Description:

The Boston Athenaeum seeks a Paper and Photograph Conservator for a two-year, grant-funded, full-time position. Reporting to the Chief Conservator, the successful candidate will perform conservation treatments on paper-based materials and photographs from the collections of the Boston Athenæum and support the work of the Boston Athenæum across all departments.

Responsibilities:

• Document treatments of rare materials with full written and photographic documentation, in accordance with the Code of Ethics of the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works
• In consultation with the Chief Conservator, execute structural and aesthetic conservation treatments on paper-based materials, including, manuscripts, archival documents, maps, prints, photographs, and works of art on paper while exercising a high degree of judgment in applying established conservation principles and procedures
• Collaborate on digitization projects
• Participate in public presentations, lab tours, and conservation related fund-raising
• Participate in disaster response and recovery
• Assist in exhibition preparation and installation, and prepare condition reports for exhibited, loaned, or borrowed collection materials
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

Education:

• Graduate degree in conservation with a specialization in the conservation of paper-based and photographic materials from a recognized training program or equivalent

Experience:

• Two years of work experience in the conservation of paper-based and photographic items, preferably in a museum or library conservation department setting
• Working knowledge of conservation theory and practice and the deterioration and conservation of paper-based and photographic materials
• Demonstrated success performing single-item conservation treatments on special collections materials
• Ability to work independently and to exercise initiative and judgment in planning and carrying out conservation functions
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills
• Familiarity with database and digital imaging software

Must be vaccinated against Covid 19

Research shows that women and people from underrepresented groups often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that someone meets 100% of the qualifications for a role. If much of this job description describes you, then please apply for this role.

How To Apply:

To Apply: Please submit a Cover Letter and Resume using the following link

https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=0c2172f4-dddf-44f5-9300-133cc1de3cd2&ccId=19000101_000001&lang=en_US

We are interested in every qualified candidate who is eligible to work in the United States. However, we are not able to sponsor visas.

The Boston Athenæum is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome candidates who will increase our diversity; we encourage candidates of color and all diverse candidates to apply and are committed to hiring individuals who value a diverse and inclusive work environment. The Boston Athenæum is also committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment. To request a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Director of Business Operations & Augusta Thomas Director of Finance, Christopher Boudrot, at 617-720-7642

Apply by:
July 30, 2022

Salary:
$60,000 - $63,000 / Per year

About this Organization:

Founded in 1807, the Boston Athenæum is located at 10½ Beacon Street on Beacon Hill. A distinguished membership library and cultural institution with a long history at the center of intellectual life in Boston, the Athenæum hosts events nearly every week of the year and supports a dynamic exhibition program. It desires to be a place that is welcoming to all, a place that nurtures a sense of wonder and delight in sharing the joy of physical books, maps, prints, and other works of art, and a place that fosters community and civil discourse as members and guests engage in face-to-face interactions.

The Athenæum’s collections are housed within a National Historic Landmark that is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. The reading rooms—crowned by the silent, barrel-vaulted fifth floor—have served as a haven and inspiration to countless writers and researchers. The library maintains over 600,000 volumes with strengths in history, biography, and literature, as well as fine and decorative arts. Notable holdings include primary materials on the American Civil War; the largest portion of President George Washington's library from Mount Vernon; a first edition copy of Audubon's The Birds of America; a 1799 set of Goya's Los caprichos; one of the most extensive collections of contemporary artists' books in the United States; and numerous artworks, including portraits of notable Americans such as Hannah Adams, John Marshall, and Alexander Hamilton, and by artists such as Gilbert Stuart, John Singer Sargent, Allan Rohan Crite, and Polly Thayer Starr. Membership is open to all, and visitors are warmly welcomed Tuesdays through Saturdays.