems in accordance with museum and archival standards.

• Contribute to laboratory maintenance and safety practices.
• Research, recommend, and order conservation materials and supplies with the Administrative Coordinator for Conservation and Science.

• Communicate with colleagues regarding project priorities, goals, and timelines.
• Collaborate across departments to support collection care, exhibitions, research initiatives, and institutional priorities.
• Foster an inclusive and respectful work environment that values diverse perspectives, experiences, and contributions.

• Conduct research on artists' techniques, materials, and conservation methodologies.
• Contribute to the advancement of the conservation field through scholarly research and investigation.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and best practices and explore their application to the museum's collections.
• Perform basic technical analysis following training and collaborate with conservation scientists on advanced scientific investigations.

• Publish and share research findings through museum publications, journals, presentations, social media, and other professional forums.
• Attend conferences, workshops, and professional meetings.
• Correspond with conservation professionals, scholars, and researchers regarding technical inquiries and collaborative projects.
• Participate in public-facing activities, including lectures, tours, and educational programs.

• Support the supervision and mentorship of interns, volunteers, and visiting scholars.
• Assist in training art handlers, photographers, and other museum staff on the safe handling and care of collection materials.

Qualifications

• Master's degree from a recognized conservation training program or equivalent education, training, and experience.
• Two or more years of postgraduate conservation experience in a museum, library, archive, or related institution.
• Demonstrated expertise in examining and treating prints, drawings, manuscripts, and other paper-based collections.
• Knowledge of conservation theory, ethics, treatment methodologies, documentation standards, and preventive conservation.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare reports and convey technical information to diverse audiences.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple…