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Library Conservation Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cornell University

EGCF Technician

Ithaca, NY · On-site

$18.75 - $25/hr

Its partners include many divisions of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation ... This role will involve preparing sequencing libraries, performing PCR and qPCR assays, maintaining ...

METRO | 599

Work with Digital Technician to oversee digitization of selected archival materials after ... Collaborate with NYBG conservators to determine conservation needs for the organizational records.

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How much do library conservation technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for library conservation technician in the United States is $20.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a library conservation technician?

Library Conservation Technicians are professionals who help preserve and repair books, manuscripts, and other library materials. They work alongside conservators to assess the condition of items, perform conservation treatments, and ensure the longevity of collections. Their duties often include cleaning, mending, and rehousing materials, as well as documenting their work. These technicians play a crucial role in maintaining access to historical and valuable resources for future generations.

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

To thrive as a Library Conservation Technician, you need a solid understanding of preservation techniques, knowledge of book and paper materials, and often an associate's or bachelor's degree in conservation, library science, or a related field. Familiarity with conservation tools, digital cataloging systems, and proper handling equipment is typically required, alongside any specialized training or certification in conservation. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure the long-term preservation, accurate documentation, and safe handling of valuable library materials.

What are some common challenges faced by library conservation technicians when handling historical or fragile materials?

Library Conservation Technicians often encounter challenges such as handling extremely delicate or deteriorating materials, which require specialized techniques and tools to prevent further damage. Balancing the need for preservation with the goal of maintaining access for researchers can be demanding, as each item may require a unique approach. Additionally, technicians must stay updated on best practices and evolving conservation methods, while often working collaboratively with librarians, archivists, and curators to prioritize projects and ensure proper care of collections.

What is the difference between Library Conservation Technician vs Book Conservator?

AspectLibrary Conservation TechnicianBook Conservator
CredentialsTypically requires a conservation certificate or associate degree in conservation or related fieldUsually holds a master's degree in book conservation or a related specialization
Work EnvironmentLibraries, archives, museums, conservation labsSpecialized conservation studios, museums, archives
Job FocusAssisting with basic repairs, cleaning, and preventive carePerforming detailed, delicate repairs and full conservation treatments
Industry UsageCommonly employed in library and archival settingsPrimarily in conservation labs and specialized institutions

While both roles involve preserving books, Library Conservation Technicians focus on basic maintenance and preventive care, often supporting conservators. Book Conservators perform more advanced, detailed repairs and restorations, requiring higher-level training. Both roles are essential in preserving library collections but differ in scope and expertise.

What cities are hiring for Library Conservation Technician jobs?

Cities with the most Library Conservation Technician job openings:

What states have the most Library Conservation Technician jobs?

States with the most job openings for Library Conservation Technician jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Library Conservation Technician jobs?

For Library Conservation Technician jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Library Conservation Technician job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,143 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Assistant Conservator of Paper

Williamsburg, VA • On-site

Colonial Williamsburg
Scientific Research and Development Services • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Colonial Williamsburgexternal

$19.47 - $29.28/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Colonial Williamsburg rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Who We Are
Founded in 1926, the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation is a private, not-for-profit educational, historic, and cultural institution that owns and operates one of the largest and best-known museum complexes in the world. Our mission is "that the future may learn from the past" through preserving and restoring 18th-century Williamsburg, Virginia's colonial capital. We engage, inform, and inspire people to learn about this historic capital, the events that occurred here, and the diverse peoples who helped shape a new nation.
Today, Colonial Williamsburg is the largest living history museum in the U.S. The Historic Area is the 301-acre restored colonial capital with 88 original buildings and 525 buildings reconstructed to how they appeared in the 18th century through extensive archaeological, architectural, and documentary research. The Historic Area is staffed by highly trained, historically dressed interpreters and expert tradespeople who bring the 18th century to life. The Foundation also owns and operates two world-class museums, the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum, and the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum, The Bob and Marion Wilson Teacher Institute, and a renowned research library, the John D Rockefeller Jr Library.
Additionally, Colonial Williamsburg is home to five world class accommodations at the Williamsburg Inn, Williamsburg Lodge Autograph Collection, the Griffin Hotel, the Williamsburg Woodlands Hotels and Suites and the unique Colonial Houses in the Historical Area. Visitors may also indulge in food and drink at our many on site restaurants and taverns that blend a historically inspired dining experience with today's evolved tastes. Each year over 5 million people visit Williamsburg and another 20 million engage with us digitally.
About the Position
The Assistant Conservator of Paper is responsible for enhancing the protection and preservation of Colonial Williamsburg's cultural assets by, in consultation with the specialist curators and Associate Conservator, Paper, examining paper objects from the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation's collection, designing, and proposing treatment protocols, and carrying out conservation treatments. The Assistant Conservator carries out condition assessments and treatments in accordance with research and exhibition objectives.
***Must reside in or be ready to relocate to Virginia***
Essential Functions:
  1. Performs treatments on the Foundation's various paper collection objects using recognized conservation techniques in compliance with the Code of Ethics of the American Institute for Conservation and in consultation with curatorial staff. Examines objects, prepares written treatment proposals, performs treatments, and prepares treatment reports complete with photo-documentation. Confers with supervisor, conservation staff, and curators on complex projects. Collaborates with other conservators to treat or advise on care of paper objects as needed.
  2. Conducts conservation assessments of the Foundation's various paper collections.
  3. Establishes and documents preservation state and condition of paper objects as requested; including those being considered for accession, deaccession, exhibition and loan.
  4. Assists in management of day-to-day operation of paper lab including ordering supplies and materials, handling paperwork, inputting treatment information in the collections database, and maintaining lab space and equipment.
  5. Assists in the supervision and training of technicians, interns, and volunteers in the paper lab.
  6. Maintains awareness of state-of-the-art techniques in the conservation field.
  7. Carries out research and related analysis to support treatment projects, test new materials, applications, or methodologies as other responsibilities allow.
  8. Fabricates storage systems, exhibition supports, and packs/moves objects as needed.
  9. Prepares and delivers public and professional lectures and demonstrations on conservation theory and techniques. Publishes new research in book or article form as other responsibilities allow. Contributes to and/or leads public tours. Contributes to social media efforts.
  10. Performs other related duties as required.

Required and Preferred Education and Experience:
Required:
  1. Graduate degree in conservation plus two years conservation experience in recognized institutions - or the equivalent technical education and experience.
  2. Demonstrable history of proposed, completed, and documented treatments.

Preferred:
  1. Supervisory and administrative experience.
  2. Familiarity with workplace safety practices.
  3. Membership in a professional conservation organization.

Qualifications:
  1. Detailed knowledge of traditional decorative, fine, and folk art as well as library special collection and corporate archive materials and techniques with a focus on paper artifacts.
  2. Highly developed hand skills.
  3. Detailed knowledge of conservation materials and experience in applying state-of-the-art conservation methodologies.
  4. Knowledge of the environment and environmental/materials interactions.
  5. Scientific knowledge sufficient for undertaking in-depth examination and analysis of objects, performing treatments and following necessary literature and reports.
  6. Excellent communication skills, both oral and written. Ability to follow instructions orally and in writing.
  7. Shares workspace respectfully with others, can work independently and with a team. Able to plan and schedule time.

This is a non-exempt position, eligible to receive overtime in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This position may be subject to overtime during high peak times, etc. as directed and approved by the supervisor.
Compensation Disclaimer: The compensation listed below for this position represents the anticipated hiring range and is provided in accordance with Virginia pay transparency requirements. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as the selected candidate's skills, qualifications, experience, education, certifications, internal equity, and the specific requirements of the role.
Range: $19.47 to $29.28
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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