We have an opening for an Objects Conservator or Senior Objects Conservator to join our Objects, Outdoor & Built Heritage Team in Sydney, starting in April/May 2024.  Based at our Sydney labs you will have the opportunity to undertake hands-on conservation treatments combined with project management for a wide variety of site and lab-based projects.  

Salary will be commensurate with experience.  This full-time position is available in April/May 2025.

International Conservation Services (ICS) is Australia’s largest private conservation practice.  We conserve a wide range of cultural and heritage objects and artefacts including paintings, furniture, textiles, paper, sculpture, archaeological artefacts and wall finishes in buildings.

Role

This role features a combination of hands-on conservation and project management of conservation jobs in a wide variety of settings.  Projects include conservation of heritage objects and materials in or on buildings, industrial structures, ruins, monuments, individual objects and public art.  The work may involve working outdoors and working at height (eg. working on a scaffold).

You will be responsible for developing and advising on conservation methodologies in collaboration with team members, quoting, and undertaking all technical aspects of conservation.  Other responsibilities include project planning and implementation, budget and time management, subcontractor coordination, writing project reports and liaising with clients.  You will also support the preparation of tenders and submissions, advise on the management of WHS risks, maintain excellent relations with clients, and contribute to smooth team functioning.

Team

Conservation work undertaken by ICS includes a wide range of work for public institutions, corporate and private clients covering heritage sites, sculptures, monuments and memorials, heritage interiors, artworks, metal objects, organic and plastic objects, ceramics, stone and glass objects, and archaeological and industrial artefacts.  The team also regularly consults on and writes condition assessments, maintenance plans and treatment proposals.

Our ideal candidate will have:

• Hands-on skills as an Objects Conservator, with experience in public art or building conservation being highly regarded
• Strong commitment to ICS values and ethical professional practice
• Strong organisational and time management skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team environment
• Outcomes-focused, with a level-headed approach, helpful attitude and excellent work ethic
• Excellent English written and verbal communication skills, including detailed report writing
• Accuracy and attention to detail
• Sound working knowledge of, and commitment to, safe work practices
• Ability to foster good client relationships
• Membership of an appropriate professional organisation, or eligibility to apply for membership
• Australian citizenship or residency
• Drivers licence

What we offer:

In return for your hard work and professionalism, you will be entitled to a range of benefits including:

• Huge variety of type and scale of projects
• A generous annual professional development allowance
• Training certificates as required
• Mobile phone for business and personal use
• Great working environment and people
• Flexible working arrangements

‍

Submit your application using the online application form on the ICS website.

Your application must include a detailed resume, two referee contacts from current or previous employers, and a covering letter outlining why you believe you are suited for this job. Please refer to the selection criteria on the final page of the position description.

For further information contact Richard Silink at r.silink@icsconservation.com

Applications will be reviewed upon receipt.

‍