CONSERVATOR OF GILDED OBJECTS AND FRAMES (Associate or Senior)

The Conservation Center in Chicago seeks a Conservator of Gilded Objects and Frames to join our team. This role is responsible for the examination, documentation, and conservation of gilded and decorative objects. This role offers the opportunity to work within a collaborative studio environment for a diverse clientele that includes museums, cultural institutions, and private collectors. The ideal candidate will bring deep technical expertise in traditional and modern gilding techniques, as well as a strong understanding of historic materials and conservation ethics. In addition to conservation responsibilities, candidates with museum-quality custom framing experience are strongly preferred, including experience assembling custom frame packages to conservation standards. This is a full‑time exempt position. Regular work hours are Monday through Friday, 9 am–5 pm. Compensation is commensurate with experience. The salary range for Associate level is $55,000 – $65,000, and the range for Senior level is $68,000 – $78,000. Benefits include health, dental, vision, 401(k), paid leave, sick leave, and paid holidays. Occasional travel may be required. Responsibilities Examine, document, and treat gilded frames and objects in accordance with professional conservation standards and ethical guidelines. Perform conservation treatments including structural stabilization, surface cleaning, consolidation, inpainting, and gilding. Prepare detailed written condition reports, treatment proposals, and post‑treatment documentation. Collaborate with other Conservation departments, Art Handlers, Registrars, and Client Services Representatives to ensure safe handling and successful outcomes. Maintain accurate project records and adhere to internal documentation systems and workflows. Participate in research initiatives and remain current on advances in gilding conservation techniques and materials. Support studio organization, equipment maintenance, and best practices for handling of conservation materials. Assist with designing and creating complex museum‑quality custom frame packages, ensuring compliance with conservation and archival standards. Collaborate with clients and internal teams on framing solutions appropriate for artworks of varying media and periods. Qualifications Master’s degree in conservation with a specialization in objects, decorative arts, or a closely related field, or equivalent professional training and experience in the same areas of specialization, is required. Demonstrated specialization in the conservation of gilded surfaces, including water gilding and oil gilding, casting, and carving. Strong preference for candidates with professional museum‑quality custom framing experience, including designing custom framing packages, fitting artworks in custom frame packages, performing custom hinging, and hand cutting matting. Minimum of 5 years of post‑graduation conservation experience for Associate level; 10+ years for Senior level. Knowledge of historic frame styles, materials, and fabrication techniques strongly preferred. Excellent hand skills and a high level of craftsmanship. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information clearly to clients and colleagues. Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail. Experience working in a collaborative, fast‑paced studio environment. Confident ability to use creative solving problem skills to navigate complex projects. Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and project management software. Commitment to professional ethics and best practices in art conservation. Willingness to adapt and contribute to evolving studio needs and priorities. The Conservation Center is an equal opportunity employer. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check. #J-18808-Ljbffr The Conservation Center