Andrew W Mellon Fellow in Objects Conservation

The Conservation Fellow will work under the mentorship of the Director of Objects and Textiles Conservation, gaining hands-on experience in examining, documenting, analyzing, and treating a wide range of historic and contemporary three-dimensional works. The Fellowship offers opportunities for professional development, research, and involvement in conservation practices within a large museum setting.

Responsibilities:

• Treatment & Conservation: Design and carry out treatment strategies for in-house exhibitions, loans, and ongoing care of the collection.
• Documentation: Complete written and photographic documentation of objects for treatment, condition reports, and general conservation records, adhering to digital preservation standards.
• Examinations & Condition Reports: Perform incoming and outgoing examinations and condition reports for objects being lent, stored, or considered for acquisition.
• Collaboration with Conservation Scientists: Work alongside conservation scientists to conduct scientific analysis on collection items.
• Research Projects: Undertake publishable research projects related to conservation.
• Training & Maintenance: Assist in training staff and interns on proper handling of three-dimensional works and help maintain conservation laboratory equipment and supplies.
• Diversity & Inclusion: Actively contribute to creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable museum environment, treating colleagues and visitors with fairness and respect.
• Confidentiality: Ensure the confidentiality of sensitive collection information and conservation details.

Qualifications:

• Education: Graduate of a recognized conservation-training program with a specialization in objects conservation, or 3-5 years equivalent experience in object conservation in a museum setting.
• Experience: Experience with examining and documenting works of art in accordance with industry standards.
• Preferred Experience: Experience with large-scale collection moves is desirable.

Benefits:

• Generous Paid Time Off: Includes paid holidays (up to 14 days) and vacation.
• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Parental & Medical Leave: Generous leave benefits.
• Retirement & Tuition Benefits: Competitive retirement plan, tuition remission, and the Tuition Exchange Program.
• Employee Perks: Discounts and complimentary admission to participating cultural institutions.

Closing Statement:

The Art Institute of Chicago is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values diversity and inclusivity in its hiring and work environment. The museum complies with federal and state disability laws and offers reasonable accommodations as needed.