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Artifact Conservation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Archaeologist IV

$75K - $95K/yr

Develops and refines artifact recovery, documentation, and conservation techniques. * Ensures consistency and accuracy in field data collection through quality control measures. Data Analysis and ...

Archaeologist IV

$75K - $95K/yr

Develops and refines artifact recovery, documentation, and conservation techniques. * Ensures consistency and accuracy in field data collection through quality control measures. Data Analysis and ...

Registrar

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$56K - $79K/yr

Assess conservation proposals with the curators; identify conservation resources. * Maintain ... Safely handle artifact and archival collections in a variety of media. * Examine and document ...

... conservation facility, interpretive sites, the state archeology and historic preservation offices ... Knowledge and familiarity of Great Plains or Nebraska archeology, culture, history, and artifact ...

... conservation facility, interpretive sites, the state archeology and historic preservation offices ... Knowledge and familiarity of Great Plains or Nebraska archeology, culture, history, and artifact ...

Assess conservation proposals with the curators; identify conservation resources. Maintain ... Safely handle artifact and archival collections in a variety of media. Examine and document ...

Museum Technician

Orange, VA · On-site

$37K - $46K/yr

Notifies supervisor of any structural or artifact-related problem, especially when conservation or object safety measures are needed Provides general departmental support as needed: Assists with ...

Oversee the care, documentation, and conservation of antique automobiles and related artifacts ... artifact handling.The role occasionally requires evening and weekend hours to support special ...

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Artifact Conservation information

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$88K

How much do artifact conservation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for artifact conservation in the United States is $57,002.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,000.00 and $65,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

How to become an artifact conservator?

To become an artifact conservator, typically a bachelor's degree in archaeology, art history, chemistry, or a related field is required, followed by a master's degree in conservation or a specialized training 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 and demonstrate expertise in conservation techniques and materials.

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

To thrive in Artifact Conservation, you need a deep understanding of art history, chemistry, and materials science, often supported by a degree in conservation or related fields. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, digital documentation tools, and specialized conservation materials is typically required, along with recognized certifications from professional conservation organizations. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective collaboration skills are vital soft skills for success in this field. These competencies ensure precise restoration, preservation, and protection of culturally significant artifacts while working within interdisciplinary teams.

What is the highest paying conservation job?

In artifact conservation, senior roles such as Conservation Director or Head Conservator typically have the highest salaries, often exceeding $70,000 to $100,000 annually depending on experience, location, and institution. Advanced certifications, specialized skills, and leadership responsibilities contribute to higher compensation in this field.

What is an Artifact Conservation job?

An artifact conservation job involves preserving, restoring, and protecting cultural heritage objects, such as artworks, historical documents, and archaeological artifacts. Conservation professionals analyze materials, assess damage, and use specialized techniques to prevent deterioration. They may work in museums, archives, or research institutions, collaborating with curators and scientists. Their goal is to ensure that artifacts remain stable and accessible for future generations.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the field of artifact conservation, salaries typically do not reach $500,000 annually; most professionals earn significantly less. High-paying roles in related fields such as museum directors, senior curators, or specialized consultants may approach or exceed this level, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities. However, such compensation is uncommon and usually involves executive or highly specialized positions outside standard conservation roles.

What is the typical work environment and team structure for professionals in artifact conservation?

Artifact conservators usually work in museums, galleries, archives, or private conservation labs, often as part of a multidisciplinary team that may include curators, scientists, and collection managers. Daily responsibilities can involve careful examination, cleaning, restoration, and preservation of artifacts, as well as documenting their condition and treatment steps. Collaboration is common, especially when developing conservation strategies or handling large projects, and conservators may also assist in public education or exhibit planning. The work can involve both hands-on treatment and research, providing a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment for those passionate about cultural heritage.

More about Artifact Conservation jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Artifact Conservation jobs? The most popular types of Artifact Conservation jobs are:
What states have the most Artifact Conservation jobs? States with the most job openings for Artifact Conservation jobs include:
Infographic showing various Artifact Conservation job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 70% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 24% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,002 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

3D Objects Conservator - Full Time

Paisley Park

Chanhassen, MN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Are you passionate about cultural preservation and museum collections? Do you thrive in a dynamic museum environment where art, music, and fashion intersect? Paisley Park invites an experienced 3D Objects Conservator to join the Museum Collections team and play a vital role in preserving Prince Rogers Nelson's historical collection.

This full-time position offers the rare opportunity to care for and conserve a diverse collection of artifacts. As the 3D Objects Conservator, you will help ensure these remarkable objects continue to educate, inspire, and connect to guests who visit Paisley Park for future generations to come.

Responsibilities

  • Efficiently manage and maintain the 3D objects conservation work area, including developing and implementing conservation protocols, procedures, and best practices.
  • Assess, document, research, and provide treatments to a wide range of mixed media and three-dimensional collection objects, including awards, personal effects, framed artworks, performance props, and other culturally significant artifacts.
  • Develop and implement conservation strategies, treatment plans, and preventative conservation measures
  • Perform condition assessments, stabilization treatments, cleaning, repair, and preservation work to support the long-term care of the collection
  • Prepare detailed conservation reports, treatment records, condition assessments, collection rotation procedures, and inventory checks
  • Train and advise museum and collections staff on proper object handling, storage, packing, transportation, and conservation practices
  • Collaborate with collections staff on artifact care, display, and long-term preservation planning
  • Advise on sustainable preservation methods for both storage and exhibition environments
  • Monitor environmental conditions and recommend improvements to collections care, storage, and exhibition practices
  • Participate in exhibition planning, installation, deinstallation, and special projects
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

  • Master's degree in Conservation, Object Conservation, Preventive Conservation, or a related conservation specialty from a recognized conservation training program
  • Demonstrate knowledge of conservation theory, ethics, documentation standards, and preventive conservation practices
  • Experience assessing and treating mixed-media and three-dimensional objects composed of materials such as metals, wood, plastics, glass, ceramics, leather, textiles, paper components, painted surfaces, composites, and material combinations
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively across departments
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation

Knowledge of Prince, his artistic legacy, or his impact on music, fashion, and culture is welcome but not required

Schedule

Monday-Friday, 8:30AM - 5:00PM, with some weekends, evenings, holidays, and overtime required based on operational and event schedules. Mandatory staffing for Prince Celebration event in June.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to sit or stand for extended periods
  • Comfortable handling, moving, and working with collection materials and storage systems
  • Strong manual dexterity and attention to detail
  • Excellent vision or corrected vision
  • Ability to safely handle a variety of artifact types and materials
  • Ability to work on ladders or elevated platforms when installing exhibition materials
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds
  • Ability to transport exhibit materials, mounts, mannequins, and collection-related equipment between workspaces and exhibition areas

Why Join Paisley Park?

Paisley Park is a living celebration of Prince's artistry, innovation, and legacy. This is an opportunity to work with an extraordinary collection in a place where creativity, preservation, and storytelling come together every day.

  • Work with a globally recognized collection
  • Contribute to the preservation of an internationally significant cultural legacy
  • Collaborate with passionate museum, collections, and exhibition professionals
  • Enjoy a dynamic environment where creativity and history intersect every day

Comprehensive Benefits Package Includes

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Pet insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Complimentary tour tickets
  • Employee discounts

Note: As Prince was a pescatarian, Paisley Park is a pescatarian food environment. Eggs, fish, and cheese are permitted on-site. Other meats may be consumed off-site or in personal vehicles.

Location: Chanhassen, Minnesota Position Type: Full-Time