At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver conservation treatments for books and archives, preparing them for digitisation and exhibitions.
- Company: Join a leading organisation dedicated to preserving our cultural heritage.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, hybrid options, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Collaborate with universities and engage in exciting conservation research.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in preserving history while engaging with the public and stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Graduate or postgraduate qualification in book/paper conservation required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
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 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 data required to support decision‐making and to assess impact, e.g., through collection surveys, condition assessments and technical examination.
- Contribute to internal and external stakeholder engagement relating to archive conservation, e.g., through 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.
Qualifications
- A graduate or postgraduate level qualification in book/paper conservation from a UK institution or other jurisdiction.
- PACR (Professional Accreditation of Conservators – Restorers) accredited membership of ICON or a willingness to pursue such accreditation.
Success profile
- Technical / Professional Skills
- B15 – Assessing the stability and condition of archives and records (Level 3)
- B16 – Identifying and evaluating conservation options and strategies (Level 3)
- B17 – Applying interventive conservation measures to archives and records (Level 3)
- B18 – Developing specialist skills and knowledge (Level 3)
Experience
- Experience delivering complex book and archive conservation, including innovative approaches for large archival collections.
- Experience providing training and support for internal and external archive users.
- Experience in public engagement activities, such as giving tours, talks and writing content for publications and social media.
Behaviours
- Working together (Level 3)
- Changing and improving (Level 3)
Working pattern
- 35 hours per week with flexible and hybrid working options depending on the needs of the role.
Security checks
- Successful candidates must complete the Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) before appointment.
Equality statement
- We are committed to equality and inclusion and aim to recruit a diverse workforce that reflects the population of our nation.
Conservator in Edinburgh employer: THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT
As a Conservator at NRS, you will join a dynamic team dedicated to preserving our cultural heritage while enjoying a supportive work culture that values collaboration and innovation. With flexible working options and opportunities for professional development, including training and public engagement activities, NRS is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where your expertise can thrive. Located in a vibrant community, this role offers the chance to make a meaningful impact on the preservation of archives and records.
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, attend industry events, and connect with people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your best conservation work. Include before-and-after photos, project descriptions, and any innovative techniques you've used. This will help you stand out when chatting with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Reach out directly to organisations you admire and express your interest in working with them. A well-timed email can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep learning! Stay updated on the latest conservation techniques and trends. Attend workshops, webinars, or online courses. This not only boosts your skills but also shows potential employers that you're committed to your professional development.
We think you need these skills to ace Conservator in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in book and archive conservation. We want to see how your skills match the specific responsibilities listed in the job description.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t just list your qualifications; demonstrate how you've applied them in real-world situations. We love seeing examples of your innovative approaches to conservation and any training you've provided to others.
Engage with Us:If you have experience in public engagement activities, share that! Whether it’s giving talks or writing for publications, we want to know how you’ve connected with audiences and stakeholders.
Apply Through Our Website:For a smooth application process, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing candidates like you!
How to prepare for a job interview at THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT
✨Know Your Conservation Techniques
Make sure you brush up on the specific conservation treatments relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss your experience with assessing and rehousing archives, as well as any innovative approaches you've used in past projects.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Prepare examples of how you've engaged with both internal and external stakeholders. Whether it's through training sessions or public engagement activities, showcasing your communication skills will be key to impressing the interviewers.
✨Stay Updated on Legislation
Familiarise yourself with current legislation and regulations related to archive conservation. Being able to discuss recent developments shows that you're proactive and committed to best practices in the field.
✨Showcase Team Management Skills
If you've had experience supervising a team, be ready to share specific examples. Discuss how you've supported the development of others, as this role involves managing Preservation Assistants and volunteers.
