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Conservation Assistant Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

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Conservation Assistant information

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 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Assistants are professionals who support the preservation and care of cultural heritage items such as artworks, historical documents, textiles, and artifacts.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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Conservation jobs in Boston, MA? The most popular types of Conservation jobs in Boston, MA are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Conservation Assistant jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Conservation Assistant job openings:
Conservation Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Conservation Assistant job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Temporary. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Mellon Fellow, Advanced Training, Furniture & Frame Conservation

Museum of Fine Arts

Boston, MA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston seeks applicants for the Andrew W. Mellon Fellowship for Advanced Training in Furniture and Frame Conservation. This one-year appointment begins in the fall of 2026.

The Furniture and Frame Conservation Lab within the department of Conservation and Scientific Research is responsible for the preventative care, documentation, treatment, and display of furniture, frames, and other wooden artifacts. The lab works with a diverse collection of wooden and related artifacts from across five curatorial departments (Art of the Americas, Art of Europe, Art of Asia, Musical Instruments, and Contemporary Art), as well as 5,000 paintings frames.

The Mellon Fellow will have the opportunity to examine, study, and treat furniture, frames, and related wooden objects from a comprehensive collection of American, Asian, and European artworks from the 16th to 21st centuries, as well as wooden musical instruments. The Fellow will also participate in a wide range of conservation activities with conservators, conservation scientists, collections care specialists, and curators. Research and technical examination of objects in the collection will be encouraged, and the Fellow is expected to carry out a publishable research project. Conservation and Scientific Research at the MFA is a public-facing department that embraces opportunities to engage with visitors, and the Fellow will be encouraged to contribute to community engagement activities.

The department welcomes international candidates to apply and will assist in the visa application process if needed.


Qualifications:

• Applicants must have a graduate degree in conservation from a recognized program or have equivalent work experience

• Excellent written, photo documentation, and communication skills

• Ability to work collaboratively and excel as part of a team and in a rapidly-paced and changeable environment


Salary Range:

Full-Time Salary, 35 hours per week

Salary: $53,615.76

This position is affiliated with the United Auto Workers Union.


Application materials must be received by August 3, 2026. For consideration, please submit letter of interest and résumé using the online portal. Additionally, two letters of recommendation must be sent to conservation@mfa.org, by the respective authors and indicating clearly the applicant’s name and Mellon Fellowship position.


The MFA is an equal opportunity employer. The community and audience we serve is diverse, and we wish to foster that diversity in our workplace. Toward that end, the MFA does not discriminate against individuals in hiring, employment or promotion on the basis of race, religion, color, sex/gender, gender identity and gender expression, age, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, citizenship, handicap or disability, veteran or military status, political belief, pregnancy, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by law.

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