Post-Graduate Preservation Specialist

The Conservation Center for Art & Historic Artifacts (CCAHA) in Philadelphia is seeking a Post-Graduate Preservation Specialist. This NEH-funded position is a full-time, twelve-month temporary position starting September 1, 2024.

Objective 

Under the guidance of the Director of Preservation Services and working closely with the rest of the Preservation Services team, this position contributes to the mission of CCAHA through the implementation of surveys, educational programs, outreach, and information services to libraries, archives, museums, historical societies, and other organizations and individuals.

Location 

This position is in Philadelphia. This position is located in Philadelphia. After the 90th day of employment, a flexible work arrangement may be considered with at least 60% of the employee’s time spent on-site at CCAHA.

Reports to: The Post-Graduate Preservation Specialist reports to the Director of Preservation Services.

Responsibilities: 

  • Conducting on-site preservation needs assessments and risk assessments with written reports; 
  • Assisting institutions with emergency preparedness initiatives; writing preservation-related bulletins and articles for publication; 
  • Developing, presenting, and organizing educational programs and workshops; 
  • Providing technical information via telephone, e-mail, and in print on preservation topics. 
  • The Preventive Conservation Fellow will also complete a research/demonstration project based upon the development and implementation of targeted preventive conservation recommendations at a collecting institution.

Qualifications: 

  • MS in Conservation, MA in Museum Studies, or MLS (or equivalent);
  • Training in and a thorough understanding of preservation principles, practice, and issues; 
  • Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills; 
  • Ability to work independently; 
  • Familiarity with conducting and writing preservation assessments and other planning documents for cultural institutions; 
  • Talent in teaching and public speaking. 
  • Candidates with some background or demonstrated interest/experience in conservation treatment and/or preventive conservation will receive preferential consideration. 
  • Travel is required.

Compensation: 
This is a full-time, exempt position. A generous benefits package that includes paid time off, medical, dental and vision, FSA, and professional development are included. The salary is $43,812.

To Apply

Interested applicants should prepare a resume, three references, and a writing sample. Please submit your application and upload these as PDF attachments or as a link to your online portfolio at https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/Details/2299481/Conservation-Center-for-Art/Post-Graduate-Preservation-Specialist

Questions about the position or application process may be directed to Ms. Dyani Feige, Director of Preservation Services, dfeige@ccaha.org. The application deadline is Friday, April 26.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. We are currently not offering sponsorship.

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, sophisticated 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.      

CCAHA does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff and our clients.