Position: Objects Conservator at the IMA

The Indianapolis Museum of Art seeks an experienced and highly motivated objects conservator to become Conservator of Objects and Variable Art.  This full-time staff position will be responsible for leading the IMA’s active objects conservation efforts for its significant collections of African, American, Asian, European, contemporary art and design arts that span 5,000 years of history.  Additionally, art and  design are featured at The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres; Oldfields–Lilly House and Gardens, a historic Country-Place-Era estate and National Historic Landmark on the IMA grounds; and the Miller House and Garden in Columbus, Indiana, one of the country’s most highly regarded examples of mid-century Modernist residences (http://www.imamuseum.org/).The Conservator of Objects and Variable Art will perform all aspects of caring for the IMA’s diverse collection.  Responsibilities will include preventive care, examination, documentation, treatment, exhibition and loan preparation, research, advocacy and outreach.  The Conservator will work closely with the Contemporary Department and living artists (or their studios/ foundations, etc.) on the creation/fabrication, documentation, and preservation of commissioned indoor and outdoor works of art.  All conservation related activities will conform to national and international codes of ethics and standards for care.The IMA has well-equipped conservation labs for paintings, paper, objects, and textiles conservation, along with a state-of-the-art conservation science laboratory (http://www.imamuseum.org/art/conservation, http://www.imamuseum.org/research/conservation-science). The Conservator of Objects and Variable Art will share a conservation technician with Textile Conservation.Applicants must have a master’s degree from a recognized conservation training program and eight years of experience following graduation is preferred.  Priority will be given to applicants able to work in the United States with extensive museum experience and a record of publication and talks/posters at professional conferences. A broad knowledge of materials, cultures/ art history, and documentation and research techniques along with demonstrable skill in object conservation practice is essential.  Knowledge of and conservation experience with modern materials (i.e. plastics), electronic, video, and variable artworks is preferred.  Experience with supervision and mentoring of conservation staff, graduate interns and pre-program interns is important. The successful candidate will report to the Chief Conservator and must be able to communicate and work well with other conservators and departmental staff; conservation scientists; curators; registrars; storage, design, and installation staff; and a variety of other museum employees in furthering the mission of the museum.A competitive salary and benefits package is offered.  To apply, please e-mail your resume, a letter of interest, and the names and contact information for three professional references to: hr@imamuseum.org, by August 22, 2014.  The position will remain open until filled.  The IMA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.