Preventive Conservator (Environmental Monitoring System)

About Imperial War Museums and the Role

Imperial War Museums (IWM) is dedicated to preserving collections that illuminate the impact of conflict and its influence on our world. The institution provides a collaborative and supportive environment where expertise is appreciated and ongoing learning is promoted. The focus is on safeguarding nationally significant collections for research, education, and public exhibitions.

This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute significantly to a major conservation initiative spanning all five IWM sites. As a Preventive Conservator focusing on the Environmental Monitoring System (EMS), you will spearhead the deployment of a cutting-edge EMS to gather critical data, implement tools, and streamline processes aimed at mitigating environmental risks to collections for the foreseeable future.

Responsibilities

• Lead the comprehensive rollout and installation of the new EMS across all IWM locations.
• Oversee the systematic removal of outdated environmental monitoring devices and facilitate the transition to the latest system.
• Collaborate closely with IT, Systems teams, and external vendors to migrate and audit historic environmental datasets.
• Design and execute thorough testing procedures to validate the accuracy and reliability of monitoring data prior to full deployment.
• Interpret environmental data and generate actionable insights to inform preventive conservation strategies.
• Conduct training sessions and provide detailed guidance to staff to enhance their proficiency with the new EMS.
• Utilize environmental monitoring outputs to detect and manage risks related to collections, display areas, and storage conditions.
• Strengthen interdepartmental partnerships to promote uniform environmental monitoring practices and ensure successful implementation.

Qualifications and Experience

• Possess a relevant qualification in preventive conservation, museum studies, or equivalent professional experience.
• Demonstrate strong expertise in preventive conservation techniques, including familiarity with the agents of deterioration.
• Proven experience in managing preventive conservation initiatives and environmental monitoring projects.
• Capability in analyzing environmental metrics and applying insights to guide conservation decisions.
• Effective multitasking skills with a track record of meeting project deadlines.
• Experience adhering to established procedures, policies, and industry standards.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, capable of collaborating across multiple teams.
• Proactive and cooperative problem-solving approach.
• Willingness and availability to travel to different IWM sites when necessary.

Work Environment and Collaboration

The role requires close cooperation with colleagues in Preservation, site teams, IT, and external suppliers to execute a high-profile project affecting all five museum sites. It merges practical project management, technical system implementation, and conservation expertise, necessitating frequent interactions with diverse stakeholders. The position supports a team dedicated to protecting collections and disseminating knowledge throughout the organization to facilitate enduring preservation success.

Success Indicators (First 6–12 Months)

• Successful installation and deployment of the new EMS system across all five IWM locations.
• Establishment of strong working relationships with internal teams, external suppliers, and site personnel.
• Accurate completion of environmental data migration and verification activities.
• Provision of comprehensive training and guidance empowering staff to confidently operate and support the EMS.
• Standardization and embedding of consistent environmental monitoring protocols across the institution.
• Delivery of dependable environmental data and analysis that underpin preventive conservation efforts and minimize risks to collections.