Conservator
The International Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works
- Doha, Qatar
- Permanent
- Full-time
- a strong, energetic team player.
- versatile and able to adapt in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
- able to work effectively under pressure to meet deadlines.
- Work with the QOSM Teams team to provide the full range of preventive conservation duties for the collections and objects on loan.
- Prepare artefacts for storage and shipping, creating bespoke solutions as appropriate.
- To undertake, direct and supervise curatorial, technical, and other staff in the object handling, packing/ transportation, mounting, care, and safe storage.
- Provide preventive conservation guidance and training, and support the development of the wider team.
- Monitor and report on storage and display environmental conditions using the appropriate software and systems to ensure object safety.
- Assist with regular storage maintenance and cleaning, including the cleaning of objects on open display.
- Design preventive conservation plans and draft policies and procedures to protect the QOSM collections in compliance with the International Museum Code of Ethics.
- Provide advice and assistance with emergency planning and response.
- To help develop and implement Integrated Pest Management Guidelines and appropriate preventive conservation programs for the Department.
- Provide clients with advice and recommendations on transport, handling and display requirements.
- Perform condition assessments, and design and execute conservation treatments for the QOSM objects.
- Determine whether objects need conservation and choose the safest and most effective method as per internationally approved and up-to-date methods and ethics.
- Manage the day-to-day running of the conservation laboratory. Deliver administrative work necessary for the laboratory and office.
- Conserve objects as required.
- Install, arrange, assemble, and prepare artefacts for exhibition, ensuring the artefacts' safety, and identify and correct any problems.
- Condition assessment of the objects before and after installation, and preparing the reports and documentation.
- Design and prepare object mounts as required.
- Close collaboration with the various internal and external stakeholders.
- Assist with regular gallery maintenance and cleaning. Supervise contractors as required.
- Support all other departmental activities as required.
- Prepare written and photo reports, documenting the condition of artefacts, treatment options, and the methods of preservation and repair used.
- Create condition checks and condition reports in the QM Collections Management System and any other documentation as required.
- To use QM CMS system to document and improve departments' documentation of pest management and environmental monitoring.
- Provide written and photographic documentation to record the condition of objects, treatments proposed, and treatments performed.
- Manage and work on multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.
- Work on projects independently, as well as in cooperation with other stakeholders.
- Master's degree from a recognised Conservation Programme, with at least 5 years' relevant practical preventive and remedial conservation experience, preferably in a museum setting.
- Practical and theoretical knowledge in preventive conservation.
- Ability to use environmental monitoring instruments and software.
- Demonstrated knowledge of conservation ethics, conservation science, analytical techniques, preventive conservation, and collections handling and care.
- Experience with collections care, object handling, and repacking.
- Understanding of chemistry and lab safety as it applies to conservation.
- Demonstrated manual dexterity and ability to use hand and power tools.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure and in self-motivated and dynamic way to meet deadlines and enjoying the freedom to work independently at the same time whilst following directions.
- Ability to plan, prioritise, multi-task, and meet deadlines.
- Strong organisational skills are essential, with the ability to prioritise and organise complex projects and multiple activities.
- Demonstrated interpersonal and teamwork skills complemented by the ability to take initiative on complex projects.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with various stakeholders within and outside of the QM.
- Excellent oral and written English skills, and high standards of interdepartmental communication.
- Strong computer and software skills. Proficiency in the use of a computer for research, writing, documentation, organisation, and data management.
The International Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works