Remedial Conservator - Paintings

Job Description

Summary The National Trusts paintings collection is the largest, and one of the most significant collections in the UK. Comprising of over 13,000 works they exemplify British collecting tastes from the fifteenth to twentieth centuries. Many of the paintings stillhang in rooms in which they were displayed historically, some even in spaces or within decorative schemes for which they were first commissioned or collected. These range from works of mainly local interest to some of the greatest masterpieces in the historyof Western painting.We are looking for an Easel Paintings Conservator who is passionate about undertaking conservation treatments and who enjoys sharing stories about the amazing objects they have been privileged to interact with. This is not a traditional conservation spacewhere work is mostly undertaken behind closed doors. The team of conservators deliver treatments in a studio that is open to the public and we actively engage visitors in our cause for conservation, so please note some weekend working is required. What its like to work here The Conservation Studio is set within a magnificent and recently restored 15th century ragstone barn, which is a fabulous mix of contemporary and historical architecture. The barn is in the grounds of Knole and whilst working on National Trust collectionsyou will experience a commanding view of the deer park and house.Reporting to the Senior Conservator for Paintings you will be part of a small team of conservators specialising in different fields, including easel paintings, frames, furniture and objects. The open plan studio is perfect for multi-disciplinary teamwork,where specialists share their skills and expertise to deliver conservation treatments. You will work with colleagues across the Trust, including conservators based in the regions, curators, volunteers, property teams, marketing and engagement specialists. What youll be doing Most of your time will be spent at the studio undertaking aesthetic and structural conservation treatments on easel paintings and there will be opportunities to work on other decorative surfaces. You will have a solid foundation in the conservation of paintings,including an awareness and desirably some experience of basic structural treatments. There is opportunity to develop in role. On occasion you will work at other National Trust properties, which may require overnight stays, activities will include remedialconservation, surveys and estimates.Collaborating with curators and analytical specialists your work will contribute to the identification of materials and techniques. Through the dissemination of your work and the Studios unique public engagement objectives, you will support a strong visitorprogramme focussing on the best of the National Trust. Who were looking for You can view the full role profile for this role in the document attached. You dont need to have all of the knowledge, skills and experience listed in the role profile; this is just to provide a full picture of what is possible in this role. For this positionwere looking for someone who has:

• Formal vocational/professional qualification and relevant conservation experience in the conservation treatment of easel paintings with knowledge of basic structural treatments

• Knowledge of ICONs conservation standards and ethics, and ability to work within them

• Knowledge of health and safety, compliance, risk and COSHH

• Ability to maintain and create accurate documentation and photography, experience of collections management systems

• Ability to manage your time and prioritise tasks

• Developing conservation briefs with clients such as curators, collection managers, regional conservators.

• Experience of participating in public engagement activities, using a range of formats, e.g. social media, filming, presentations, workshops, demonstrations

• Experience of supervising volunteers and students, providing training and guidance that enhances our audience focussed activities

The package The National Trust has the motto For everyone, for ever at its heart. Were working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. Its important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audienceswe serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say were for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.Wherever youre from, and whatever your background, we want to hear from youand it doesnt matter if youre jam first, cream first, or even if you dont like scones at all. Everyone is welcome.Benefits for working at the National Trust include:

• Flexible working whenever possible

• Free parking at most locations

• Free entry to our properties for you, a guest and your children (under 18)

• Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary

Click here to find out moreabout the benefits we offer to support you.