Mellon Fellow in Photograph Conservation

The Art Institute of Chicago shares its singular collections with our city and the world. We collect, care for, and interpret works of art across time, cultures, geographies, and identities, centering the vision of artists and makers. We recognize that all art is made in a particular context, demanding continual, dynamic reconsideration in the present. We are a place of gathering; we foster the exchange of ideas and inspire an expansive, inclusive understanding of human creativity.

Please click on the links below to view our competitive, comprehensive benefits package: 

• Hiring Range
• Benefits 
• PTO Overview 
• Job Classification: Fellow Salaried 
• Grade Level: 6

The closing date for submission of applications is March 3, 2025.

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT

Responsible for the treatment, research, and long-term preservation of over 300,000 works of art in the Art Institute’s collections, the Department of Conservation and Science is integral to the museum’s mission to safeguard the world’s artistic and cultural legacy for future generations. Founded in 1956 with a single paintings conservator, the department has grown to a staff of over 30 specializing in nine disciplines organized in five divisions:

• Objects and Textiles
• Paintings and Frames
• Paper and Books
• Photography and Media
• Scientific Research

Members of the department contribute to the advancement of the field and the broader awareness of conservation issues through multiple avenues of specialized and societal dissemination, are involved in object-based teaching and scientific research, and actively support the education of future conservation and museum professionals.

ABOUT THE POSITION

Under the supervision of the Director of Paper, Photography and Media Conservation, the Fellow participates in a wide range of activities in the Department of Conservation and Science and gains experience in all aspects of caring for photographic objects while working in a large museum setting. The Fellowship provides excellent hands-on experience on the examination, documentation, analysis, and treatment of a wide range of historic and contemporary photographs as they are prepared for loans, exhibitions, and storage. Opportunities also exist for research and additional professional development activities.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• With mentorship from the Director of Paper, Photography and Media Conservation, designs and carries out basic to advanced treatment strategies for in-house exhibitions, loans and on-going care of the collection.
• Completes written and photographic documentation on objects for treatment and general conservation documentation and shares copies in the museum's collection management database and digital asset management system in accordance with the highest archival and digital preservation standards.
• Completes incoming and outgoing examinations and condition reports on objects entering the museum for loan or acquisition consideration.
• Identifies and confirms photographic processes for inclusion in the museums database and publications.
• Measures and records light level conditions in the photography galleries.
• Works with Conservation Scientists on scientific analysis of collection items.
• Conducts publishable long-term research projects.
• Helps train staff and interns in proper handling of photographs.
• Helps maintain supplies and equipment in conservation laboratory; maintain inventory of lab chemicals and update MSDS as needed.
• Supports the museum in its commitment to creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable institution; treats colleagues and visitors fairly and respectfully, recognizing the value that diverse backgrounds and perspectives bring to our organization.
• Maintains confidentiality.

The closing date for submission of applications is March 3, 2025.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Master’s Degree required
• Graduate of a recognized conservation-training program with a clear specialization in photographic materials or 1 - 5 years equivalent experience doing photograph conservation in a museum setting
• Must be up to date with industry standards in examining and documenting works of art
• Demonstrate exceptional competency reading and writing in English

CLOSING STATEMENT

The Art Institute of Chicago is an Equal Opportunity Employer that recruits, hires and promotes qualified individuals without regard to race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, ancestry, veteran status or citizenship. The Institute complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact the Department of Human Resources at apply_help@artic.edu.

UNION INFO

This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by AFSCME Council 31.