Conservator (Visa Sponsorship Available)

About the Company

Manchester Art Gallery is a leading cultural institution dedicated to showcasing and preserving a diverse collection of fine art, decorative art, and costume. With a rich history and a vibrant program of exhibitions and events, we play a crucial role in enriching the cultural landscape of Manchester and beyond. Our mission is to inspire, educate, and engage audiences through art, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of human creativity and heritage.

Job Description

We are seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Conservator to join our esteemed team at Manchester Art Gallery. This pivotal role involves the comprehensive care, preservation, and restoration of our diverse collections, ensuring their longevity for future generations. The successful candidate will apply their expertise across various media, conducting condition assessments, preventative conservation, and interventive treatments. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work with a world-class collection within a dynamic museum environment. We are pleased to offer visa sponsorship for eligible international candidates who possess the requisite skills and experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough condition assessments and diagnostic examinations of artworks and objects within the collection.
• Develop and implement appropriate conservation treatment proposals in line with professional standards and ethical guidelines.
• Perform skilled interventive conservation treatments, including cleaning, stabilization, repair, and restoration, using a range of materials and techniques.
• Implement preventative conservation strategies, including environmental monitoring, integrated pest management, and safe handling procedures.
• Prepare objects for exhibition, loan, storage, and transport, ensuring their safety and stability.
• Maintain detailed and accurate conservation records, including treatment reports, photographic documentation, and condition reports.
• Contribute to ongoing research related to conservation materials, techniques, and object history.
• Collaborate with curators, registrars, and other museum staff on collection care and exhibition planning.
• Advise on display, storage, and environmental conditions to ensure optimal preservation of the collection.
• Participate in outreach and educational programs, sharing expertise with the public and professional peers.

Required Skills

• Master's degree or equivalent in Conservation, Art Conservation, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of professional experience as a Conservator in a museum, gallery, or heritage institution.
• Demonstrated expertise in the conservation of at least one major collection area (e.g., paintings, works on paper, textiles, decorative arts).
• Proficiency in advanced conservation techniques and materials science.
• Excellent diagnostic and problem-solving skills.
• Meticulous attention to detail and strong manual dexterity.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills for documentation and collaboration.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Commitment to ethical conservation practices and professional development.

Preferred Qualifications

• Specialist expertise in the conservation of multiple material types.
• Experience with project management in conservation initiatives.
• Familiarity with digital imaging and 3D documentation techniques.
• Membership in a recognized professional conservation body (e.g., ICON).
• Proficiency in additional languages relevant to art history or conservation research.

Perks & Benefits

• Visa sponsorship for eligible international candidates.
• Generous pension scheme.
• Competitive annual leave allowance.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• Access to a world-renowned art collection.
• Employee discounts at museum shops and cafes.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment.
• Contribution to preserving cultural heritage for future generations.

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