Aircraft Conservator

Role overview

National Museums Scotland is seeking a motivated Aircraft Conservator to join the Collections Service Team at the National Museum of Flight in East Lothian. This is a permanent full-time role focused on preserving outdoor aircraft and supporting the care of science and technology collections.

Working pattern and location

The post is full time at 35 hours per week, worked Monday to Friday. The role is fully on-site at the National Museum of Flight in East Lothian, Scotland.

About the organisation

National Museums Scotland is among Europe’s leading museum groups, with a large and highly varied collection. The organisation values creativity, inclusion, collaboration and forward thinking.

What the role involves

You will concentrate on the condition, upkeep and conservation planning for outdoor aircraft, helping improve their overall state through well-managed conservation activity. The work requires comfort with outdoor conditions in spring and summer, the ability to work at height, and a strong grounding in conservation health and safety.

The role calls for hands-on technical ability, precise manual work, and sound judgement when treating different objects and materials. You will be expected to apply conservation knowledge independently, develop practical solutions, and support or lead projects that improve understanding and good practice.

Experience and background

The ideal candidate will have worked with science and technology collections, or with closely related material types. A background in metals, industrial objects, or horology would be especially relevant. You should also have experience running conservation projects to deadlines, a strong understanding of material condition and treatment options, and awareness of professional conservation standards. A conservation qualification is preferred, although comparable professional experience will also be considered.

Responsibilities

• Plan, carry out, and oversee conservation work that improves understanding and practice.
• Use your own expertise to identify and apply suitable conservation treatments for science and technology objects, with limited supervision.
• Follow all relevant health, safety, and access requirements, and work in line with National Museums Scotland policies, procedures, and guidance.

Skills and experience sought

• Strong practical conservation ability with excellent manual dexterity and mechanical aptitude.
• Experience managing projects and delivering work to agreed timelines.
• Awareness of hazardous substances that may be present in science and technology collections.
• Clear documentation and reporting skills.
• Ability to work safely at height and outdoors.
• Knowledge of conservation best practice and treatment planning.

Benefits

• Employer pension contribution of 28.97% into the Civil Service Pension Scheme, on top of salary.
• Annual leave of 28.5 days, increasing to 33.5 days after 5 years of service, plus 8 additional paid public holidays.
• Complimentary admission to national and international museums and exhibitions.
• Wellbeing support, including a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
• Access to the full benefits package from the first day of employment.

Additional information

The closing date for applications is 17 July 2026. The selection event is expected to take place on 31 July 2026. Applicants are encouraged to review the role attachments for the full job details.