Conservator
What is the work like?
Conservators keep works of art and other historic objects in good condition by preserving them and making sure they are looked after in the right way.
As a conservator you could deal with a wide range of objects, but would usually specialise in one area, such as fine art, books, textiles, archaeology or industrial exhibits. Your work could include:
- examining objects to identify any damage and its cause
- preserving them to stop deterioration and make sure they stay in good condition
- restoring them to make sure that original characteristics are not lost
- making sure that storage and display conditions protect objects from damage from light, humidity, temperature or air pollution
- keeping written and photographic records of your work.
You would use a range of scientific methods, materials and equipment.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
You would usually need a degree, followed by a postgraduate qualification in conservation. Degrees in conservation are available, but other subjects like fine art, ceramics and glass, textiles or science (particularly chemistry) are also useful.
Visit the Institute of Conservation website for a list of courses. You should check directly with course providers for their entry requirements.
For most courses you would need to have work experience in a museum, or other historic site. Large museums usually have lots of requests for volunteering, so it may be best to try smaller local museums. You can find addresses in The Museums Yearbook, which is published each year by the Museums Association. You should be able to find the book in reference libraries.
See the Museums Association website for advice on finding opportunities for volunteering.
What further training and development can I do?
Once you have completed a conservation qualification, you would need several years’ experience before you are considered fully competent as a conservator. One-year internships are one way in which you can get supervised practical experience in the workplace. These are run by some major museums. You can find addresses of museums in The Museums Yearbook, which should be available in reference libraries.
You would need to update your skills and techniques on an on-going basis. If you work in a museum or heritage site you may be able to do specialist training.
Area museums councils run a variety of in-service courses. Visit the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council website for details of the councils
Joining an organisation such as the Institute of Conservation, the British Association of Paintings Conservators-Restorers or the Guild of Master Craftsmen would be useful for making contacts, and developing your skills and knowledge by attending seminars, conferences and courses.
You could also join the Institute of Conservation Professional Accreditation of Conservator-Restorers (PACR) scheme. This is a professional membership qualification, which would assess your professional competence against set standards.
If you complete the PACR scheme, your details would be listed in the register of conservators. The register is available on the Institute of Conservation website for use by organisations and members of the public looking for reputable conservation or restoration services.
Where can I go for more information?
11 Southwark StreetLondon
SE1 1RQ
Helpline: 0800 093 0444
London
E1 6NW
Lewes
East Sussex
BN7 1XU
Tel: 01273 478449
Southampton Row
London
WC1B 4EA
Tel: 020 7273 1444
Downstream Building
1 London Bridge
London
SE1 9BG
Tel: 020 7785 3807
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser at learndirect Careers Advice, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- New entrants can start on around £18,000 a year.
- Experienced conservators can earn between £20,000 and £35,000.
Figures are intended as a guideline.
What are the hours and working conditions?
In the public sector you would usually work 37 to 40 hours a week, Monday to Friday. In the private sector, your hours would depend on the amount of work you have, and you may need to work to deadlines.
You would usually be based in a laboratory or workshop, although you would have to do some conservation work, such as stone masonry, on site. You may spend time in museums, art galleries and private houses, giving advice on collections.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- good practical skills
- normal colour vision
- a patient and methodical approach
- attention to detail
- artistic, technological and scientific ability
- sound business skills (if self-employed)
- good communication skills, with the ability to explain sometimes complex issues to clients.
What opportunities are there?
You could work in either the public or private sector. Many conservators work in museums, but there has been an overall decrease in vacancies, as work is often contracted out to freelancers. Many jobs are offered as short-term contracts.
You could also work for the National Trust, English Heritage and the heritage bodies in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Some cathedrals have studios to care for their stained glass, libraries and wall paintings.
You may need to move away from practical work into a management job to gain promotion. As an experienced conservator you could become self-employed.
You may find the following links useful for job vacancies and general reading (links open in new window):
Museum Jobs
Arts Hub
The Guardian
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