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Conservator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Conservator Posting Number req26343 Department Arizona State Museum Department Website Link Location Tucson Campus Address Tucson, AZ USA Position Highlights Arizona State Museum (ASM) at ...

Teaching Artist

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$22 - $32/hr

Teaching ArtistOrganization: Phoenix Conservatory of MusicPosition Summary:The Teaching Artist will play a vital role in providing high-quality music education to students of all ages and backgrounds.

Benefits Supervisor

Phoenix, AZ · Hybrid

$23 - $37.50/hr

The Office of the Public Fiduciary manages cases involving guardianship, conservatorship, and decedent estates. As the Benefits Supervisor, you will lead the coordination of government and community ...

Cello Tutor

Tempe, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain tone production, bow distribution, position work, and musical phrasing while preparing students for orchestra auditions, solo recitals, and conservatory entrance. * Conceptual ...

Violin Tutor

Mesa, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain tone production, bow distribution, and advanced techniques while preparing students for orchestra auditions, solo performance, and conservatory entrance. * Conceptual Teaching ...

Cello Tutor

Tucson, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain tone production, bow distribution, position work, and musical phrasing while preparing students for orchestra auditions, solo recitals, and conservatory entrance. * Conceptual ...

Cello Tutor

Scottsdale, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain tone production, bow distribution, position work, and musical phrasing while preparing students for orchestra auditions, solo recitals, and conservatory entrance. * Conceptual ...

Violin Tutor

Tucson, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain tone production, bow distribution, and advanced techniques while preparing students for orchestra auditions, solo performance, and conservatory entrance. * Conceptual Teaching ...

Cello Tutor

Gilbert, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain tone production, bow distribution, position work, and musical phrasing while preparing students for orchestra auditions, solo recitals, and conservatory entrance. * Conceptual ...

Music Theory Tutor

Tempe, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain Roman numeral analysis, voice leading rules, four-part chorale writing, and formal structures while preparing students for AP Music Theory, college music courses, and conservatory ...

Music Theory Tutor

Chandler, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain Roman numeral analysis, voice leading rules, four-part chorale writing, and formal structures while preparing students for AP Music Theory, college music courses, and conservatory ...

Music Theory Tutor

Scottsdale, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain Roman numeral analysis, voice leading rules, four-part chorale writing, and formal structures while preparing students for AP Music Theory, college music courses, and conservatory ...

Music Theory Tutor

Glendale, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain Roman numeral analysis, voice leading rules, four-part chorale writing, and formal structures while preparing students for AP Music Theory, college music courses, and conservatory ...

Violin Tutor

Phoenix, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain tone production, bow distribution, and advanced techniques while preparing students for orchestra auditions, solo performance, and conservatory entrance. * Conceptual Teaching ...

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Showing results 1-20

Conservator information

See Arizona salary details

$20.4K

$55.5K

$95.1K

How much do conservator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservator in Arizona is $55,496.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,689.00 and $66,019.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a conservator do?

A conservator is a professional responsible for preserving and restoring cultural heritage items, such as artworks, historical objects, documents, and artifacts. Their work involves analyzing the condition of items, using specialized techniques to prevent deterioration, and repairing damage caused by age, environmental factors, or previous restorations. Conservators often work in museums, libraries, archives, or private practice, and collaborate closely with curators and other specialists to ensure the long-term care of valuable collections.

What is the difference between Conservator vs Restorer?

AspectConservatorRestorer
CredentialsTypically requires a conservation degree and specialized trainingOften requires restoration training, sometimes with a focus on specific materials
Work EnvironmentMuseums, galleries, cultural institutionsRestoration workshops, private studios, cultural institutions
Industry UsageUsed in museums, archives, and cultural heritage sectorsCommon in art, antique, and artifact restoration

Conservators focus on preserving and stabilizing cultural heritage objects to prevent deterioration, often working in museums and archives. Restorers typically repair and restore damaged artworks or artifacts to their original appearance, often in dedicated workshops. While both roles require specialized skills and knowledge, conservators emphasize preservation, whereas restorers focus on aesthetic repair.

What are careers in conservation?

Careers in conservation involve protecting and preserving cultural, historical, or natural resources, such as artworks, artifacts, or ecosystems. Conservators assess damage, perform treatments, and use specialized tools and techniques, often requiring knowledge of chemistry, art history, or environmental science, along with relevant certifications. These roles typically require attention to detail, patience, and adherence to ethical standards, with work environments including museums, archives, or conservation laboratories.

How does a Conservator typically collaborate with other museum staff during a restoration project?

Conservators work closely with curators, registrars, and exhibition designers throughout restoration projects. They consult with curators to understand the historical and cultural context of the objects, and coordinate with registrars to ensure proper documentation and care. Regular communication with exhibition designers is essential to ensure that restored items are displayed safely and effectively. This collaborative approach helps maintain the integrity and accessibility of collections while meeting both conservation and exhibition goals.

What jobs can you do in conservation?

Conservators work to preserve and restore cultural, historical, or artistic objects, often in museums, archives, or conservation labs. They perform tasks such as cleaning, repairing, and stabilizing artifacts using specialized techniques and tools, and may require knowledge of materials science and conservation ethics.

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

To thrive as a Conservator, you need a solid background in chemistry, fine arts, art history, and conservation techniques, typically supported by a relevant degree or specialized training. Familiarity with scientific analysis tools, documentation software, and materials testing equipment is often required, along with certifications from professional bodies like the American Institute for Conservation (AIC). Attention to detail, problem-solving, patience, and strong communication skills help Conservators excel in preserving and restoring valuable artifacts. These competencies ensure the accurate, ethical, and lasting preservation of cultural heritage for future generations.

What Is a Conservator?

A conservator works to preserve cultural property so that it will remain for future generations. This role is sometimes referred to as a restorer. These individuals spend their time examining and documenting conservation pieces. Other responsibilities include performing an analysis to determine restorative treatment and doing preventative care. Conservators will generally specialize in specific areas, such as the restoration of paintings, rare books, sculptures, or archeological finds. They often attend graduate school and have advanced training in art history, physical sciences, or studio artistry.

How much do art conservators make a year?

Art conservators typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, with salaries increasing with experience, specialization, and geographic location. Senior conservators or those working in major institutions can earn over $100,000 per year. Certification and advanced skills in conservation techniques can also impact salary levels.

What is the highest paying conservation job?

The highest paying conservation jobs are often senior roles such as Conservation Director or Chief Conservator, typically found in large museums, cultural institutions, or private collections. These positions require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in specialized conservation techniques, and they can offer salaries exceeding $80,000 annually.
What are the most commonly searched types of Conservator jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Conservator jobs in Arizona are:
What are popular job titles related to Conservator jobs in Arizona? For Conservator jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Conservator jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Conservator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Conservator jobs in AZ? For Conservator jobs in AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Conservator job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $55,496 per year, or $26.7 per hour.
Assistant Conservator

Assistant Conservator

University of Arizona

Tucson, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


University Of Arizona rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

384th of 612 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Assistant Conservator
Posting Number
req26343
Department
Arizona State Museum
Department Website Link
https://statemuseum.arizona.edu/
Location
Tucson Campus
Address
Tucson, AZ USA
Position Highlights
Arizona State Museum (ASM) at the University of Arizona is seeking an Assistant Conservator. The Assistant Conservator (Objects) is responsible for the physical care, examination, documentation, and treatment of the museum's diverse collections which include archaeological artifacts, ethnographic materials, historical items, sculpture, ceramics, textiles, plant-based material, metals, and mixed-media contemporary art. The successful candidate will have a background in the conservation of objects with a strong commitment to ethical preservation practices. A significant component of this role involves collaborating with collections managers, curators, and source or Indigenous communities to ensure that conservation practices align with cultural protocols and modern legislative frameworks (e.g., NAGPRA/Duty of Care guidelines).
ASM is the oldest and largest anthropological research facility in the U.S. Southwest, with expansive collections that are exceptional resources for the teaching, study, and understanding of the region's 13,000-year human history.
Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!
The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.
Duties & Responsibilities
Conservation Examination, Analysis, Documentation, and Treatment:
  • Perform examinations and produce written and photographic documentation, including condition reports, treatment proposals, and final treatment reports using museum records and databases.
  • Conduct scientific analysis and imaging (UV/IR, pXRF, FTIR, X-ray) to assess material composition and condition.
  • In collaboration with supervisor, curatorial personnel, and stakeholders, collaborate on the design and execution of treatments for objects.
  • Contribute to the development of conservation methods and remain current with field advances.
  • Collaborate with supervisor and curatorial staff to establish treatment priorities.
  • Conduct work in accordance with the American Institute for Conservation (AIC) Code of Ethics and Guidelines of Practice.

Preventive Conservation:
  • Perform preventive conservation activities to ensure the long-term preservation and accessibility of collections.
  • Assist with environmental monitoring and integrated pest management data collection and interpretation.
  • Collaboriate with collections and exhibition personnel.to design and fabricate archival enclosures, storage supports, and custom display mounts.
  • Conduct routine collection surveys and housekeeping activities to identify and mitigate potential risks to museum collections.
  • Support emergency preparedness activities for collections, including contributing to emergency planning, participating in preparedness training, and inventorying, maintaining, and purchasing supplies for emergency response and recovery.

Exhibitions and Loans:
  • Assess the condition of objects selected for loans and exhibitions.
  • Prepare collection objects for loan, exhibition, and transport, working closely with the Registrar to ensure compliance with museum standards, loan agreements, and established project deadlines.
  • Apply established handling protocols, specialized microclimates, and transit packing methods to support the safe movement and display of objects.
  • Collaborate with exhibition personnel on the preparation, installation, and deinstallation of collection objects for exhibit.
  • Serve as domestic courier for objects.

Lab Coordination & Public Outreach:
  • Support coordination of conservation lab activities and projects.
  • Manage and facilitate access for researchers and conservation lab visitors.
  • Oversight of conservation volunteers and students.
  • Assist with coordinating and tracking the movement of objects in and out of the conservation laboratory.
  • Participate in public outreach programs including tours, workshops, and other educational programs.

Lab Safety:
  • Assist with conservation laboratory operations including ensuring compliance with federal, state, local, and University of Arizona regulations and policies regarding hazardous chemicals and radiation machines.
  • Maintain adherence to laboratory safety protocols and lab cleanliness.
  • Inventory, research and recommend laboratory supplies and equipment to support conservation activities.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Working knowledge and experience in object conservation.
  • Demonstrated manual dexterity skills.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to work with hazardous materials.
  • Ability to work in a highly collaborative environment, one that values and leverages the benefits of a variety of perspectives.
  • Knowledge of the responsibilities and cultural sensitivities involved in working with cultural materials.
  • Knowledge of and experience with hazardous chemicals and safety requirements and standards in conservation laboratories.
  • Knowledge with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA).
  • Ability to operate and knowledge of technical, analytical, and imaging equipment.
  • Proficiency with various computer programs (Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Cloud).

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent advanced learning attained through professional level experience.
  • 3 years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Conservation or related field.
  • Experience working with anthropological collections or composite materials in a museum setting.

FLSA
Exempt
Full Time/Part Time
Full Time
Number of Hours Worked per Week
40
Job FTE
1.0
Work Calendar
Fiscal
Job Category
Cultural Institutions
Benefits Eligible
Yes - Full Benefits
Rate of Pay
$42,282 - $52,851
Compensation Type
salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)
Grade
5
Compensation Guidance
The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity.
The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator.
Career Stream and Level
PC2
Job Family
Conservator
Job Function
Cultural Institutions
Type of criminal background check required:
Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)
Number of Vacancies
1
Target Hire Date
Expected End Date
Contact Information for Candidates
Jim Watson watsonjt@arizona.edu
Open Date
6/24/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes
Documents Needed to Apply
Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Cover Letter
Special Instructions to Applicant
Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report
In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University's campuses.Thesereports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures.
Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu.

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