Conservator | Austin, TX

The Texas State Library and Archives Commission has an opening for this full-time position:

Conservator (Curator II) - $4,335-$5,000 monthly

GENERAL SUMMARY
The conservator manages the daily activities of the well-equipped book and paper Summerlee Conservation Lab at TSLAC and performs complex treatments on rare and unique archival and library materials in accordance with the AIC code of ethics. This position develops and monitors work procedures for the unit, establishes priorities, and makes treatment decisions. The conservator is also called on to assist with outreach and educational programs, preservation planning and surveys, emergency response, and environmental control. This position oversees the work of a full-time conservation technician and may also instruct and monitor interns, students, or volunteers assigned to assist with conservation tasks. Learn about the work undertaken in our conservation lab at our TSLAC Conservation blog, https://www.tsl.texas.gov/conservation/.

ESSENTIAL TASKS 
Plans and manages the operations of the book and paper conservation laboratory, including administrative tasks 
Examines and documents collections holdings to determine structure, materials, and condition
Conducts book and paper conservation treatment for TSLAC collections
Constructs enclosures for books, manuscripts, photographs, and other library and archival materials
Conducts or organizes tours, workshops, and instructional sessions for a variety of audiences
Performs exhibit preparation; assists with installation
Serves as Conservation Team Lead
Trains the staff, interns, and volunteers in basic conservation methods.
Attends work regularly and in accordance with agency leave and attendance policies
Complies with all applicable agency policies and procedures, including safety and standards of conduct
Other Duties as assigned

NON-ESSENTIAL TASKS
May assist with the preparation of grant applications and budget requests

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Master’s degree in Conservation; or Master’s degree in Library Science (from ALA-accredited program) or a related field, with specialized training in conservation
One year of related experience in a conservation lab setting
Experience in the complex treatment of paper-based collections including the relevant chemistry and conservation theory
Work experience using Microsoft Office Suite software
Ability to speak and write well-organized, grammatically correct English
Ability to analyze data and formulate conclusions
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff
Ability to perform visual activities requiring prolonged attention to detail
Ability to plan and arrange own work in order to meet deadlines
Ability to lift and move boxes weighing up to 40 lbs

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Experience in exhibit preparation and installation
Experience developing and/or maintaining conservation treatment documentation systems 
Knowledge of preservation planning
Experience developing preservation training for staff, interns, or volunteers
Experience presenting training or educational programs to a variety of audiences
Experience leading or overseeing the work of others

OTHER REQUIREMENTS
Complete college transcripts required at the time of application
Portfolio of recent conservation treatments (physical or link to digital copy accepted) must be submitted at the time of application. 
Criminal history check

SUPERVISION
Reports to Director, Archives and Information Services Division
Serves as Team Lead for Conservation.

To review this job posting go to https://www.tsl.texas.gov/jobs.