Mellon Fellow

Mellon Fellow—Conservation

As a highly engaged member of the Conservation team, the Mellon Fellow assists the Museum’s painting, paper, and object conservators in addressing the needs of works in our holdings and collections under the direction of the Chief Conservator 

Qualifications:
A successful candidate will meet many of these requirements and have the desire and capacity to learn the rest on the job.

    Graduate degree in conservation from a recognized conservation training program with a specialization in paintings, paper, time based media or objects
    Demonstrated experience examining collection objects to assess condition and structure, writing conservation reports, documenting condition and treatment activities, and producing conservation documentation photographs
    Knowledge of American Institute for Conservation (AIC) standards
    Proficiency in conservation hand skills and art handling
    Familiarity with both basic and complex conservation treatments
    Basic understanding of preventive conservation best practices including environmental controls and integrated pest management
    Familiarity with a range of scientific analytical techniques and equipment
    Ability to work as part of a team in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
    Strong research and comprehension skills
    Strong written and verbal communication skills

Responsibilities: 

    Carry out research, documentation, and treatments as part of the Museum’s exhibition program, as directed
    Assess condition issues and conservation needs for exhibitions, loans, and acquisitions
    Prepare collections for exhibitions and loans by performing conservation treatments with varying levels of complexity
    Document conservation work through written reports, conservation photography, and scientific analysis
    Pursue research projects including close visual study, scientific analysis, archival research, and collaboration with other institutions as part of Museum’s research goals
    Collaborate with staff across the Museum to achieve conservation goals and meet deadlines
    Maintain a safe work space and follow best practices for using and disposing of chemicals, particularly organic solvents and heavy metals
    Participate in general conservation activities including giving tours, maintaining gallery and storage spaces, and updating conservation records
    Perform preventive conservation tasks such as recording environmental monitoring and integrated pest management
    Order supplies
    Other duties as assigned

90% of this position is related to direct care of the collection as defined by the AAM.

Start date: Immediately; this is a two-year position, with the option to continue for a third year.

Department: Conservation

Reports to: Chief Conservator

Position type: Full-time 

Union status: UAW

FLSA status: Non-exempt 

Schedule: 35 hours per week, Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm

Apply online:  

If you have questions about our online application system, please get in touch with us at job.application.questions@brooklynmuseum.org
 

• Carry out research, documentation, and treatment of paintings as part of the Museum's priorities and exhibition program, as directed
• Produce and maintain technical documentation
• Assist in evaluating paintings for loan and exhibition, working with registrars, art handlers, designers, Collections, Education, Development, and Curatorial staff