Collections Conservator

Preserve Objects. Protect History. Shape the Future.

George Washington’s Mount Vernon is seeking an experienced Collections Conservator to care for and preserve an exceptional Fine and Decorative Arts Collection at one of the nation's most significant historic sites.

This is an opportunity to do meaningful conservation work in a setting where history is not simply studied—it is experienced every day. The Collections Conservator will work hands‑on with a diverse collection spanning paintings, prints, sculpture, furniture, metals, ceramics, textiles, and other historic materials, helping ensure these objects remain accessible and meaningful for generations to come.

The Collections Conservator will have an important role in both the hands‑on treatment and long‑term preservation of Mount Vernon’s collections. This position combines conservation treatment, preventive conservation, exhibition support, collections care, vendor and project management, and collaboration with curatorial and collections professionals.

The successful candidate will bring strong technical expertise, sound professional judgment, and a collaborative approach to the care of historic objects.

Mount Vernon, the former home of George and Martha Washington, is owned and maintained by the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association of the Union, the oldest national historic preservation organization in the United States.

Founded in 1853 by Ann Pamela Cunningham, the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association pioneered the preservation of a historic American site for future generations. Today, the Association works to preserve, restore, and manage the Mount Vernon estate to the highest standards while educating visitors and people around the world about the life and legacies of George Washington.

The Historic Preservation and Collections Department plays a central role in that mission by preserving and restoring Mount Vernon to its 1799 appearance and caring for original, period, and reproduction objects that support the organization's educational mission.

• Perform and document conservation treatments on objects within the Fine and Decorative Arts Collection.
• Assess objects and prepare them for exhibition, analysis, storage, and movement.
• Apply accepted professional conservation practices and maintain treatment standards consistent with the AIC Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.
• Collaborate with curators and collections staff to determine appropriate conservation approaches and priorities.

• Manage the daily operations of the approximately 600-square-foot Objects Conservation Lab.
• Organize and maintain conservation equipment, materials, and supplies.
• Ensure appropriate health and safety practices are followed within the lab and during conservation activities.
• Work safely and appropriately with conservation equipment and chemicals.

• Provide exhibition conservation support for objects displayed throughout Mount Vernon, including the Museum and Education Center, Library, and Mansion.
• Collaborate with exhibition designers, contractors, curators, and other Mount Vernon staff to ensure appropriate conditions for the display and care of artifacts.
• Research and test exhibition materials to evaluate their suitability for use with collection objects.
• Support the safe care and preparation of objects traveling to and from other institutions on loan.

• Monitor the condition of objects on display and in storage in collaboration with Collections Management staff.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies.
• Participate in planning for object movement and recommend appropriate methods…