Assistant Conservator

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Professional Chicago, IL, US

2 days ago Requisition ID: 1137

Salary: $55,000.00 Annually

ABOUT THE NEWBERRY:

The Newberry collection—some 1.6 million books, 600,000 maps, and 5 million manuscript pages—is a portal to more than six centuries of human history, from the Middle Ages to the present. We connect researchers and visitors with our collection in the Newberry’s reading rooms, exhibition galleries, program spaces, classrooms, and online digital resources.

Since its founding in 1887, the Newberry has remained dedicated to deepening our collective understanding of ourselves and the world around us. As individuals engage with Newberry collections and staff, they discover stories that bridge the past and present and illuminate the human condition.

The Newberry’s community of discovery is driven by a shared commitment to promoting research, inspiring learning, and using inquiry across the humanities as a tool to engage critically in a vibrant democratic society.

SUMMARY:

Reporting to the Director of Conservation Services, the Assistant Conservator performs treatment and rehousing of Newberry Library collection materials and assists the Director in developing and implementing department protocols and initiatives.

This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by AFSCME Council 31.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• In consultation with Director of Conservation Services, assesses conservation and housing needs, and documents and conducts treatment of Newberry Library collection materials, which include a broad range of materials, such as books, archival documents, maps, manuscripts on paper and parchment, photographs, and other materials.
• Advises on and creates housing for collection items, as necessary;
• Participates in exhibition activities that may include carrying out treatment, as well as participating in installation and de-installation;
• Assists with loan activities that may include carrying out treatment, preparing condition reports and serving as a courier;
• Assists with training and educating Newberry staff in the care and handling of materials;
• Assists with surveying materials for grant proposals, digitization, and conservation projects;
• Participates in implementing environmental and pest monitoring programs; helps respond to environment concerns that arise;
• Assists with maintaining disaster preparedness materials and information, and coordinating disaster preparedness training programs;
• Assists with developing and implementing workflow for XRF analysis and monitoring of collection materials;
• Participates in producing conservation reports and statistics, and database management;
• Assists in monitoring conservation equipment and material supply needs; assists with placing orders as necessary;
• Participates in library committees;
• Participates in tours of the department and other forms of outreach;
• Stays informed of current research and developments in conservation, preservation, and related fields;
• Performs other tasks or activities needed for the achievement of departmental goals;

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree with a certificate in the conservation of books and paper.
• Knowledge of book history and structure.
• Excellent hand skills and understanding of conservation theory, practice, and treatments for library and archival materials including books, paper, maps, bound manuscripts on paper and parchment, and photographs.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, collaboratively, and productively in a dynamic environment.
• Demonstrated record of continued education in the field.
• Demonstrated ability using productivity software including spreadsheets and databases.
• Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to meet strict deadlines.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Manual dexterity of hands and fingers to manipulate complex and delicate equipment with precision and accuracy is required. The incumbent must be able to lift and/or move up to 30lbs and be able to work comfortably and safely on ladders.

SCHEDULE:

This is a full-time, exempt position, working 35 hours per week, with normal hours generally from 9:00 AM-5:00 PM, Monday to Friday.The incumbent will work onsite.

BENEFITS:

For more information, please see the "What We Offer" section on the Newberry Careers page .

THE NEWBERRY LIBRARY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

For more information, please see the Newberry Careers page ( .