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Temporary Art Conservation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

Preparator

Houston, TX · On-site

Installs/deinstalls artwork for temporary exhibitions and rotations * Transports artwork in the ... Assists conservation with outdoor sculpture maintenance * Loads/unloads art crates from trucks as ...

Washington University of St. Louis

Supports other priority departmental projects as assigned (e.g., temporary exhibition management ... conservation, art historical research, and collections management and care. Preferred ...

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Temporary Art Conservation information

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$27K

$69.6K

$121.5K

How much do temporary art conservation jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for temporary art conservation in the United States is $69,553.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,000.00 and $99,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is temporary art conservation?

Temporary art conservation involves the short-term preservation, stabilization, and protection of artworks, often for exhibitions, storage, or transport. Conservators in this role assess the condition of pieces, perform minor repairs or treatments, and ensure that artworks are handled and displayed in ways that minimize risk of damage. This work is crucial for maintaining the integrity of art during periods of increased vulnerability, such as loan periods or when artworks are being moved. Temporary art conservation may also involve preparing condition reports and advising on environmental controls to support the artwork's safety.

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

To thrive as a Temporary Art Conservator, you need a solid background in art history, chemistry, and conservation techniques, typically supported by a relevant degree or certification in art conservation. Familiarity with conservation documentation software, analytical tools for material analysis, and specialized restoration equipment is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help a conservator effectively preserve artworks and collaborate with museum staff. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the integrity, longevity, and proper care of valuable cultural artifacts during temporary conservation projects.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in temporary art conservation roles, and how can they be managed?

Temporary art conservation professionals often encounter challenges such as working with unfamiliar collections, adapting quickly to new institutional protocols, and managing tight project deadlines. Since assignments are usually short-term, conservators need to rapidly assess the condition of artworks, prioritize treatments, and communicate effectively with curators and other staff. Building strong organizational skills and being flexible in new environments can help manage these challenges and ensure high-quality conservation outcomes.

What is the difference between Temporary Art Conservation vs Art Conservation?

AspectTemporary Art ConservationArt Conservation
CredentialsTypically requires conservation training, certifications in art or conservationRequires advanced degrees (e.g., Master’s or PhD) in conservation or related fields
Work EnvironmentShort-term projects, museums, galleries, or private collectionsLong-term preservation, research, and treatment in museums or conservation labs
Employer & IndustryMuseums, galleries, private collectors, conservation labsMuseums, cultural institutions, private collections, research institutions

Temporary Art Conservation focuses on short-term projects to stabilize or restore artworks, often for exhibitions or specific events. Art Conservation involves ongoing, comprehensive preservation efforts, including research, long-term treatment, and preventive care. Both roles require specialized training, but the scope and duration of work differ significantly.

What cities are hiring for Temporary Art Conservation jobs?

Cities with the most Temporary Art Conservation job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Art Conservation jobs?

The most popular types of Art Conservation jobs are:

What states have the most Temporary Art Conservation jobs?

States with the most job openings for Temporary Art Conservation jobs include:

Temporary Art Conservation jobs near you

Exhibit Specialist - Art Handler/Mountmaker

Museum of the Bible, Inc.

Washington, DC • On-site

$31.25 - $39.37/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Exhibit Specialist - Art Handler/Mount Maker
Division / Department: Curatorial - Exhibits
Location: Washington DC
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Schedule: Full-Time, to include early mornings as required*
Reporting Manager: Exhibit Production Supervisor
Travel: N/A
Hourly Rate: $31.25 to $39.37, Depending on Experience*
*Pay scale is adjusted to local market rates.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Exhibit Specialist - Art Handler/Mount Maker is responsible for designing and fabricating museum-quality mounts and display supports for a wide range of collection objects, including fine art, manuscripts, archival materials, and archaeological artifacts. Using materials such as metal and acrylic, the successful candidate will create custom mounts that meet the highest standards for object safety, stability, and presentation.
This position plays a key role in the installation, deinstallation, and maintenance of temporary exhibitions and permanent collection displays. Responsibilities include rotating collection objects, conducting routine inspections of galleries and exhibit cases, assisting with object handling, packing and unpacking artworks and artifacts, and helping to ensure the overall care and appearance of exhibition spaces.
As a member of the Exhibits production team, the Exhibit Specialist works closely with colleagues on a variety of fabrication, installation, and collections-related projects. This role requires flexibility, teamwork, and a willingness to contribute wherever needed to support the successful execution of exhibitions and gallery operations.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Applies knowledge of current best practice in mount making techniques, policies and procedures to all tasks.
  • Creates cradles and mounts out of both acrylic and brass for collection objects and loans that will be on display.
  • Installation and maintenance of museum cases
  • Packing, unpacking, and general handling of art objects and artifacts
  • Participates in the maintenance, installation and de-installation of galleries and other spaces
  • Performs daily gallery inspections and cleaning
  • Assists other production staff as needed
  • Practices conventional museum procedures and techniques to ensure the safety of all exhibit objects
  • Maintains a professional demeanor while working alongside fellow museum colleagues
  • Ensure compliance with company guidelines, deadlines, and design standards
  • Champion the Museum of the Bible's mission to invite all people to engage with the transformative power of the Bible.
  • As required, inclusion in official or incidental photographs and videos for MOTB and/or guests.
  • Additional duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS
Education
  • HS Diploma or equivalent
  • Bachelor's degree - preferred in fine arts, studio arts, conservation, design, engineering or industrial arts

Qualifications
  • Must have a minimum of two years' experience working in a museum or art gallery as a preparator with experience handling and hanging fine art and/or museum objects.
  • Knowledge of proper art handling protocols
  • Ability to work in close collaboration with registrars, curators, conservators, and exhibition designers
  • Commitment to MOTB's mission of inviting all people to engage with the Bible

Skills
  • High attention to details and deadlines with excellent organizational skills
  • Proficient using a variety of power and hand tools along with safety standards
  • Proficient in working with acrylic/plastics, brasswork, book/paper, mannequin/textiles, seismic mitigation
  • Ability to design, fabricate and install museum object mounts and cradles which adhere to conventional mount-creating procedures while also retaining an artful design
  • Preferred experience in rigging and working with large, heavy art objects
  • Preferred ability to read blueprints and technical drawings
  • Ability to multi-task and to maintain confidentiality
  • Ability to interface professionally with individuals at all organizational levels

Pay Range: $31.25 - $39.37 per hour

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