Project Specialist (Earthen Architecture Initiative) at The J. Paul Getty Trust – Los Angeles, California

Project Specialist (Earthen Architecture Initiative)

US-CA-Los Angeles

Job ID: 2026-4764
Type: Regular Full-Time
# of Openings: 1
Category: Scientific and Conservation
Getty

Overview

We are seeking an architectural conservator with a keen interest in research, documentation, and training to fill the position of Project Specialist. You will be an integral member of the Getty Conservation Institute’s Buildings and Sites Department, primarily contributing to the Earthen Architecture Initiative and addressing current conservation challenges of regional or international relevance.

This job will be based in our office at the Getty Center in Los Angeles. It will begin in the office full-time and the opportunity to request a telework schedule may be available after an initial period of training and orientation and will be discussed and approved by your supervisor. Typically, staff with approved telework schedules at the Getty Conservation Institute are in the office more than half of the time.

Our Mission

The Getty Conservation Institute (GCI) works internationally to advance conservation practice in the visual arts—objects, collections, architecture, and sites. We serve the conservation community through scientific research, education and training, field projects, and disseminating information. In all our endeavors, we create and deliver knowledge that contributes to the conservation of the world's cultural heritage.

Responsibilities

• Work to build the capacity of partner organizations and the broader conservation community through the creation and dissemination of information and training activities.
• Provide expertise in the planning and development of practical conservation solutions for projects and educational activities to address new challenges and recognized needs of conservation professionals.
• Work in multidisciplinary, international teams with Getty staff, interns, partners, and consultants to develop technical content and implement site-based educational activities for mid-career professionals including material knowledge and practical interventions for the conservation of earthen, brick, and wooden historic buildings and sites.
• Manage activities of components of architectural conservation projects within the Buildings and Sites Department, including planning, documentation, assessment, diagnosis, implementation and monitoring of practical conservation solutions.
• Develop partner and consultant agreements, manage deliverables and deadlines.
• Cultivate a large network of local, regional, and international professionals and institutions, and engage them to develop solutions to challenges encountered by architectural conservation professionals.
• Work with colleagues to organize and participate in experts’ meetings.
• Disseminate project outcomes by publishing findings and presenting results at professional venues.
• Supervise consultants and interns.
• Report to a Senior Project Specialist and will work closely on all aspects of projects.

As part of the Buildings and Sites Department, you will contribute to planning of departmental goals and priorities and collaborate with colleagues on departmental activities.

Your participation in professional development opportunities is encouraged and supported through on-the-job learning, specialized training courses, and participation in professional meetings and workshops.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in conservation, architecture, archaeology, or related discipline. Master's degree in conservation preferred.
• Post-graduate qualifications in built heritage conservation or equivalent practical experience.
• Minimum of 5–10 years of international project management experience working as an architectural conservator in cultural heritage.