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Art Conservation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MUSEUM ASSOCIATES

Project Conservator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Qualifications: * Master's degree in Conservation, Art History, or a related field, with a specialization in paintings conservation preferred. * Minimum 2 years of experience in paintings ...

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How much do art conservation jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for art conservation in the United States is $69,553.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,000.00 and $99,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Art Conservation position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Art Conservation, a candidate should have a strong background in art history, chemistry, and conservation techniques, often supported by a specialized degree or certification in conservation. Familiarity with scientific analysis tools, restoration materials, and documentation systems is essential for assessing and treating artworks. Strong attention to detail, patience, and problem-solving abilities are key soft skills, as is the ability to communicate with curators, artists, and stakeholders. These competencies ensure the safe preservation, restoration, and continued appreciation of cultural and historic artworks.

What is an Art Conservation job?

An art conservation job involves preserving, restoring, and researching artworks and historical objects to prevent deterioration. Conservators use scientific techniques, art history knowledge, and hands-on skills to assess and treat paintings, sculptures, textiles, and other cultural artifacts. They often work in museums, galleries, libraries, or private studios, collaborating with curators and scientists. The role requires specialized training and education, typically a master's degree in conservation or a related field.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an Art Conservator?

Art Conservators usually spend their days examining and treating artworks, documenting their condition, and applying specialized techniques to stabilize or restore objects. They collaborate closely with museum curators, collection managers, and sometimes external specialists to decide on the most appropriate conservation methods. Routine responsibilities may include researching materials, preparing detailed reports, and performing hands-on treatments in a studio or laboratory setting. This role also often involves preventive care measures, such as monitoring environmental conditions or advising on storage and display to ensure long-term preservation of the collection.

Do art historians make good money?

Art historians typically earn moderate salaries, with income varying based on experience, education, and employment setting such as museums, universities, or private collections. While some may achieve higher earnings through publishing, consulting, or specialized expertise, overall compensation tends to be lower compared to other professions in the arts or academia.

What is the job of an art conservationist?

An art conservationist is responsible for preserving, repairing, and restoring artworks to ensure their longevity. They assess the condition of art pieces, use specialized techniques and materials, and often work in museums, galleries, or conservation labs, requiring knowledge of chemistry, art history, and hands-on skills. Their work helps maintain cultural heritage for future generations.

How do I become an Art Conservator?

To become an art conservator, typically a bachelor's degree in art conservation, art history, or a related field is required, followed by a master's degree in conservation from an accredited program. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or apprenticeships and obtaining professional certification, such as from the American Institute for Conservation, can enhance job prospects. Strong skills in chemistry, fine arts, and attention to detail are essential in this field.

How much do art conservators make a year?

Art conservators typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Senior conservators or those working in specialized fields can earn higher salaries, especially with advanced certifications and extensive expertise.
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Art Conservation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Art Conservation job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 14% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,553 per year, or $33.4 per hour.
Samuel H Kress Fellow in Painting Conservation

Samuel H Kress Fellow in Painting Conservation

Worcester Art Museum

Worcester, MA • On-site

$55K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Description:

Samuel H. Kress Fellow in Paintings Conservation

The Worcester Art Museum seeks recent master’s-level graduates in art conservation for the Samuel H. Kress Fellow in Paintings Conservation. This immersive, year-long fellowship is designed for a conservator at an early professional stage who is ready to transition from graduate training into sustained, hands-on museum practice. Working closely with a project team of paintings conservators and curators, the Fellow will play a central role in the technical study, documentation, and conservation treatment of early European gold-ground paintings for an upcoming exhibition.

This position emphasizes meaningful responsibility within a focused project. The Fellow will be expected to work both collaboratively and independently on a day-to-day basis while benefiting from regular mentorship, consultation, and ethical oversight. The fellowship offers the opportunity to build professional judgment, deepen technical skills, and contribute directly to an exhibition in which conservation research meaningfully informs curatorial interpretation and public engagement.


Position Overview

Under the direction of the George F. and Sibyl H. Fuller Conservator in Charge, the Samuel H. Kress Fellow will assist with all aspects of the exhibition project. Responsibilities include examining and documenting paintings, conducting technical imaging and research, and carrying out conservation treatments in accordance with professional standards and the AIC Code of Ethics. The Fellow will collaborate closely with conservation and curatorial colleagues and contribute to project coordination, documentation workflows, and the synthesis of research findings across multiple artworks.

The position involves sustained, detailed engagement with the paintings in the project, including condition assessment, treatment planning and execution, imaging, and archival and technical research. The Fellow will also contribute to broader departmental activities as appropriate, including advising on handling, storage, installation, and transit, and may serve as a courier for works on loan. Research and technical findings generated through the fellowship will support exhibition interpretation and outreach activities. In addition, this position provides opportunities for research travel, professional development, and support toward professional memberships. These resources are intended to enhance the Fellow's growth, facilitate networking within the conservation community, and expand access to specialized training and conferences.


Grant Eligibility Requirements

This position is generously supported by a grant from the Samuel H. Kress Foundation, administered by the Foundation for Advancement in Conservation. To be eligible, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

  • Be a recent graduate of a master’s-level conservation training program in the United States or Canada, or
  • Be a U.S. citizen who has completed a comparable master’s-level conservation training program outside North America.

Position Title: Samuel H. Kress Fellow in Paintings Conservation

Employment Type: Temporary, Full Time, Exempt

Fellowship Term: 12 Months

Department: Conservation

Division: Curatorial

Reports to: George F. and Sibyl H. Fuller Conservator in Charge

Supervisory Responsibilities: None

Salary Range: $55,000 Annual Salary


Requirements:

Key Requirements

  • A master’s degree in paintings conservation or a closely related conservation specialty from a recognized training program.
  • Demonstrated ability to carry out conservation documentation, technical study, and treatment with care, precision, and ethical awareness.
  • Strong observational skills, sound professional judgment, and the ability to maintain clear and accurate written and visual records.
  • Ability to engage with scholarly research, synthesize information across multiple objects, and contribute meaningfully to collaborative project work within a team-based environment.
  • Comfort working independently within a clearly structured project framework, with the ability to manage time across overlapping phases of research, documentation, and treatment.

About WAM

The Worcester Art Museum connects people, communities, and cultures through the experience of art. Our wide-ranging exhibitions tell global stories—from art made thousands of years ago to works being created today. The Museum’s collection of nearly 40,000 objects, assembled since its opening in 1898, provides a foundation to connect visitors of all ages with art, artists, and the ideas they spark. With strong ties to both our local community and the international art world, the Worcester Art Museum is an essential cultural venue for Central Massachusetts and beyond.


Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility at WAM: At WAM we are committed to building a diverse environment, one where staff feel a sense of belonging, and are valued for their contributions and the perspectives they bring. Please visit our Mission, Vision, and Values page to learn more.


The Museum is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity.