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- Tasks: Join our Archive Conservation team to preserve Scotland's history through innovative book conservation.
- Company: National Records of Scotland, dedicated to preserving and sharing Scotland's rich heritage.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, supportive environment, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for collaboration and public engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by conserving valuable archives and engaging with the community.
- Qualifications: Graduate in book/paper conservation and experience in archive conservation required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced Book Conservator who can use your knowledge and skills to make a difference at the National Records of Scotland? The National Records of Scotland (NRS) collect, preserve and publish information about Scotland's people and history, to inform current and future generations. We are looking for an experienced book conservator to join the Archive Conservation team, within the Collections Care branch. The Archive Conservation team delivers a comprehensive programme of archive conservation treatment, with the aims of prolonging the life of the collection while also maximising access to the archival records and enhancing the experience of our customers.
This is achieved through a combination of special projects and ongoing programmes, working together with colleagues across the organisation as well as external stakeholders. The work is varied, and includes archive treatment and rehousing, disaster preparedness and response, collection assessment and surveying, exhibition preparation and contributing to conservation policy development. You will actively engage in teaching and mentoring others and knowledge sharing, and you will promote the work of the Collections Care branch across NRS and to a wider professional community. You will be based in Thomas Thomson House but with some time spent in our other buildings in Edinburgh, and the occasional requirement to work off-site at other heritage organisations.
Responsibilities- Deliver a range of book and archive conservation treatments, in order to ready items for digitisation, make items fit for consultation and prepare items for internal exhibitions and external loans.
- Assess and rehouse or treat as required archives at the point when they enter NRS buildings for the first time or are prepared for a temporary or permanent move out of NRS.
- Collect, interpret, and report on the data required to support decision-making and to assess impact, for example, through collection surveys, condition assessments and technical examination.
- Contribute to internal and external stakeholder engagement relating to archive conservation, for example through the provision of training and advice, and with public engagement activities.
- Work with colleagues to disseminate and undertake conservation and heritage science research, which may involve developing collaborations with external organisations such as universities.
- Participate in understanding, interpreting and applying relevant legislation, regulations and practice, keeping abreast of new developments.
- Undertake staff management and development, including assisting with the supervision of a team of three Preservation Assistants, and occasional placement students and volunteers.
- A graduate or postgraduate-level qualification in book/paper conservation, from an institution in the UK or other jurisdiction.
- PACR (Professional Accreditation of Conservators - Restorers) accredited membership of Icon or a willingness to pursue such accreditation.
- Experience of successfully delivering complex book and archive conservation, including finding innovative approaches for the care and conservation of large archival collections.
- Experience of providing training and support for internal and external archive users.
- Experience of public engagement activities such as giving tours and talks and writing content for publications and social media.
- Working together - Level 3
- Changing and Improving - Level 3
How to apply: Apply online, providing a CV and Supporting Statement (of no more than 1000 words) which provides evidence of how you meet the skills, experience and behaviours listed in the Success Profile above. Vacancy closes at 23:59pm on Monday 18 May 2026.
Successful candidates must complete the Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), before they can be appointed. BPSS is comprised of four main pre-employment checks – Identity, Right to work, Employment History and a Criminal Record check (unspent convictions).
We are committed to equality and inclusion and we aim to recruit a diverse workforce that reflects the population of our nation.
Conservator in Edinburgh employer: Scottish Government
Contact Detail:
Scottish Government Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Conservator in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow conservators and professionals in the field. Attend workshops or events where you can meet people from the National Records of Scotland and other heritage organisations. Building connections can open doors for opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio that highlights your best conservation projects. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your experiences and how you've tackled complex conservation challenges. This will make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a project or initiative at NRS that excites you, don’t hesitate to reach out. Express your interest and suggest how you could contribute. This shows your enthusiasm and commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it gives you a chance to tailor your CV and supporting statement specifically to what we’re looking for in a Conservator.
We think you need these skills to ace Conservator in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Supporting Statement: Make sure your supporting statement is tailored to the job description. Highlight how your skills and experiences align with the specific requirements of the Conservator role. We want to see your passion for conservation shine through!
Showcase Your Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on specific projects or tasks that demonstrate your expertise in book and archive conservation. Use examples that reflect your ability to innovate and engage with both internal and external stakeholders.
Be Honest and Authentic: While it’s tempting to use AI tools for assistance, remember that your application should reflect your true experiences and insights. We value authenticity, so be sure to share your genuine journey in conservation.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our organisation there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Government
✨Know Your Conservation Techniques
Make sure you brush up on the specific conservation techniques relevant to book and archive preservation. Be ready to discuss your experience with various treatments and how you've applied them in past roles. This will show your technical expertise and passion for the field.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Since the role involves working with colleagues and external stakeholders, prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated in previous projects. Highlight any training or mentoring experiences you've had, as this demonstrates your ability to work well in a team and share knowledge.
✨Engage with the Audience
If you're asked to present during the interview, think about how you can make your presentation engaging. Use visuals or anecdotes from your past experiences to illustrate your points. This not only keeps the interviewers interested but also showcases your public engagement skills.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific conservation challenges or stakeholder interactions. Think through potential scenarios beforehand and outline your thought process. This will help you demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and adaptability in real-world situations.