PART-TIME TERM ASSISTANT OBJECTS CONSERVATOR – Atlanta, GA

PART-TIME TERM ASSISTANT OBJECTS CONSERVATOR – Atlanta, GA

The Williamstown + Atlanta Art Conservation Centers (W+AACC) seeks a part-time, term limited Objects Conservator at the Assistant level for our Atlanta lab.  We welcome applicants regardless of their race, gender identification, sexual orientation, disability, or protected class. 

 

The start date for this opportunity is negotiable but the preference is for this position to begin August 2026. This is a part-time position of 2-3 days per week (depending on the selected candidate’s preference).  It is a 6-month position with the possibility of renewal. 

 

The selected applicant will work with a wide range of materials and cultural heritage resources, from historic to modern, belonging to a mix of institutions such as museums, universities, historic houses, and private clients. The conservator will join a collaborative and experienced team of paper, paintings, and objects conservators supported by conservation technicians and administrative staff.  

 

ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEW 

W+AACC is a non-profit organization comprised of regional conservation centers in the Northeast and Southeast.  Our state-of-the-art conservation centers enjoy strong relationships with local museums and institutions of higher education. The Williamstown Center is located on the campus of the Clark Art Institute, while the Atlanta Center is located in an offsite facility of the High Museum of Art. W+AACC’s mission is to protect, conserve, and maintain heritage objects from all cultures.  With a membership of more than fifty organizations, W+AACC is the largest regional conservation center in the country.  

 

Our conservators adhere to the Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice as formulated by the American Institute for Conservation of Historic & Artistic Works (AIC), the national membership organization of conservation professionals.    

 

DUTIES  

 Under the supervision of the Head of Lab, the successful candidate will:  

 

  • Perform conservation treatments to support approved projects  
  • Conduct examinations  
  • Contribute to treatment proposals, including estimates for labor and materials costs  
  • Participate in collection surveys, institutional assessments, and consultations   
  • Collaborate with other conservation and collections professionals in developing and performing treatments and preventive care activities 
  • Develop protocols and environmental and material standards for the display, handling, storage, and transport of paintings-based art and cultural heritage. 
  • Conduct research to understand objects and support recommended treatment protocols   

 

OTHER DUTIES 

  • Communicate collection stewards regarding projects, in concert with supervisor and W+AACC administrative staff 
  • Contribute to project management and maintain accurate records and documentation, including through effective use of databases 
  • Contribute to W+AACC’s outreach and educational activities    
  • Participate in interdepartmental projects 
  • Participate in staff meetings   
  • Stay current with theoretical discourse, best practice, and innovation in the field    
  • Perform other duties as assigned 

  

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS 

  • A Master’s degree in conservation with a specialization in objects, or equivalent education and experience  
  • 1-2 years post graduate experience  
  • Commitment to the Code of Ethics established by the American Institute for Conservation 
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment with a “can-do” attitude and commitment to high-quality service   
  • Demonstrates flexibility and openness in daily work  
  • Demonstrates respect and professionalism toward coworkers   
  • Legal authorization to work in the United States (e.g. U.S. citizenship or valid visa) 
  • Possession of a valid driver’s license is strongly preferred 

 

  COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS 

 $30/hour. This is a part-time, term position and is not benefits-eligible, except for accrued sick time provided by the organization. 

 

TO APPLY 

 Please send a letter of interest, a resume or CV, contact information for three references, and a portfolio demonstrating three treatments performed by the applicant that address the requirements of the position.  

 

Direct application materials and inquiries to:  WACC@Williamstownart.org 

 

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.