Conservation Fellow at Chrysler Museum Of Art – Norfolk, Virginia

The Chrysler Museum of Art, located at 1 Memorial Place in Norfolk, VA, is renowned for its extensive collection of over 30,000 objects displayed across 50 galleries. The Museum offers a diverse range of art, from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces. A standout feature is its Glass Studio, the only one of its kind in the Mid-Atlantic, where visitors can watch live glassblowing demonstrations and participate in hands-on classes. The Museum's commitment to accessibility is highlighted by its free admission policy, making it a welcoming destination for both art enthusiasts and families.

Job Title:

NEH Conservation Fellow

Division:

Curatorial

FLSA Classification:

Non-Exempt

Reports to:

Conservator

Revision Date:

January 2025

Primary Purpose:

The NEH Conservation Fellow is primarily responsible for the preservation and care of the Museum’s art collection This role involves examining and documenting the condition of various objects and identifying any signs of damage or deterioration. The fellow performs conservation treatments to stabilize and restore artifacts, ensuring their longevity and appearance. Additionally, they implement preventive care measures, such as environmental monitoring and controlling light exposure, to protect the collection from damage. The fellow also engages in research to enhance conservation techniques and educates both the public and museum staff about best practices in the conservation of art.

Key Performance Indicators (KPI):

Job Knowledge, Quality of Work, Communication, Collaboration, Dependability, Safety and Security and Leadership

Essential Functions:

• Examination: Assessing the condition of artworks and documenting their state. Conservation Treatment: Performing treatments to stabilize and restore artworks.
• Preventive Care: Implementing measures to prevent future damage, such as environmental monitoring.
• Research: Researching to improve knowledge of the collection as well as advancing conservation materials and techniques.
• Education: Educating the public and Museum staff about preservation practices. Interacting with the public through in-gallery conservation treatments, talks, and demonstrations.
• Assist in planning and carrying out installations, changing exhibitions, assessments and loans.
• Collaboration: Participate in all departmental activities including documentation, analysis and research on the Museum’s extensive collection.
• Serves as an ambassador for the museum locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally.
• Performs other duties as assigned or required.

Required Education/Experience:

• Masters or bachelor's degree in Conservation, a related field or equivalent experience.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Museum database software.
• Previous Museum or Gallery experience is preferred but not required.

Working Conditions:

• Based in busy environments with frequent interruptions.
• Involves working with various types of hand and power tools.
• Must be meticulous and able to work as part of a team to accomplish challenging tasks.

Physical Requirements:

• Excellent hand skills and the capacity for color matching
• Ability to climb ladders and work at varying heights.
• Capability to lift and carry delicate and awkward items weighing up to 50 lbs. without assistance, heavier items with assistance.
• Intermittent standing, walking, sitting, squatting, stretching, and bending throughout the workday.
• Adequate vision and hearing, or the use of prosthetics to ensure these senses function properly to meet the position's requirements.