Photograph Conservator

The Conservation Center for Art & Historic Artifacts (CCAHA) in Philadelphia is seeking a full-time Photograph Conservator. The candidate should have demonstrated ability in treating both fine art and archival collections of photographic materials.  The ability to work with peers and support staff in a collaborative environment is essential, as is the capability to independently plan and structure one's time to meet deadlines and billable goals.

This position reports to the Director of Conservation. This position also regularly works with the Registrar, Housing and Imaging staff and Administrative staff as needed. 

 Responsibilities:

  • Write condition reports and treatment proposals. This includes estimating hours for these proposals.
  • Perform conservation treatment and other services in accordance with AIC’s Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.
  • Build relationships with clients, meeting with them both virtually and in-person to discuss treatment options and goals.
  • Collaborate with Housing and Imaging departments, and Preservation Services department to articulate other services offered by CCAHA.
  • Participation in outreach through one or more of the following: presenting talks and/or workshops, working with the Manager of Marketing on social media posts, publishing journal articles or CCAHA technical leaflets.
  • Involvement in CCAHA subcommittees and execution of various lab duties will be requisite and matched to one’s interests and skills.
  • Travel for on-site projects, and survey assessments as needed.

 Qualifications:

The candidate should be/have...

  • A graduate of a recognized conservation training program, or equivalent experience, with a specialization in photographic materials required. A minimum of five years of professional experience is preferred. 
  • A thorough understanding of preventive conservation principles.
  • Familiarity with designing and conducting surveys and planning large projects with cultural institutions.
  • Exceptional hand skills, excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite.
  • The preferred candidate will also have experience in mentoring interns.

Compensation

This is a full-time, exempt position. A generous benefits package that includes paid time-off, medical, dental and vision, FSA, and retirement matches are included. The salary offered will be based on experience. Salary ranges begin at:

Minimum $47,875 for up to 5 years of professional experience
Minimum $55,240 for 5 - 10 years professional experience
Minimum $68,500 for 10+ years professional experience

To Apply

Please upload a letter of interest, CV/resume, and three sample treatment reports addressed to Jessica Silverman, Director of Conservation at https://recruiting.paylocity.com/Recruiting/Jobs/Details/1715771. PDF files only.

Informal meetings to discuss the position with the Director of Conservation at the 2023 AIC Conference are possible. Questions about the position may be directed to Jessica Silverman at jsilverman@ccaha.org. Applications received at this email address will not be considered.

Application materials should be received by June 9. Interviews are expected to begin the week of July 10.

About CCAHA 

CCAHA was founded in 1977 and has grown to be one of the largest nonprofit conservation centers in the country. Its wide array of services, treatment facilities, innovative approaches, and highly trained and experienced staff have earned it a prominent and respected place in the conservation field. We serve nonprofit cultural institutions, private individuals, and other collecting organizations in the preservation of works on paper, archival documents, photographic materials, and books through conservation treatment, collection surveys and consultations, housing & framing, and digital imaging services. Our preventive conservation and preservation services staff focuses on capacity building for collecting institutions through fundraising support, strategic planning and assessment projects, emergency planning and response initiatives, and in developing educational programs and conferences. CCAHA’s mission is to provide expertise and leadership in the preservation of the world's cultural heritage.

Conservation Center for Art & Historic Artifacts (CCAHA) is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, creed, color, religion, alienage or national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability or handicap, sex, gender identity, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff and our clients.