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Conservator Restorer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MUSEUM ASSOCIATES

Project Conservator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Project Conservator, Paintings (Regular, Part- Time) Conservation Center Reporting to the Senior ... Develops and implements conservation treatments and restoration procedures. * Uses conservation ...

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How much do conservator restorer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservator restorer in the United States is $71,376.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $89,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Conservator Restorers face when working with historic artifacts?

Conservator Restorers often encounter challenges such as dealing with fragile or deteriorated materials, limited documentation about an artifact's past restorations, and the need to balance preservation with maintaining the object's original appearance. They must also carefully select appropriate conservation methods and materials to ensure long-term stability, often working within tight budgets or time constraints. Collaboration with curators, scientists, and other specialists is essential to develop the best conservation strategies while honoring ethical guidelines.

What does a Conservator Restorer do?

A Conservator Restorer is a professional who preserves, repairs, and restores artworks, artifacts, and historical objects. Their work involves stabilizing items to prevent further deterioration and meticulously restoring them to their original or near-original condition. Conservator Restorers use scientific analysis, specialized tools, and a deep understanding of materials and art history to ensure that cultural heritage is maintained for future generations. They often work with museums, galleries, archives, and private collectors.

What is the highest paying conservation job?

The highest paying conservation jobs are often senior roles such as Conservation Director or Chief Conservator, which require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership skills. These positions typically offer higher salaries due to their responsibility level and specialized expertise in managing large projects or collections, often in museums, cultural institutions, or private firms.

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

To thrive as a Conservator Restorer, you need a strong background in art history, chemistry, materials science, and a relevant degree in conservation or restoration. Familiarity with analytical tools like microscopes, spectrometers, and documentation software, as well as certifications from recognized conservation organizations, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, patience, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the preservation and restoration of cultural heritage objects with accuracy, ethical care, and collaboration with other professionals.

How do you become a conservator restorer?

To become a conservator restorer, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in art conservation, archaeology, or a related field, followed by specialized training or a master's degree in conservation. 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 credibility in the field.

How much do art conservators make a year?

Art conservators, including conservator restorers, typically earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. Senior professionals with specialized skills or working in private practice can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $80,000 annually.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can reach $2,000 a day often include specialized roles such as senior conservator restorers, expert appraisers, or consultants in art and cultural heritage fields. These positions typically require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive experience, and may involve freelance or contract work with high hourly rates. Such roles are less common and usually found in niche markets or with high-profile clients.
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Infographic showing various Conservator Restorer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 72% Physical, 14% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,376 per year, or $34.3 per hour.

Project Conservator

MUSEUM ASSOCIATES

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$65/hr

Part-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Project Conservator, Paintings (Regular, Part- Time)

Conservation Center

Reporting to the Senior Conservator, Paintings the Project Conservator, Paintings will be responsible for the conservation and restoration of paintings within the museum’s collection. This role involves planning and executing conservation projects, conducting condition assessments, and collaborating with curators and other museum staff to ensure the preservation of artworks. The Project Conservator will also contribute to research, documentation, and public outreach initiatives related to conservation. The Project Conservator is brought in as needed, to take on available conservation projects.

Responsibilities:

  • Conducts thorough condition assessments of paintings in the collection.

  • Develops and implements conservation treatments and restoration procedures.

  • Uses conservation techniques to stabilize and preserve artworks, including cleaning, repairing, and re-framing as needed.

  • Documents conservation treatments and creates detailed reports on the condition and treatment of artworks.

  • Manages conservation projects from inception to completion, ensuring that work is completed within scope, time, and budget constraints.

  • Collaborates with curators, researchers, and other museum staff to coordinate conservation efforts and address specific project needs.

  • Prioritizes and schedules conservation tasks based on the needs of the collection and project requirements.

  • Conducts research on the materials, techniques, and historical context of paintings to inform conservation strategies.

  • Maintains comprehensive records of conservation treatments, including photographic documentation and written reports.

  • Contributes to scholarly publications, exhibition catalogues, and other materials related to conservation.

  • Assists in developing educational programs and materials related to conservation for museum visitors.

  • Participates in public lectures, workshops, and tours to raise awareness about the importance of art conservation.

  • Engages with stakeholders and provides expertise on conservation-related inquiries.

  • Works collaboratively with other conservators, museum staff, and external experts to advance conservation goals.

  • Stays informed about current conservation practices, research, and emerging technologies through continuous professional development.

Benefits

  • The expected hourly rate for this Los Angeles, CA based position is $65.00 subject to change.

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 conservation, including hands-on treatment and project management.

  • Proficiency in conservation techniques and materials specific to paintings.

  • Familiarity with current conservation practices, ethical guidelines, and research


This position is represented by AFSCME District Council 36 and the terms and conditions of the role are subject to what may be negotiated with the union.