The Conservator – Photographs, Film and Sound contributes to the professional conservation, preservation and storage of items from the National Collection. The primary work of this position is the on-going survey, treatment, preservation and maintenance programs for a range of non-paper based photographic film materials including nitrate, acetate, polyester and glass. It also assists with the conservation of paper-based photographs and audio-visual material as required. The conservator assists in the development and implementation of new and improved conservation processes and techniques; documents work performed; supervises staff and volunteers; prepares items for access, storage and exhibition and contributes to team, section and Memorial activities.
Note: Tertiary qualifications in conservation are highly desirable.
Responsibilities:
Under general direction from the Senior Conservator – Photographs, Film and Sound:
- Document, conserve and re-house a range of non paper-based photographic collection material including nitrate, acetate, polyester and glass, identified by curatorial and conservation staff as corporate priorities
- Assist in the conservation of paper-based photographs and audio visual material as required.
- Document all conservation and preservation activities on the Memorial’s Collection Management System
- Undertake scientific analysis, testing and research to determine composition, condition and deterioration processes of the Memorial’s photographic, film and sound collections.
- Manage the work of other staff and volunteers and assist with their training and development.
- Assist in the development of new conservation techniques and practices including assisting with the preservation of audio-visual material as needed.
- Participate in multi-disciplinary teams to deliver conservation programs including gallery maintenance.
- Provide conservation and preservation advice to other sections of the Memorial, professional colleagues and to the public.
- Conduct manual handling tasks including movement of a wide range of objects including but not limited to photographs, film and sound.
