Project Conservator
University of Chicago · Chicago
Other
University of Chicago is hiring a Project Conservator in Chicago, Illinois. Posted 10 October 2026. Apply directly on University of Chicago's own careers site — no account needed.
Department
Museum Conservation
About the Department
The Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures Museum was opened to the public in 1931. The majority of ISAC's collections are from its expeditions in West Asia and North Africa during the 1920s, 1930s, and 1940s. A major reinstallation of the Museum, including the construction of a climate-controlled wing for housing collections and archives, took place in the 1990s and early 2000s. A complete renovation of the Museum was completed in 2019 in celebration of ISAC's centennial. The Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures is a unit within the University of Chicago and the name of the corporation is 'The University of Chicago.' The corporation was originally incorporated on September 10, 1890.
Job Summary
The Project Conservator will carry out conservation treatments, technical examination, and research while collaborating closely with curatorial, collections, registration, exhibitions, and academic staff. The position also supports ISAC's broader mission through scholarship, public engagement, grant activities, and the development of best practices in archaeological conservation.
This is a one-year, grant-funded position with the possibility of extension based on project needs and available funding.
The anticipated start date is on or around September 15, 2026.
Responsibilities
Performs conservation treatment and stabilization of the glazed brick façade from the Sin Temple.
Prepares and maintains comprehensive conservation documentation, including written treatment reports, condition reports, and photographic documentation.
Maintains the Conservation Laboratory, including the purchase of new equipment and supplies.
Operates microscopes and analytical instrumentation used in conservation research.
Performs necessary research activities to maintain the standards of the institution regarding conservation procedures.
Demonstrates knowledge of relevant literature and may attend conservation conferences, workshops, symposia, etc.
Ensures proper outreach of the conservation activities by providing public lectures and presentations for museum education, development, and membership support.
Ensures compliance with the ethical guidelines, standards, and professional practices of the American Institute for Conservation (AIC) and the International Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works (IIC).
Writes condition reports and performs other inspection documentation. Ensures proper handling, maintenance, and return of pieces loaned to University museums.
Applies research and analysis pertaining to collections and external funding and participates in the selection of objects for exhibits.
Has a moderate understanding of the conservations budget and laboratory, including the purchase of equipment and supplies. Analyzes priority for pieces in need of treatment and operates microscope and x-ray equipment used to analyze pieces.
Performs other related work as needed.
Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
Work Experience:
Certifications:
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Preferred Qualifications
Education:
M.A. or M.S. in Conservation from a recognized university program is strongly preferred.
Experience:
Experience with archaeological objects is strongly preferred.
Experience working in a museum or archaeological collection.
Approximately five years of professional experience as an objects conservator is strongly preferred.
Technical Skills or Knowledge:
Thorough understanding of modern conservation theory, ethics, laboratory methods, and safe working practices.
Excellent organizational, communication, writing, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
Demonstrated meticulous attention to detail and fine hand skills.
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects independently while meeting deadlines.
Familiarity with museum collections databases.
Experience with analytical techniques such as handheld X-ray fluorescence (XRF), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Raman spectroscopy.
Working Conditions
A hybrid work schedule may be available, depending on project needs.
Must be able to bend, kneel, lift, and work in confined spaces as required for conservation activities.
This position is based at 1155 E. 58th Street, Chicago, Illinois.
Application Documents
Resume/CV (required)
Cover Letter (required)
Contact information for (3) professional references
The University of Chicago uses AI-assisted tools to streamline and augment some recruitment processes; however, AI is not used to make hiring decisions.
When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.
Job Family
Role Impact
Scheduled Weekly Hours
Drug Test Required
Health Screen Required
Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
Pay Rate Type
FLSA Status
Pay Range
The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.
Benefits Eligible
The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.
Posting Statement
The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.
Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.
All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.
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