Paper Conservator JOB

1.    JOB PURPOSE

To carry out conservation treatment and the preventive conservation of the paper-based material across collections (owned or borrowed) encompassing prints, drawings, watercolors, wallpapers, albums and sketchbooks, original artwork and archival material under the ownership or care of the DCT and ensure quality control of outsourced conservation activities.

2.    ACCOUNTABILITIES

Key Accountabilities 
Conservation Operations

• Coordinate with the Collections units and input to the review and set policies, standards and procedures for collections conservation.
• Collaborate with and assist the Collections units in planning, monitoring and implementing the annual program of remedial and preventive paper conservation.
• Oversee departmental paper conservation projects including research and treatment of the permanent collections, establish priorities for conservation research.
• Undertake conservation of paper collections, perform preventive conservation activities, conduct object treatment and oversee all hands-on work and administrative activities related to preservation.
• Advice on installation, display and storage of the paper and photograph collection to ensure proper maintenance and preservation.
• Keep up to date with the latest conservation techniques and practices, through research and training.
• Implement best practices and appropriate conservation standards, working closely with engineers, conservation and security to establish technical specifications regarding climate, lighting, and security systems in order to assure safe venues for objects and works of art.
• Input into maintenance, cleaning and other external contract specifications which relate to the preventive conservation strategy as required.
• Identify conservation work to be outsourced. Manage and control quality of outsourced work
• Support the planning of the safe movement of paper-based collections by undertaking condition assessments, preparing conservation documentation, advising on packing and crate specifications, and providing conservation support during transport, installation, de-installation, exhibitions, loans, and courier activities if required.
• Take supervisory role occasionally: direct and supervise interns, volunteers, and newer staff members in the handling, mounting, care, and storage of the DCT Collections of paper-based and photograph objects.
• Deliver talks and presentations to amateur and professional audiences.

Reports & Database 

• Preparation of condition reports for the proposed acquisitions or loans of paper-based material as required. 
• Record all activities relating to the conservation such as photographic documentation, condition reports, treatments proposals, and treatments performed reports, using Collection Management System.
• Produce reports for all research results and ensure availability of said reports for use by all units / individuals involved in the handling of art works, whether owned or borrowed.

Policies, Processes and Procedures

• Follow all Collections section policies, processes, procedures and instructions so that work is carried out in a controlled and consistent manner

Collaboration

• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders on matters related to Paper Conservation area in order to facilitate flow of information and to build awareness in those areas.

Day-to-Day Operations

• Follow the day-to-day operations set by the Line Manager in the Collections section to ensure continuity of work and the delivery of effective and high quality outputs.
• Report on a regular basis to Senior Conservator Unit Head on their operational activities, challenges, hurdles and methods of resolution or mitigation etc. 

EHS (Environment, Health and Safety)

• Comply with all relevant EHS guidelines, policies and procedures, by reporting incidents and hazards on a timely manner, and reduce consumption of natural resources to support in protecting the environment and ensure a healthy and safe work environment.

Change Management

• Support the creation of culture susceptible to change management through a ‘hands-on’ and ‘can-do’ approach to DCT’s new business opportunities, participating in the development of new initiatives, meeting planned targets, and demonstrating preferred high-performance behaviours.

3. COMMUNICATION & WORKING RELATIONSHIPS

Internal

• Culture Sector

External

• Key Vendors/Suppliers
• Government & Education Institutions
• International Institutions 

4. QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE, COMPETENCIES

Qualifications

• BA or MA degree in paper and photography conservation, Library Science, Arts, Culture or its equivalent in related discipline.

Experience

• BA Degree Holders: 3 to 4 years of experience in Paper/Photography Conservation.
• MA Degree Holders: 2 to 3 years of experience in Paper/Photography Conservation.

Core Competencies

• Extensive knowledge of the conservation theory and techniques with a focus on books, paper, and photo materials; conservation principles and ethics. 
• Good understanding of the Art History (knowledge in the history of books and Islamic Art is desirable).
• Proficient knowledge of museum collection management standards, documentation systems, and professional conservation guidelines.

Functional Competencies

• Practical skills
• Ability to work individually and as part of a team.
• Ability to plan, prioritize, and manage multiple conservation projects while meeting deadlines. 
• Strong written and verbal skills in English. 
• Interest in professional development.