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Art Conservator Job Description

What does an Art Conservator do?

An Art Conservator is responsible for preserving and restoring artworks and cultural artifacts. They primarily work in museums, galleries and other cultural institutions to ensure that art pieces are maintained in the best possible condition. The role of an Art Conservator involves research, analysis, and documentation of the artwork’s condition, as well as the use of specialized techniques and equipment to repair or restore it. They must have in-depth knowledge of art history, materials, chemistry and preservation techniques, and be skilled in handling delicate and valuable objects. Overall, an Art Conservator plays a crucial role in ensuring that artworks are preserved for future generations to enjoy.

Our Art Conservator job description includes the Art Conservator responsibilities, duties, skills, education, qualifications, and experience.

Art Conservator Example


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If you need an example job description for an Art Conservator download the one below, alternatively we have many other Arts job description samples and a job description library with over 3000 job descriptions templates that you can download for free.

What does an Art Conservator do?

The role of an Art Conservator is to ensure the protection and preservation of artworks, objects and monuments. This involves researching and diagnosing the condition of an artwork or object, determining the most suitable conservation treatment and then carrying out the work. An Art Conservator must possess a high level of technical expertise, a deep knowledge of art history, chemistry and materials science, and the ability to work with and handle artworks and objects of all shapes and sizes. The successful candidate will also possess excellent communication and organisation skills, as well as the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Art Conservator Role Purpose

The purpose of an Art Conservator in the UK is to preserve and protect works of art and cultural heritage objects through the application of scientific, technical and material knowledge. This includes preventive conservation, examination, documentation, treatment, and research. They are responsible for ensuring the long-term preservation of collections through careful and accurate assessment, appropriate interventions, and providing advice on storage and display conditions. They work closely with curators, collections managers, museum technicians, and other experts to ensure the best possible outcomes for the preservation, restoration and exhibition of artworks and other objects.

Art Conservator Role

An Art Conservator is a professional responsible for preserving, restoring and maintaining works of art and cultural artefacts. They use specialist techniques and materials to ensure their long-term preservation and can work in a variety of settings, from museums and art galleries to private collections. Art Conservators must have a thorough knowledge of art history, materials and techniques, and be able to assess the condition of works of art and develop appropriate strategies for their conservation.

Art Conservator Duties

  • Examine, clean and repair works of art
  • Advise on conservation techniques and preventive conservation measures
  • Carry out research into the history and condition of works of art
  • Produce detailed reports of findings and recommendations
  • Liaise with artists, curators, other conservators and the public

Art Conservator Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in conservation or related field
  • Knowledge of chemistry, materials science and preventive conservation techniques
  • Experience with a variety of materials
  • Excellent record keeping and organisational skills
  • Strong communication skills

Art Conservator Skills

  • analysing and interpreting artistic objects
  • preserving materials
  • documenting work
  • working with curators and other experts

Art Conservator Personal Traits

  • Highly organised
  • Patient
  • Curious
  • Able to work independently
  • Attention to detail

How to write an Art Conservator Job Advert

Use our job advert template to write a job advert for posting on job sites and job boards. Our job advertising templates are carefully created to help you reach your audience and beat the competition to the best talent.

A job description informs the reader about a job, whereas a job advert’s main objective is to sell the job opportunity to attract as many suitable applicants possible. A job advert maybe the first touch-point a candidate has with your company so it is important to create a great impression.

Job Advertisements should enticing, so considering using short, exciting language which get the reader’s attention.

How to write an Art Conservator Job Description

To write a job description, we recommend starting with a job description template from our job description library, which contains examples for 800+ positions and professions. Our job description examples include a job summary with duties and responsibilities and skills and requirements, which can be personalised for your job vacancy.

Job Description Advice - Guidance on How to Personalise an Art Conservator Job Specification

The hiring process and recruiting new employees to fill your key roles requires a degree of personalisation if you are to attract the best employees in a competitive employment market. The right person for a crucial role or more senior roles will likely have other employers targeting them. As your job description will be the first point of contact, you need to nail your pitch and provide the best possible service.

Job Description Tips - Help on formatting an Art Conservator Job Specification

When creating your bespoke description and advert, you should cover and promote these points:

Job title: This should accurately reflect the role and include keywords that top talent might be using to search for jobs.

Job duties: The day to day duties, such as administrative tasks, which vary depending on the company and inform the candidate if they can complete the role.

Technical skills: These are the hard skills required through training, such as proficiency with Microsoft Office.

Soft skills: These include the interpersonal skills and general abilities the right candidates will possess. For example, the competency to prioritise multiple tasks, handle customer queries and customer complaints, work alone, or build a good relationship with coworkers.

The company's culture: Highlighting your company culture and values ensures employees thrive and find outstanding job satisfaction. Candidates that are not the right fit won’t waste their time completing the application process, meaning you can focus on qualified individuals and hire in a more timely manner.

Career progression: Including the career path will entice candidates looking for career growth. 

Training and development programs: Smaller companies may need employees with previous experience or provide educational assistance over internal training offered by larger organisations with more significant resources. 

Employee benefits: Compensation and benefits often fail to appear in job ads and while you may want to hold your cards close to your chest, failing to include them is a mistake. Consider answering common questions, such as working hours and paid leave. Researching the average salary for the role in these early stages will ensure you don’t waste your interviewer’s and the candidate’s time.

Skill gaps: Your company may need to bring in new skills beyond those required to complete the key role and duties. Thinking on an organisational level can be beneficial when contemplating skills diversity.

Legal requirements: Ensure your job advert and description does not ask for inappropriate or discriminatory personal details, such as age, marital status, or religion.

How to Hire an Art Conservator

Once you have selected your Job Description download it or convert it to a Job Advert. From here you can post/advertise your job across our network of job boards. If you wish to use the job description for a CV Template click through for advice and Convert to a CV

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