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Conservator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Caregiver (CLI) (Napa)

Napa, CA ยท On-site

$16.90/hr

The conservator manages the clients care, schedule, and meals. The ideal worker must follow specific rules and routines without question. You must also maintain a professional, calm attitude at all ...

The Coordinator will work closely with the chamber music programs in the Conservatory, Music Academy, and Community School of Performing Arts (CSPA), assisting the Professor of Chamber Music in the ...

Caregiver (CLI) (Napa)

Napa, CA ยท On-site

$16.90/hr

The conservator manages the clients care, schedule, and meals. The ideal worker must follow specific rules and routines without question. You must also maintain a professional, calm attitude at all ...

The Coordinator will work closely with the chamber music programs in the Conservatory, Music Academy, and Community School of Performing Arts (CSPA), assisting the Professor of Chamber Music in the ...

Legal Assistant / Paralegal

Encino, CA ยท On-site

$23 - $45/hr

Responsibilities * Assist attorneys with court-based probate and conservatorship matters * Prepare, draft, and organize legal documents and pleadings * Handle discovery-related tasks and document ...

Showing results 21-40

Conservator information

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 typically work in museums, archives, or environmental agencies, using specialized skills, tools, and scientific methods to stabilize and restore items or environments. These roles often require relevant education, certifications, and attention to detail.

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.

Is it hard to get a job in conservation?

Getting a job as a conservator can be competitive, often requiring specialized education such as a master's degree in conservation or a related field, along with practical experience. Job availability may vary depending on the region, funding, and institutional needs, but strong skills in preservation techniques and familiarity with conservation tools improve employment prospects.

How hard is it to become an art conservator?

Becoming an art conservator typically requires a bachelor's degree in art conservation, archaeology, or a related field, followed by a master's degree in conservation from an accredited program. The process involves gaining practical experience through internships or apprenticeships and obtaining certifications, which can take several years of education and training. Strong attention to detail, knowledge of materials and techniques, and proficiency with specialized tools are essential for success in this field.

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.

What skills do you need to be a conservator?

A conservator needs strong attention to detail, knowledge of preservation techniques, and proficiency with specialized tools and materials. They should have good manual dexterity, problem-solving skills, and often hold relevant certifications or degrees in conservation, art history, or related fields. Effective communication and the ability to work carefully with delicate objects are also essential.
What are the most commonly searched types of Conservator jobs in California? The most popular types of Conservator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Conservator jobs in California? For Conservator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Conservator jobs? Cities in California with the most Conservator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Conservator jobs in CA? For Conservator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Conservator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Part-time Collegiate Faculty: Introduction to Global Civilizations

SAN FRANCISCO CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC

San Francisco, CA โ€ข On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Description:

Position title: Part-time collegiate faculty

Supervisor: Chair of Humanities and Sciences Department

Start - end date: January 25, 2027 - May 7, 2027

Objective: Responsible for teaching two sections of HMS 203: Introduction to Global Civilizations, a required class for all undergraduate degrees at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.

Work hours: Part-time, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9-10:20am and 10:30-11:50am (subject to change) for 14 weeks.


Job duties:

The San Francisco Conservatory of Music invites applicants to teach Introduction to Global Civilizations - a semester-long history survey covering major civilizations, events, and movements from ancient to modern times.


How to Apply:

Please apply through our website. For full consideration, upload the following:

  • Curriculum vitae (under "Select Resume to Upload" in the application system)
  • Letter of application (under "Upload Cover Letter"); In your cover letter, please include:
    • Your vision for the content, structure, assessments, and learning outcomes for this course, which is typically taken by freshmen and sophomores.
    • A brief paragraph describing how you would teach an 80-minute class on the Enlightenment to freshmen conservatory students.
  • Names and contact information of three professional references (under "References").

Applications will be reviewed after July 15th.

Questions about the application process can be directed to Michael Patterson (mpatterson - at - sfcm [.] edu); questions about the position can be directed to Chair Katherine Isokawa (kisokawa - at - sfcm [.] edu).

Requirements:
  • Candidates should have completed an advanced degree in history or a related field, or hold ABD status with degree completion guaranteed by August 1, 2026.
  • Candidates should have demonstrated excellence in teaching at the college level.