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Conservator Jobs in Maine (NOW HIRING)

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Conservator information

See Maine salary details

$19.6K

$53.3K

$91.4K

How much do conservator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservator in Maine is $53,313.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,970.00 and $63,422.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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 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.

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, institution, and specific area of conservation, but strong skills in preservation techniques and familiarity with conservation tools improve employment prospects.

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, training, and certifications, and may involve detailed analysis and careful handling of sensitive materials.

What skills do you need to be a conservator?

A conservator needs strong attention to detail, knowledge of preservation techniques, and skills in scientific analysis and manual craftsmanship. Familiarity with conservation tools, materials, and relevant certifications are also important for assessing and restoring artifacts or artworks effectively.
More about Conservator jobs

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What job categories do people searching Conservator jobs in Maine look for?

The top searched job categories for Conservator jobs in Maine are:

What are popular job titles related to Conservator jobs in ME?

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Conservator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Conservator job openings in Maine as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,313 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Pre-College Coordinator, Osher School of Music (OSOM)

Maine's Public Universities

Portland, ME • On-site

$48K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description


The Osher School of Music at the University of Southern Maine is currently seeking a qualified individual to fill the position of Pre-College Activities Coordinator.
The Osher School of Music offers a personalized and opportunity-based approach to educating musicians, featuring a faculty of distinguished performers, teachers, scholars, and mentors. Our alumni are in positions of music leadership throughout the country. In addition to becoming top-rated professors and music teachers throughout the region, many have gone on to sing at world-renowned institutions such as the New York Metropolitan Opera (the Met) and the Lyric Opera of Chicago and become Grammy winners in the instrumentalist category. Many have also attended graduate school at major universities and conservatories, including Yale University, New York University, and the New England Conservatory of Music.
The successful candidate for this position will be responsible for recruiting students to the Osher School of Music degree programs, oversee auditions for degree programs, and communicate with prospective students and families about audition and admission procedures. The Coordinator will maintain data on student successes and scholarship decisions, along with overseeing retention events. Additionally, the Coordinator will oversee all aspects of the administration for the Osher Youth Ensembles, primarily with enrollment, parent communications, and weekly rehearsals. During the summer months, the Coordinator will recruit students for the Osher School of Music Youth Ensembles and Summer Camps, coordinate summer camp logistics with OSOM Summer Camps Staff, and assist with auditions, budget tracking, and payroll.
Pay and Benefits
This is a full-time, in-person position based on our Portland Campus. This position offers an annual salary of $48,645.00.
The University of Southern Maine offers highly competitive benefits for full-time and eligible part-time employees that includes (but is not limited to):
  • 13 paid holidays plus earned vacation time and sick time.
  • Health, dental and vision insurance.
  • Short-term and long-term disability insurance.
  • Basic life insurance and supplemental life insurance.
  • A tuition waiver program for employees and their spouse or dependent child(ren).
  • A 403(b)-retirement plan.
  • Free access to the METRO system, including the Husky Line with service between our Portland and Gorham campuses.

See the Benefits Information Summary for details.
About the University of Southern Maine
The University of Southern Maine is a vibrant academic community located in the greater Portland, Maine area, including campuses in Portland, Gorham, Lewiston, and online. USM is part of the University of Maine System and offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing hands-on learning, community engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With a highly engaged student-centered learning environment, USM is a steward of higher education, helping drive the economic, cultural, and civic life in the communities where our campuses are located and beyond. USM is committed to providing expanded access to high-quality education that elevates economic opportunity and contributes significantly to the vitality of a diverse society. To learn more about USM, visit About Our University.
The University of Southern Maine fosters a welcoming and supportive campus environment that respects and appreciates varied perspectives, enhancing teaching, learning, personal growth, and overall institutional achievement. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds who share our dedication to academic excellence and the enrichment of our community.
We are dedicated to our Service Promise, Student Focused Every Day and seek a team member who embraces this commitment and upholds our core values of Respect & Care, Integrity, Equity, and Responsiveness.
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree.
  • Experience with recruitment or sales.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Bachelors degree or higher in Music
  • Experience with music in higher education

To apply, click on the 'Apply Now' button below or visit our USM Careers Page and submit the following:
  • Cover letter
  • Resume/Curriculum Vitae
  • Finalist candidates will be asked to provide a list of names and contact information for three references.

For full consideration please submit all required materials by September 13, 2026.
We are not able to consider applicants who require Visa sponsorship support.
Appropriate background screening will be conducted for the successful candidate.
The University of Maine System (the System) is an equal opportunity institution committed to fostering a nondiscriminatory environment and complying with all applicable nondiscrimination laws. Consistent with State and Federal law, the System does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, familial status, ancestry, age, disability (physical or mental), genetic information, pregnancy, or veteran or military status in any aspect of its education, programs and activities, and employment. The System provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. If you believe you have experienced discrimination or harassment, you are encouraged to contact the System Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Services at 5713 Chadbourne Hall, Room 412, Orono, ME 04469-5713, by calling 207.581.1226, or via TTY at 711 (Maine Relay System). For more information about Title IX or to file a complaint, please contact the UMS Title IX Coordinator.
Clery Act:
The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, or Clery Act, mandates that all Title IV institutions, such as the University, prepare, publish, and distribute an Annual Security Report (ASR), and provide notice of the availability of the ASR to all prospective employees. This report consists of two basic parts: disclosure of the University's crime statistics for the past three calendar years; and disclosures regarding the University's current campus security policies. View the University's Annual Security Report (PDF). If you wish to have a paper copy of the ASR or need to have a copy of the ASR in an accessible format, the University will provide such a copy upon request. Please contact our Public Safety Office at 207.780.5211.

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