Conservation Technician – Ford Conservation Center
Listing Start Date: July 3, 2025Expires: September 3, 2025n
The Nebraska State Historical Society is seeking an organized and team-oriented Conservation Technician with excellent customer service skills to support the Gerald R. Ford Conservation Center in Omaha. As a member of the conservation team, this position is accountable for a variety of administrative activities, coordinating with Center clients, and aiding conservation staff. This position will play an integral role in the operation of a regional conservation facility that serves museums, libraries, universities, corporations, private individuals, and state and federal agencies.
The Nebraska State Historical Society (NSHS) is a statewide educational institution that connects people to the past through the conservation center, a library and research center, interpretive sites and museums, and the state archeology and historic preservation offices.
Look at what we have to offer!
• 13 paid holidays
• Vacation and sick leave that begin accruing immediately
• Military leave
• 156% (that’s not a typo!) state-matched retirement
• Tuition reimbursement
• Employee assistance program
• 79% employer paid health insurance plans
• Dental and vision insurance plans
• Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government
• Wide variety and availability of career advancement as the largest and most diverse employer in the State
• Opportunity to be part of meaningful work and make a difference through public service
• Training and Development based on your career aspirations
• Fun, inviting teammates
• A safe and secure environment
At the State, we stand by our core values of treating others with dignity and respect, acting ethically in all situations, and creating an environment where our customer is our top priority. Apply to join our team today!
Job Duties: Complete regular lab and building maintenance duties, including but not limited to: laundry, cleaning of lab glassware, and vacuuming. Prepare content for agency intranet and social media to highlight Conservation team projects. Coordinate replies and responses to general Ford Center email and phone call requests. Assist conservators with client appointments and facilitate scheduling of lab tours. Assist with conservation-related tasks, such as basic object cleaning, housing preparation, writing reports, and some photography. Greet clients upon initial arrival and take in deliveries; coordinate safe object retrievals and returns with clients. Prepare stock chemical solutions, monitor supply levels for labs/building, and maintain equipment as directed. Assist with management of the Ford Center’s integrated pest management program and daily environmental monitoring. Work with other History Nebraska departments; perform other related duties as apparent or assigned.
Requirements / Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications: At least one year of post high school coursework or experience in: administration, office management, accounting, finance, planning, policy analysis and implementation, administrative/management analysis, operations research, program evaluation, research, or similar fields or in a field related to the programs or functions of the employing agency.
Preferred Qualifications: Experience with conservation examination and treatment of 3-D objects, paper works, or paintings, including knowledge of standard conservation practices such as handling, storage, and cataloging. Experience working in an office setting. Interest and/or past experience in history, art, conservation, museums, or library work. A background in studio art and associated strong hand skills.
Other: Regular and Reliable attendance is required.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
• Strong organizational skills and high attention to detail necessary to maintain thorough electronic and paper documentation.
• Flexibility, creativity, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to identify and achieve goals and objectives and meet multiple competing priorities.
• Ability to communicate and work effectively and inclusively with diverse and varied people and groups in writing, by phone, and in person.
• Experience using business computer and communication system and products such as Google Workspace and Microsoft Office Suite, and ability to adapt to other technologies quickly.
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative and to work both independently and as a member of a team.
• Ability to complete repetitive tasks for long periods of time, while sitting or standing.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs.