Conservator (Technician) Jobs

Minimum Requirements:

• Grade 12 plus a National Diploma in Conservation, Museum Studies, Archaeology/Art History, or a related field (NQF level 6).
• 3-4 years of practical experience in a museum or conservation laboratory.

Primary Function:

• To ensure the long-term preservation and care of museum collections by using preventive and interventive conservation practices. This includes supporting exhibitions and loans, and working with staff to protect cultural heritage according to professional standards.

Key Performance Areas:

• Help with daily operational planning for the sub-section.
• Support improvements in processes for better efficiency.
• Apply preventive and remedial measures to protect collections from damage and deterioration.
• Perform conservation treatments to stabilize and preserve objects using ethical and reversible methods.
• Assist in preparing and installing exhibitions to display objects safely.
• Manage the conservation side of incoming and outgoing loans to keep objects safe.
• Monitor and control environmental conditions in storage and exhibition areas for optimal preservation.
• Manage and control assets and resources according to policies and procedures.
• Carry out governance and risk management to avoid issues and ensure success.
• Build effective relationships and communication with stakeholders to meet their needs.
• Handle administrative tasks for daily responsibilities.
• Keep accurate conservation records and contribute to reporting.

Leading Competencies:

• Environmental Monitoring: Ability to use tools like data loggers, hygrometers, and light meters.
• Object Handling: Skills in safely handling, packing, and transporting fragile or valuable items.
• Conservation Treatment: Expertise in cleaning, stabilizing, and repairing objects with proper techniques.
• Analytical Thinking: Ability to assess object conditions and suggest suitable conservation actions.
• Communication: Clear written and verbal skills for reports, teamwork, and training.
• Attention to Detail: Precision in documentation, treatments, and monitoring.

Core Competencies:

• Preventative Conservation Principles: Knowledge of environmental monitoring, pest management, and risk assessment.
• Conservation Ethics and Standards: Understanding of ethical guidelines, such as reversibility and minimal intervention.
• Material Science: Basic knowledge of materials like paper, textiles, metals, and ceramics, and how they deteriorate.
• Documentation Standards: Skills in condition reporting, treatment records, and digital systems.
• Health and Safety: Awareness of safe practices, chemical handling, and emergency procedures.
• Museum Standards: Knowledge of museum policies, collection care, and exhibition needs.

Deadline: 18th November 2025