Introduction
The Art Institute of Chicago shares its singular collections with our city and the world. We collect, care for, and interpret works of art across time, cultures, geographies, and identities, centering the vision of artists and makers. We recognize that all art is made in a particular context, demanding continual, dynamic reconsideration in the present. We are a place of gathering; we foster the exchange of ideas and inspire an expansive, inclusive understanding of human creativity.
Position Summary
With varying degrees of supervision, the Assistant Conservator carries out examination, research and treatment of objects in the permanent collection, providing ongoing care to textiles of all provenance and times. Conducts in-depth studies and publishes on artists’ technique and on methods and materials used in the making or caring of works of art. Assists with preparation, installation, and documentation of exhibitions and loans, and serves as a courier with artwork as needed. Assists with collection care and preventive conservation processes. Is committed to and actively engaged in fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable work environment.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Treatment and Collection Care
- Prepares treatment proposals in consultation with the Director of Objects and Textiles Conservation and specialty conservators. Executes conservation treatments with supervision.
- Determines and documents an object’s condition, including structural and material analysis when possible.
Exhibitions, Loans, and Acquisitions
- Working under the direction of specialty conservators contributes to select aspects of preparation, mounting, and installation of exhibitions, as needed depending on installation complexity and in collaboration with other museum specialists.
- With varying degrees of supervision, carries out examinations on textiles as they enter and leave the museum for loans, and prepares and shares related documentation.
Conservation records
- Maintains all conservation documentation pertaining to the collection in the department’s files and shares copies in the museum’s collection management database and digital asset management system in accordance with the highest archival and digital preservation standards.
Facilities and Supplies
- Contributes to lab maintenance and safety, researches and orders supplies in consultation with the Administrative Coordinator for Conservation and Science.
Collaboration
- Maintains clear communication with colleagues about ongoing priorities, goals, and projects.
- Supports the museum in its commitment to creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable institution; treats colleagues and visitors fairly and respectfully, recognizing the value that diverse backgrounds and perspectives bring to our organization.
Research
- Conducts research and publishes on textiles technique, conservation and on methods and materials.
- Keeps up to date with the newest technologies and seeks ways of applying them to the conservation of Art Institute collections.
Communication, professional development and dissemination
- Publishes results of research projects in Museum publications, social media, and journals aimed at both professional and general audiences.
- Travels to attend conferences, present papers and confer with colleagues.
Training and Mentorship
- May occasionally be asked to supervise interns, volunteers and visiting scholars as needed.
- May be asked by supervisor or specialty conservators to participate in the training and supervision of art handlers, photographers and other specialists in all aspects of their work with objects and equipment.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand for hours at a time, lift up to 30 pounds, and work in an environment which includes exposure to materials containing possible dust, pests and mold.
Qualifications
Master’s degree from a recognized conservation training program with preferably two years of post-graduate experience or commensurate qualification and experience. Proven expertise in the treatment and preservation of textiles. Must possess knowledge of sewing techniques, textile structures and garment construction. Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills as demonstrated by written reports, publications, presentations or social media presence. Must be able to manage multiple projects with tight deadlines and be proficient at project prioritization. Embraces the museum’s commitment to creating an inclusive and equitable institution.
For fullest consideration: submit a resume, cover letter, contact information of two references, a portfolio with two or three examples of projects, along with one sample of a relevant publication.
(please attach all as one document when uploading)
Benefits
We offer a competitive, comprehensive benefits package:
- 5+ weeks of paid time off
- Paid holidays (up to 14 days)
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Generous parental, caregiver, and medical leave benefits
- Competitive retirement plan (up to 9% matching contribution)
- Tuition remission and Tuition Exchange Program
- Great employee discounts
- Complimentary general admission to participating cultural institutions
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Application Time Out Warning
The Art Institute of Chicago requires all applicants to complete an online application to be considered for employment. 60 minutes are allotted for applicants to complete the employment application. The application will automatically time out after 60 minutes. If you are unable to submit the completed application at this time, please choose the “Save for Later” option to avoid losing the information you have entered so far.
Closing Statement
Vaccination Expectation
Becoming vaccinated against COVID-19 is the most important contribution we as individuals can make to ensure our own safety and the safety of our museum and school community. All employees must complete an attestation and provide proof of their vaccination status, or request a medical or religious exemption within the first week of employment.
The Art Institute of Chicago is an equal opportunity, equal access employer fully committed to achieving a diverse and inclusive workplace. We believe in a staff culture that benefits from a wide range of experience, backgrounds, and career paths, and we encourage nontraditional candidates to apply.
TO APPLY: Visit the ARTIC job site and select the option “An external applicant seeking a staff job or internship.” Search jobs for “Assistant Conservator, Textiles.” Or use this link.
