Kress Conservation Fellowship in Objects Conservation (1 Year)
The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art is located in Sarasota, Florida, and is a department of Florida State University. Learn more about The Ringling at https://www.ringling.org/about-ringling/careers.
Responsibilities
The Samuel H. Kress Conservation Fellow in Objects Conservation, is a full-time, 12-month visiting A&P appointment in the Conservation department at The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art. Under the supervision of the Conservator of Sculpture and Decorative Arts and the Chief Conservator, and in accordance with the AIC Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice, the Fellow conducts conservation examination, study, documentation, and treatment of three-dimensional objects and occasionally other objects as required.
Conducts physical examination and documentation of objects in The Ringling’s permanent collections, for exhibitions and rotations, and for possible acquisition with oversight from the Conservator of Sculpture and Decorative Arts. Completes physical condition surveys of objects and assists in treatment planning. Participates in periodic inspections of works of art. Completes conservation and restoration procedures of minor to major complexity on objects under the supervision of the Conservator of Sculpture and Decorative Arts. Operates specialized equipment such as digital cameras, stereo binocular microscope, polarizing light microscope, ultraviolet lamps, and others as required.
Performs tasks such as examination, testing, consolidation, surface cleaning, assembly, loss compensation, and inpainting. Makes recommendations to the Conservator of Sculpture and Decorative Arts regarding conservation requirements for works of art. Completes special projects, including treatment of marble busts in the collection.
Collaborates within the Collections team, with other Ringling departments, and with other Institutions to ensure the safe display, storage, dusting, and movement of art objects. Provides guidance regarding appropriate levels of light, temperature, and relative humidity. Recommends safe packing methods for art being stored or transported and advise on hanging and display systems. Implements preventative conservation measures. Prepares objects for display, exhibition, loan, photography, or storage. Participates in emergency preparedness and response activities as required.
Prepares detailed written and photographic documentation of the materials, structure, condition, and conservation treatments for works of art in object files and in The Museum System (TMS). Maintains detailed records and prepares final treatment reports. Performs digital photography, recording condition and various stages of treatment, to create a permanent documentary record, as well as image processing and management.
Assists with the administrative functions of Conservation Laboratory. Ensures Work and Environmental Safety laws, policies and procedures are followed. Receives and assists with inventory and maintenance of equipment, parts, supplies, office supplies, and other materials for laboratory. Makes recommendations for the purchase of new equipment and the modification/replacement of current equipment. Performs routine/preventative maintenance on lab equipment.
May make presentations to staff on conservation-related projects or other subjects. Attends at least one professional conference, symposium, or workshop as approved by the Chief Conservator.
Traveling nationally or internationally when necessary as a courier or serving as a virtual courier based on the needs of the Museum. Courier training is required prior to the incumbent serving in this capacity. Other work-related travel may also be required. Performing other related duties as assigned.
Important skills relevant to this role include:
- Excellent speaking and writing skills
- Excellent attention to detail and manual dexterity
- Ability to work successfully, both independently and in collaboration with others
- Ability to prioritize and organize work effectively to meet deadlines
Qualifications
Please know that fellowships are limited to graduates of graduate conservation programs in the U.S. and Canada, or to U.S. citizens graduating from graduate-level conservation programs abroad. The selection of a Fellow must be approved by Foundation for Advancement in Conservation.
Education
- Master’s Degree in Conservation
Preferred Qualifications
- Training and experience in objects conservation
- Familiarity with a variety of material and object types
- Experience working in a museum environment and having knowledge of museum conservation practice
FSU Total Rewards
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Use our interactive tool to calculate Total Compensation options based on potential salary, benefits and retirement contributions, earned leave, and other employment-related perks.
How To Apply
If qualified and interested in a specific job opening as advertised, apply to Florida State University at https://jobs.fsu.edu. If you are a current FSU employee, apply via myFSU > Self Service.
Applicants are required to complete the online application with all applicable information. Applications must include all work history up to ten years, and education details even if attaching a resume.
Your application is not complete until you have uploaded:
Work Sample
A position-relevant resume and cover letter that includes relevant experience, course work, skills, and contact information (phone and/or email)
Considerations
The anticipated start date for the Fellowship will be in September or October 2024.
Rate of Pay: The rate of pay is anticipated to be $50,000 annually and will be based on the education, skills, and experience of the selected candidate. Find out more about our comprehensive benefits package under the “FSU Total Rewards” section.
Working Hours: Monday – Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM with a one-hour meal period. Eligible for a hybrid work schedule. Night or weekend work may be required occasionally based on the needs of The Ringling.
- This position is based in Sarasota, FL
- This is an A&P (Administrative & Professional) position
- This position requires successful completion of a criminal history background check to include fingerprinting
For more information, technical assistance, or should you require accommodations for the application or interview processes, please contact Ringling Human Resources at 941-358-2773 or employment@ringling.org.
Please note that a portfolio with documentation of conservation case studies or projects completed by the applicant may be requested during the review process.
Equal Employment Opportunity
An Equal Opportunity/Access/Affirmative Action/Pro Disabled & Veteran Employer.
FSU’s Equal Opportunity Statement can be accessed at: https://hr.fsu.edu/sites/g/files/upcbnu2186/files/PDF/Publications/diversity/EEO_Statement.pdf.
