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Conservation Assistant Jobs in Ontario (NOW HIRING)

POSITION SUMMARY Assist the County Archivist in the development and maintenance of archival ... conservation and preservation, accessioning, arrangement and description, database management ...

... conservation et la destruction des dossiers et du matériel de formation. Vos responsabilités comprendront également l'initiation en ligne, les vérifications en ligne lorsque requis, ainsi que le ...

... Conservation, and other compliance-related programs. * Assist with Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) processes, including claims management, return-to-work coordination, and loss prevention ...

Maintain facility appearance and functionality through general upkeep and repair activities * Assist in the implementation of waste reduction, recycling, energy conservation, and water conservation ...

CA$23.14 - CA$31.51/hr

Maintain facility appearance and functionality through general upkeep and repair activities * Assist in the implementation of waste reduction, recycling, energy conservation, and water conservation ...

The AGO has retained Isaacson, Miller, a national executive search firm, to assist in identifying ... Conservation. The Chief Curator sets, communicates, and promotes the overall plan with input from ...

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Conservation Assistant information

What is a conservation assistant?

Conservation Assistants are professionals who support the preservation and care of cultural heritage items such as artworks, historical documents, textiles, and artifacts. They typically work under the supervision of conservators in museums, galleries, libraries, or archives. Their responsibilities include handling and preparing objects for display or storage, assisting with conservation treatments, maintaining records, and ensuring safe environmental conditions for collections. Conservation Assistants play a vital role in protecting valuable items for future generations by helping to prevent deterioration and damage.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a conservation assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Conservation Assistant, you need knowledge of conservation techniques, environmental science, and often a relevant degree or experience in natural resource management. Familiarity with GIS software, data collection tools, and basic laboratory or field equipment is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse teams are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate data collection, effective support of conservation projects, and smooth collaboration with scientists and stakeholders.

What are some typical challenges conservation assistants face when working in the field or with collections?

Conservation Assistants often encounter challenges such as handling delicate artifacts or specimens, maintaining detailed documentation, and adhering to strict conservation protocols. In the field, environmental conditions or limited resources can make preservation efforts more complex. Additionally, they must collaborate closely with conservators, scientists, and other staff to ensure best practices are followed, which requires strong communication and adaptability. These challenges offer valuable learning opportunities and contribute to professional growth in the conservation field.

What is the difference between Conservation Assistant vs Environmental Technician?

AspectConservation AssistantEnvironmental Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certifications in conservation or environmental scienceHigh school diploma; often requires environmental technician certification or related training
Work EnvironmentOutdoor conservation sites, parks, wildlife reservesLaboratories, field sites, environmental monitoring locations
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government agencies, parks, conservation organizationsEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, research institutions

Both Conservation Assistants and Environmental Technicians work in environmental fields, often outdoors, but Conservation Assistants focus more on hands-on conservation activities, while Environmental Technicians tend to perform technical testing and data collection. The roles overlap in credentials and work environments, making them common comparison choices for those interested in environmental careers.

What are the most commonly searched types of Conservation jobs in Ontario?

The most popular types of Conservation jobs in Ontario are:

What cities in Ontario are hiring for Conservation Assistant jobs?

Cities in Ontario with the most Conservation Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Conservation Assistant job openings in Ontario as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Assistant Conservator, Paintings Conservation

Art Gallery of Ontario

Toronto, ON • On-site

CA$37.69 - CA$47.08/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

DescriptionRequisition Id: 2026-89
Job Status: Temporary Full-Time
Hours & Days of Work: 35 hours per week
Minimum Rate: $37.69
Maximum Rate: $47.08
Target Start Date: 09/14/2026
Target End Date: 03/05/2027

Assistant Conservator, Paintings

Temporary Full-Time

(35 hours per week)

ART + AUDIENCE + LEARNING

Located in Toronto, the Art Gallery of Ontario is one of the largest art museums in North America, attracting approximately one million visitors annually. The AGO Collection of more than 120,000 works of art ranges from cutting-edge contemporary art to significant works by Indigenous and Canadian artists and European masterpieces.

 

AGO Values:

  • Respect: We foster belonging and appreciate each other.
  • Openness: We interact with an open mind and thoughtful engagement.
  • Collaboration: We believe in the power of together.
  • Accountability: We own our actions and outcomes.

We are currently seeking a Temporary Full-time, Assistant Conservator, Paintings to join our Conservation team. Under the direction of the Head of Conservation, the incumbent will preserve works of art through conservation activities of prevention, restoration, investigation, consultation and education.

The rate of pay for this position is $37.69 - $47.08 per hour.

 

What is this position responsible for?

 

  • Performs treatments to prevent damage and retard deterioration and to improve or correct structural instability and aesthetic alterations.  Determines appropriate materials and techniques for conservation treatment of works of art.  Documents treatments photographically and in written form.
  • Examines works of art and completes condition reports for loan requests, incoming and outgoing loans, and exhibitions.
  • Assesses the physical condition and identifies materials and techniques of proposed acquisitions.  Advises Curator and Acquisitions Committee of preservation and/or treatment recommendations and conservation prognosis.
  • Monitors environmental conditions in galleries and storage areas to ensure that relative humidity, temperature and light are maintained at appropriate levels.

What are we looking for?

 

  • Master's degree from a recognized conservation training program with specialization in paintings conservation.
  • A numbers of years directly related experience, with a focus on treatment conservation of paintings.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of conservation standards, practices and procedures.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of the materials and techniques, the aesthetic and historical significance of works of art.
  • Manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination, excellent colour discrimination.
  • Well developed interpersonal and communication skills.

What are the benefits of working at the AGO?

  • Discounts to GoodLife Fitness.
  • Free tickets to every major exhibit at AGO.
  • Discounts to major attractions as a part of the Provincial/City Reciprocal Programs.
  • Free admission to the AGO for friends and family, discounts at the gift shop, bistro, and Learning Centre.

If this sounds like the opportunity you are looking for, apply now!

Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility:

At the AGO, we lead global conversations from Toronto through extraordinary collections, exhibitions, and programs, reflecting the diverse community we serve. Committed to fostering inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility, we embed these values into our strategic plan and ongoing priorities.

To Apply:

Please submit your resume and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and qualifications online at https://jobs.jobvite.com/ago/jobs/viewall. We thank all applicants for their interest in the position; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Our Applicant Tracking System (ATS) uses AI features to support efficiency and consistency, but all hiring decisions are made by our managers and HR team.

The Art Gallery of Ontario is an Equal Opportunity Employer.