Associate Objects Conservator – RLA Conservation – Los Angeles, CA
Listing Start Date: May 15, 2025Expires: July 15, 2025n
RLA Conservation (RLA) seeks a highly motivated individual for the position of Associate Objects Conservator based in our 6,000 sq. ft. Los Angeles, CA office, which includes separate office, lab, and warehouse space. This permanent, full-time staff position will be responsible for the in-studio and on-site treatment of objects, examination, technical analysis, documentation, cost estimating, project and technician management, research as well as assisting with the conservation of outdoor sculpture in a team setting. There are often opportunities for cross-disciplinary team working such as public art projects, murals, and architectural elements. Periodic travel of no more than 2-weeks at a time will be required depending on project need. A competitive salary and benefits package is offered as well as relocation assistance.
Requirements
Applicants must have a Master’s degree from a recognized graduate conservation training program. A minimum of 3 – 5 years of post-graduation experience in objects conservation is preferred, though professionals with 1-2 years of post-graduate experience and exceptional abilities will be considered. Professional Association status with the American Institute of Conservation is preferred. If a candidate has the prerequisite experience to obtain Professional Association status, it is expected that the individual obtains said status within one (1) year of employment. Excellent project management, written, verbal and interpersonal skills are required. The company’s main focus is the conservation of contemporary and modern art although objects from all periods and materials are treated.
Demonstrable skill and ability to prioritize and work independently as well as in collaboration with other team members and outside contractors to meet deadlines on multiple projects is essential. A broad knowledge of materials, cultures/art history, and documentation and research techniques are expected. Familiarity and conservation experience with historic materials (metals, ceramics, stone, painted surfaces, etc.) is required. Familiarity and conservation experience with modern materials (i.e., plastics), and time-based artworks is desired, as is experience with supervision or mentoring of conservation staff.
Ideally the conservator should possess a wide range of hand skills, in-painting skills, and the ability to perform physical tasks in a range of outdoor climates/settings. The following is required:
– Strong communication and organizational skills
– Experience in research with contemporary art materials and issues.
– Treatment practice and documentation must be of an exceptionally high standard.
– Excellent written skills in English and ability to compose detailed reports.
– Working independently, as well as part of a cohesive team in a fast-paced environment.
– Familiarity with MS Office and Adobe Creative Suites
– Ability to work on ladders, scaffolding, and other heights
– A valid driver’s license and car
– Ability to work overnight (infrequent requirement)
– Ability to pass government background checks and/or drug screenings based on our client’s requirements
– Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
– Ability to sit and/or stand for prolonged periods of time
– Ability to perform repetitive and controlled hand/arm movements for prolonged periods of time
– Photography skills for documentation
– Overnight travel is required as part of this position and may be out of state. Duration of travel is typically one week, though some projects may occasionally require longer periods of travel, not to exceed two weeks at a time per month unless agreed upon by the staff member. Frequency of travel is client/project dependent, but is no more than once per month unless agreed upon by the staff member.
– Authorization to work in the United States. Unfortunately, at this time RLA is unable to sponsor employment-based visas.
The following is desired but not required:
– Equipment operation including aerial platforms, motorized tools, and other machinery
– Other tool skills, including airbrushing, patination and woodworking, for example