Conservator (Costumes and Textiles)

Overview
The Smithsonian Institution is the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex, with 21 museums and the National Zoo. This position is in the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), a national museum dedicated to the study and exhibition of African American history and culture.

Open and Close Dates
Open date: 03/22/2023
Closed date: 04/04/2023

Responsibilities

Generate timely written and treatment proposals and reports corresponding to textile and costume conservation treatments on the collection. Provide written guidance and input on unit guidelines and procedural guidelines regarding preservation parameters.

Treat, care for, preserve, and research all NMAAHC textile and costume-based materials. Identify and share exhibition guidelines regarding textiles on display to include exhibit environmental parameters and mount and case specifications, and provide team support on special projects.

Engage with curators, the public, artists, studio assistants or estates to foster relationships that support the long‑term care and display of works in the collection.

Communicate with a wide range of audiences on conservation and preservation practices for textile and costume materials. Present at conferences, workshops and symposia.

Work with collection managers to assist with the planning of appropriate storage or textile and costume materials. Ensure that the collection, whether in view, in storage or on loan, is housed in safe environments to minimize shock and vibration, and that environmental levels are maintained. Identify and explain storage and handling improvements to staff and interns, and demonstrate and construct improved housing and handling.

Requirements

Pass pre‑employment background investigation.

May need to complete a probationary period.

Maintain a bank account for direct deposit/electronic transfer.

Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered with Selective Service.

COVID‑19 Vaccination Requirements
For the latest information on the COVID‑19 vaccination requirements and its impact on your application, see the Smithsonian Institution’s Frequently Asked Questions.

Qualifications
Basic Qualification Requirement:

Experience related to the operation or management of a museum or similar collection of valuable objects. Examples include collections management, registration, cataloging, research, preservation, restoration, or conservation of museum material, or other experience related to the position to be filled.

In addition to the Basic Qualification Requirement:

One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least GS‑11 level in the Federal Service. Specialized experience is defined as demonstrated experience applying knowledge of costume and textile materials, fabrication methods, current conservation and preservation practices; providing specifications for exhibits; determining the condition of materials and developing treatment plans; mold and pest remediation; and creating specialized housing; advising on display or lighting requirements and digitally documenting the process.

Experience may include paid, unpaid, volunteer or professional service and will be credited where applicable.

Education:

No basic education requirement.

EEO Statement
The Smithsonian embraces diversity and equal employment opportunity. The Smithsonian does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information.

Hiring Information
Position held: GS‑12; full performance level (GS‑12). Salary range: $94,199 – $122,459 per year. Telework eligible as determined by agency policy. Relocation expenses reimbursed: No.

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