Position at Harvard

Collections Conservator
Schlesinger Library, Radcliffe Institute
Harvard University
Cambridge
<URL:http://jobs.harvard.edu/jobs/summ_req?in_post_id=32433>

Full Or Part Time Full-Time

Requisition Number 28882
Salary Grade 056
Date Posted 01-08-2007

Duties And Responsibilities: The primary responsibility of the
Collections Conservator for Schlesinger Library is to manage a
conservation program that ensures the longevity and usability of
Schlesinger Library's extensive general research collections. The
incumbent manages the daily operations of conservation services,
determines conservation priorities, solves problems, and ensures
that conservation services support other critical library
objectives.

Typical Duties and Responsibilities: Establishes and maintains
workflow; Manages Conservation Services staff and operations; Trains
appropriate staff in conservation techniques and procedures, care
and handling of library materials, identification of damaged
materials, and disaster response protocols and techniques; Performs
treatment and housing of library materials: acts as liaison the HUL
Weissman Preservation Center for treatment of Special Collections
materials; Monitors library environment and serves on the
Schlesinger Library Collections Emergency Team; Supports in-house
exhibitions and temporary displays for visiting groups.

Required Education, Experience and Skills Required: MLS; advanced
training in conservation acquired through formal graduate studies or
a combination of apprenticeship, advanced courses, and internships;
minimum of 2 years of personnel and program management experience in
a research library. Broad general knowledge of library preservation,
including library binding, reformatting, environmental control,
disaster preparedness and response, and bibliographic control as it
relates to preservation. Demonstrated excellence performing
conservation treatments. Knowledge of the history of book and paper
making, bookbinding techniques, and the history and manufacture of
other library materials; and the nature and causes of book and paper
deterioration. Working knowledge of chemistry as it applies to
library materials. Knowledge of and adherence to professional
ethical practice in conservation.

Additional Requirements: Lanuage Skills: Excellent oral and written
communication skills, including demonstrated ability to prepare
reports and procedural documentation.

Computer Skills: Knowledge of standard word processing, spreadsheet,
and database software. Experience with an integrated library system
and bindery preparation software. Knowledge of and experience
inputting into Aleph and other means of managing info. related to
surveys, needs assessment and actions taken in the preservation of
items.

Other Skills: Strong interpersonal and organizational skills,
including the ability to establish priorities and achieve goals; to
plan, organize, and direct workflow; to train, supervise, motivate,
and evaluate staff; and to encourage team work and staff
development. Ability to initiate and adapt to change, to analyze and
solve problems, and to be flexible and work collaboratively. Ability
to communicate skillfully both orally and in writing.

Supervisory: The incumbent supervises support staff positions; and
other temporary and LHT positions.

Physical Environment: The incumbent uses a range of bookbinding
equipment. This equipment is highly specialized and many pieces
require safety precautions because of high temperature or sharp
blades.

Work Environment: The work associated with this position is
performed at a designated work station in the technical services
department of the library. The incumbent sometimes works with moldy
or dusty materials, and items that could potentially pose other
biological hazards.

Required Screening Harvard University requires pre-employment
reference and background screening.

Applicants may apply on line at <URL:http://www.jobs.harvard.edu>

Harvard University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity
Employer

George White
Administrative Director
Human Resources
Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study
10 Garden Street
Cambridge, MA 02138
617-496-9416


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                  Conservation DistList Instance 20:36
                Distributed: Saturday, January 27, 2007
                       Message Id: cdl-20-36-029
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