Northwestern University Libraries Project Conservator
Northwestern University Libraries Project Conservator
Job ID 47013
Position: Project Conservator
Department: Preservation
Reports to: Chief Conservator
Location: Evanston Campus
Job Summary: Northwestern University Libraries offer a two-year full-time Project Conservator position. Under the supervision of the Chief Conservator, the Project Conservator will work with and assist conservation staff on two major endeavors:
19th Century Bookbinding Material Research Project – Northwestern is working on a multi-year research project to identify green pigments used in 19th century binding and page edges. Research is focused on identifying volumes created using pigments containing arsenic and other heavy metals. Major responsibilities include tracking books, identification of heavy metals using XRF (X-Ray Florescence), housing and labeling books, performing photographic and written documentation, and training staff on safe handling. Experience working with XRF, hazardous materials, and databases is needed. Completion of Environmental Health and Safety Training with NU’s Risk Management Office will be mandatory.
Digitization Projects – Many anticipated digitization projects require both pre- and post- digitization treatments. Treatments may include surface cleaning, flattening of rolled or creased papers, mending of tears, adhesive removal, and disbinding of books. Some treatments may be more complicated and require advanced conservation training. Collections surveys and creation of related reports will be needed.
Qualifications: Master's degree in library science or associated field, with an emphasis on conservation training, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience. Knowledge of current conservation principles and practices, material science, and the history of bookbinding and conservation. Experience working with XRF, hazardous materials, and databases is needed. Demonstrated ability to perform high quality conservation treatments on special collections materials, primarily book and paper, and to communicate effectively about treatment options and decisions. Ability to push/pull loaded book trucks and lift a minimum of 30 pounds.
Salary: Annual stipend starting at $55,000 plus benefits. Northwestern University offers a comprehensive benefits plan, including health care and other benefits. The Project Conservator is eligible to apply for professional development support funding; available amounts vary annually but are typically around $2,000. This is a two-year, full-time faculty librarian, term appointment.
To apply: Applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and the names of three references. Please apply for this position on the NUHR Recruitment Website. In your application, feel free to note which pronouns you use. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Applicants selected for an interview will be asked to submit a portfolio of recent conservation treatments. This position is not eligible for remote work. First consideration for applications received by March 06, 2023.
Please read ALL instructions and make preparations before proceeding to the application page:
Applications will only be accepted via online submission (see link below).
Please prepare all documents in advance as Adobe PDF files, and please be sure all information is entered correctly and accurately (especially names and email addresses), as there will be no opportunity for online revision after your application has been submitted.
Please also prepare a list of names and email addresses for your external academic references; your references will be contacted directly by the online system and invited to upload their letters on your behalf.
All required fields in the application form are marked with an asterisk and must be filled before clicking the “Submit” button.
Be aware that incomplete applications cannot be saved.
Applications accepted here: Apply for Job
The Northwestern campus sits on the traditional homelands of the people of the Council of Three Fires, the Ojibwe, Potawatomi, and Odawa as well as the Menominee, Miami and Ho-Chunk nations. We acknowledge and honor the original people of the land upon which Northwestern University stands, and the Native people who remain on this land today.
Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Click for information on EEO is the Law.
