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Preventive Conservator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$110K - $115K/yr

The Head of Conservation and Preservation supervises four full-time conservators including a Preventive Conservator and three Book and Paper Conservators, one of whom is focused on exhibitions. This ...

$110K - $115K/yr

The Head of Conservation and Preservation supervises four full‑time conservators including a Preventive Conservator and three Book and Paper Conservators, one of whom is focused on exhibitions.

Conservatory Alden Bridge, a Discovery Senior Living community is growing, thriving and has ... Practice all safety and loss prevention procedures * Set-up and clean the Dining Room while ...

Dishwasher

The Woodlands, TX · On-site

$10.25 - $13.25/hr

Conservatory Alden Bridge , a Discovery Senior Living community is growing, thriving and has ... Practices all safety and loss prevention procedures. * Records and maintains documentation for the ...

Showing results 41-60

Preventive Conservator information

What is a preventive conservator?

Preventive conservators are professionals who focus on protecting and preserving cultural heritage objects, artworks, and collections by preventing damage and deterioration before it occurs. Instead of directly repairing or restoring items, they implement strategies like environmental monitoring, pest management, handling procedures, and storage solutions to minimize risks. Their work helps ensure that valuable objects are kept in optimal conditions for future generations. Preventive conservators often collaborate with curators, collection managers, and other conservation specialists to create long-term preservation plans.

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

To thrive as a Preventive Conservator, you need expertise in conservation science, environmental monitoring, and risk assessment, typically supported by a degree in conservation or a related field. Familiarity with tools like data loggers, integrated pest management systems, and environmental control software is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are standout soft skills for collaborating with museum staff and ensuring best practices. These skills are crucial for preserving collections by minimizing deterioration and preventing damage over time.

What are some common challenges preventive conservators face when implementing environmental controls in museums or archives?

Preventive Conservators often encounter challenges such as balancing optimal temperature and humidity levels with budgetary constraints and the limitations of existing building infrastructure. They may also need to coordinate with facilities staff to ensure that environmental monitoring equipment is properly installed and maintained. Additionally, educating and gaining buy-in from other staff members about the importance of preventive measures can be crucial for successful implementation. These challenges require strong communication skills and creative problem-solving to protect collections effectively.

What are popular job titles related to Preventive Conservator jobs?

For Preventive Conservator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Preventive Conservator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Assistant, Associate or Full Conservator - Paintings

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

Saint Louis Art Museum
201 - 500 employees

$88K - $110K/yr

Other

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Assistant, Associate or Full Conservator - Paintings

1 Fine Arts Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA

Job Description

Posted Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 6:00 AM

Applications received byJuly 24 will be given preference. Positions will remain open until filled.

Summary: Produces examinations, proposals, and other related documentation for collections objects, considered acquisitions, and loans from other entities. Conducts treatment on collection objects and provides recommendations for care and risk reduction. Consults with curators and external clients on preservation and treatment strategies. Assesses and reports the suitability of collection objects for loan and when necessary acts as a courier. Collaboratively advises museum staff and contractors on packing, handling, storage, installation, and environmental conditions required for collection objects. Assists with departmental planning, exhibition proposal review, and policy development & establishment. Assists with supervision of technicians, interns, and volunteers. Performs other duties according to the priorities assigned by senior staff

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Examine, document and treat art works in the Museum’s permanent collection and on loan under supervision of senior staff.
  • Design and carry out conservation treatment in consultation with Curators and stakeholders.
  • Provide written and photographic documentation to record condition of objects, treatments proposed, and treatments performed according to the AIC Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.
  • Carry out and/or facilitate study and analysis of works in the collection in support of curatorial, treatment, or research projects.
  • Produce presentations and/or publications for the advancement of the field and to highlight research initiatives.
  • Maintain professional networks and continuing education opportunities to remain current with best practices and philosophies.
  • Identify, solicit, and contract specialized vendors to supplement the museum’s in-house equipment or analytical capabilities.
  • Recommend other Conservators outside their field of expertise to consult and/or contract on projects, as needed.
  • Assist with the supervision of technicians, interns, and volunteers.
  • Advise on preventative maintenance in the Museum as a whole in the areas of environment, pest management, display, handling, packing, storage, and installation.
  • Work collaboratively with the Curator, Designer, Mountmaker and Preparators on the design of appropriate measures for display and/or storage.
  • Examine artworks prior to acquisition to aid the Curatorial staff in determining their physical and aesthetic condition, as well as their authenticity.
  • Examine works requested for loan to determine suitability for travel and to document their condition and advise on any special packing and shipping considerations.
  • Act as a courier for works of art, particularly objects with condition or handling concerns.
  • Monitor stock and order conservation supplies for the lab and specific projects.
  • Assist with public outreach, programs, and fundraising initiatives.
  • Master’s Degree from an accredited conservation program or its equivalent and full-time post-graduate experience practicing conservation in their field of specialty.
  • Familiarity with and adherence to the American Institute for Conservation’s (AIC) Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.
  • Experience in The Museum System (TMS) collections database or equivalent content management system, facility in digital documentation and productivity software, and experience.

Additional Details:
Pay Range
: $60,561 – $74,187/year, commensurate with experience

Status : Regular, Full-Time

Associate Conservator Qualifications:

  • Master’s Degree from an accredited conservation program or its equivalent and minimum of 5 years full-time post-graduate experience practicing conservation in their field of specialty.
  • Familiarity with and adherence to the American Institute for Conservation’s (AIC) Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.
  • Experience in The Museum System (TMS) collections database or equivalent content management system, facility in digital documentation and productivity software.

Additional Details:
Pay Range
: $68,131 – $83,461/year, commensurate with experience

Status : Regular, Full-Time

Conservator Qualifications:

  • Master’s Degree from an accredited conservation program or its equivalent and 8 or more years full-time post-graduate experience practicing conservation in their field of specialty.
  • Familiarity with and adherence to the American Institute for Conservation’s (AIC) Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.
  • Experience in The Museum System (TMS) collections database or equivalent content management system, facility in digital documentation and productivity software
  • Experience working in a Fine Arts museum is preferred

Additional Details:
Pay Range
: $88,302 – $110,377/year, commensurate with experience

Status : Regular, Full-Time

The Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to treating all applicants and employees fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience, without regard to sex, race, age, disability, religion, national origin, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by la w.

1 Fine Arts Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA

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