Assistant​/Associate Musical Instruments Conservator

Assistant/Associate Conservator of Musical Instruments

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Founded in 1900, the Morris Steinert Collection of Musical Instruments is committed to fostering an understanding and appreciation of musical instruments from all cultures and periods. One of the foremost institutions of its kind, the Collection serves Yale University, the wider community, and the public as a center of teaching, learning, scholarship, and performance. Stewardship, preservation, and thoughtful restoration and maintenance of functional examples are central to its mission.

The Collection, with its rich collection of over 1,300 musical instruments and related objects, is seeking applicants for a full-time, 2-year fixed term position of Assistant/Associate Conservator of Musical Instruments reporting to the Curator with the possibility of an extension. The Assistant/Associate Conservator of Musical Instruments will condition assess and treat three-dimensional objects of a variety of materials in preparation for a comprehensive redevelopment of its galleries, planned to open in Fall 2026 or Spring 2027.

Primary responsibilities include condition assessment of objects selected for exhibition; planning, documenting, and performing complex item-level conservation object treatments both preventive and interventive; completing materials analysis as necessary, including the identification of materials, which may be included in the online catalogue; and assisting the Collections team and contractors in safe handling, mounting, installation and de-installation of objects. The conservator will work closely with the Curator and other museum team members to manage and maintain the collection, assist with exhibition planning and research, catalog and document new acquisitions, contribute to and assist in the maintenance of the collection database, and draft and implement policies and procedures that relate to collections care, access, and risk management.

The conservator will oversee proper storage and preservation of the collection, including environmental monitoring, integrated pest management (IPM), object movement tracking, loans, and conducting a general conditions assessment. The incumbent will benefit from working in an active, shared conservation lab at Yale's Collection Studies Center in dialogue with curators, conservators and conservation scientists from Yale's other museums and collections and its Institute for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage, art handlers, exhibitions staff, registrars, educators, students, and the large conservation community  successful candidate will benefit from working closely with the Conservation Department of the Yale University Art Gallery;

though reporting to the Curator the incumbent will become an active partner of a dynamic and supportive conservation department at Yale West Campus that includes conservators working in different fields of specialization: paintings, objects, furniture, works on paper, and textiles.

Required

Skills and Abilities

1. Self-directed with the ability to take initiative and anticipate actions needed. Excellent interpersonal skills.

2. Demonstrated accuracy and strong attention to detail and excellent observational skills and critical thinking. Superior organizational skills and time management. Ability to work well under pressure.

3. Proven ability to juggle multiple tasks and meet demanding deadlines among conflicting priorities. Positive attitude that supports the department's goals.

4. Proven ability to regularly exercise discretion and independent judgment and to be a team player in active project, office and laboratory environments. Superior technical skills.

5. Proficiency with Microsoft Office:
Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; and Adobe Photoshop. Ability and willingness to become proficient with The Museum System (TMS) database and…