Job Posting: Project Conservator at Northwestern University Libraries
Project Conservator
Professional Librarian Vacancy
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.
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.
Northwestern University is a highly selective private university with campuses in Evanston and Chicago, Illinois and in Doha, Qatar. One of the leading private research libraries in the United States, Northwestern University Library serves the educational and information needs of the NU community as well as scholars around the world. Its collection contains more than 7 million volumes, a full array of digital resources, and collections of distinction in Africana, transportation, and 20th-century and contemporary music. Northwestern is a member of the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) and the Big Ten Academic Alliance (BTAA). See more information about University Libraries at: http://www.library.northwestern.edu
General Information
Position Title: Project Conservator
Job Title: Librarian
Department: Preservation
Full Time
Job Status: Open
Available positions: 1
Posted: 6/22/2022
Job Details
Preferred 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.
Information for Librarian Applicants
Library environment:
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: 7/22/2022
Please apply for this position on the faculty recruitment website. As per Northwestern University policy, this position requires a criminal background check. Successful applicants will need to submit to a criminal background check prior to employment.
Benefits
At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful, competitive, high-quality health care plans, retirement benefits, tuition discounts and more!
Work-Life and Wellness
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles. We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care.
WORK/LIFE AND FAMILY RESOURCES
Professional Growth & Development
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you're interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources.
Equal Opportunity
Northwestern requires all staff and faculty to be vaccinated against COVID-19, subject to limited exceptions. For more information, please visit our COVID-19 and Campus Updates website.
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.
In your application, please feel free to note which pronouns you use (For example - she/her/hers, he/him/his, they/them/theirs, etc.).
