Paper Conservator

Job purpose

The Paper Conservator will be responsible for carrying out conservation treatments and preventive care for paper-based collections, including items owned or borrowed by the department. The role covers prints, drawings, watercolors, wallpapers, albums, sketchbooks, original artworks, and archival materials, along with ensuring that outsourced conservation work meets quality standards.

Key accountabilities

Conservation operations

• Work with collections teams to review and help shape conservation policies, standards, and procedures.
• Support the planning, tracking, and delivery of the annual remedial and preventive paper conservation programme.
• Lead paper conservation projects, including research and treatment of permanent collections, and help set priorities for conservation research.
• Carry out conservation treatment and preventive care for paper collections, including object treatment, preservation work, and related administrative tasks.
• Advise on how paper and photograph collections should be installed, displayed, and stored for safe long-term preservation.
• Stay current on conservation methods and emerging practices through ongoing research and professional training.
• Apply recognised conservation standards and work with engineers, conservators, and security teams to define climate, lighting, and security requirements for the safe display of artworks.
• Contribute to maintenance, cleaning, and other external contract specifications linked to the preventive conservation strategy when needed.
• Identify tasks suitable for outsourcing and monitor the quality of outsourced conservation work.
• Assist with the safe movement of paper-based collections by completing condition checks, preparing conservation records, advising on packing and crate requirements, and supporting transport, installation, de-installation, exhibitions, loans, and courier handling when necessary.
• Occasionally supervise interns, volunteers, and newer team members in handling, mounting, caring for, and storing paper-based and photograph objects from the collections.
• Deliver presentations and talks to both general and specialist audiences.

Reports and database

• Prepare condition reports for proposed acquisitions or loans involving paper-based materials as required.
• Maintain conservation records in the collection management system, including photographs, condition assessments, treatment proposals, and treatment completion reports.
• Compile research reports and make them available to all teams and individuals involved in handling owned or borrowed artworks.

Policies, processes, and procedures

• Follow all collection-related policies, procedures, and instructions to ensure work is completed consistently and under control.

Collaboration

• Work with internal and external stakeholders connected to paper conservation to improve information flow and increase awareness in relevant areas.

Day-to-day operations

• Carry out daily tasks assigned by the line manager within the collections section to support continuity and high-quality output.
• Provide regular updates to the Senior Conservator Unit Head on activities, issues, challenges, and any mitigation or resolution steps.

Environment, health, and safety

• Follow all EHS requirements by reporting incidents and hazards promptly, using natural resources responsibly, and helping maintain a safe and healthy workplace.

Change management

• Contribute to a culture that supports change by taking a hands-on approach to new opportunities, helping develop new initiatives, meeting targets, and demonstrating strong performance behaviours.

Working relationships

Internal: Culture Sector.

External: Key vendors and suppliers; government and educational institutions; international institutions.

Qualifications and experience

A BA or MA degree in paper and photography conservation, library science, arts, culture, or a similar related discipline is required.

Experience expectations are as follows: candidates with a BA degree should have 3 to 4 years of experience in paper or photography conservation, while candidates with an MA degree should have 2 to 3 years of experience in the same field.

Competencies

Core knowledge

• Strong understanding of conservation theory and techniques for books, paper, and photographic materials, as well as conservation ethics and principles.
• Working knowledge of art history; familiarity with the history of books and Islamic art is an advantage.
• Good command of museum collection management standards, documentation systems, and professional conservation guidance.

Functional strengths

• Hands-on practical ability.
• Comfortable working independently and as part of a team.
• Capable of planning, prioritising, and managing several conservation projects while meeting deadlines.
• Strong written and spoken English communication skills.
• Interest in continued professional development.

Additional information

This position is based in the United Arab Emirates and is a full-time, onsite role.