Chief Conservator, Brown University, Providence, RI
Posted November 30, 2017
The primary responsibility of the Chief Conservator is to preform and manage the conservation of a wide range of paper-based materials, with a focus on the Library’s rare printed items, manuscripts and cartographic materials. In addition, this position coordinates the activities of the Conservation and Preservations Services unit, providing conservation and preservation for both circulating and special collections. The scope of activities include book and manuscript treatment, exhibition and loan support, disaster relief, environmental monitoring and facilities planning support.
Partnering with Library staff, as well as campus-wide and external constituents, the Chief Conservator will contribute to the management of large scale high-profile conservation and preservation projects that have library-and university-wide impact on the development, access, usability, and preservation of scholarly content in support of teaching, learning, research and creative expression. The Chief Conservator will contribute to related projects and represent BUL in regional/national/international projects and initiatives. He/She will collaborate closely with special collections curators and the Director of Special Collections and will report to the Associate University Librarian for Access Services and Collection Management.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree and formal training in paper conservation at the graduate level, or equivalent combination of apprenticeship, advanced courses, internships and experience
- MLS or equivalent degree
- Minimum of five years of experience in conservation work
- Experienced and demonstrated skill in supervision, including hiring, orienting, training and development, organizing workloads, delegating responsibility, providing guidance and direction
- Excellence in performing complex conservation treatments on a broad range of library and archival materials as demonstrated through a portfolio
- Demonstrated record of managing and designing projects and bringing them to a conclusion in a timely fashion
- Experience working collaboratively and independently with varied groups within a complex organization and rapidly changing, team environment
- Knowledge of the history of book and paper making, bookbinding techniques, and the history and manufacture of other library materials; and the nature and causes of book and paper deterioration
- Knowledge of and adherence to professional ethical practice in conservation
- Working knowledge of chemistry as it applies to library materials
- Excellent oral and written communication skills, strong interpersonal and organizational skills
including demonstrated ability to prepare reports and procedural documentation
To Apply: please visit Brown University’s career opportunities website at: https://brown.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/staff-careers-brown/jobs and reference REQ141229
Complete an application online, attach documents, and submit for immediate consideration. Documents should include cover letter, resume, and the names, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses of three references. Review of applications will continue until the position is filled.
Brown University is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic global community; as an EEO/AA employer, Brown considers applicants for employment without regard to, and does not discriminate on the basis of, gender, race, protected veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.