Job Description

University of Utah Job Description

Job Title: Conservator
Job Code: 0428	Grade/FLSA: D/Exempt
Updated By: CJV, June 2001

Job Summary

Plans and carries outall aspects of conservation treatment on collections. Researches and administers conservation, preservation and documentation of analysis. Resulting decisions impact short and long-term strategic conservation practices.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in History, Art, Humanities, Library Science, related field or equivalency plus one year directly relatied experience required. Knowledge of conservation and preservation principles; ability to implement proper preservation packing and shipping procedures; experience supervising, teaching and training others is also required. Demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills are required in order to effectively work with volunteers, employees and the public.

Bachelor's degree in a related field and additional years of experience may be required for some assignments.

An advanced degree in a related field or Certification preferred.

This poisition does not provide patient care.

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

Disclaimer

This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

Essential Functions

Determines and implements methods for preservation and conservation of items which include art, artifacts or documents.
Researches appropriate materials, tools and equipment to support preservation activities.
Manages and supervises conservation lab, including ordering supplies and maintaining equipment.
Plans, designs and prepares materials for exhibition and loan.
Advises others how to move, pack and display collections according to preservation practices.
Assists with researching and writing grant proposals for conservation funding.
Provides instruction and supervision of conservation and preservation procedures to interns, volunteers and student employees.

Problem Solving
This position defines all treatment specifications for a variety of collections. The research and subsequent techniques that are implemented must be analyzed and adjusted for each collection. Results of the conservation practices are influenced by the way the technique is executed or directed by the incumbent. Therefore, skill in administering the preservation, as well as knowledge of what is supposed to be successful, strongly influences the preservation of the collection.

Comments
Guidelines have been established for two levels that have been developed for this position and are attached to this job description.

campus:

Job Description