Position at Columbia

Conservation Assistant
Conservation Department
Columbia University Libraries

Position ID #049670
(Bibliographic Assistant VI)
Salary Grade $614.77/week

Description of Duties:  Under the direction of the Head of
Conservation and the Special Collections Conservator, the incumbent
will perform basic paper conservation procedures such as surface
cleaning, washing, re-sizing and mending of materials from the
libraries' rare and special collections.  The incumbent will also
perform conservation repairs on selected general collections
materials, including rebinding, reattaching boards, encapsulating
maps and documents, repairing torn pages and making protective
enclosures. Depending on skills and experience, may also rebind and
conserve pre-1850 and other significant bound volumes from general
collections, with emphasis on retaining original character and
binding features. Assists with preparation of rare materials for
exhibition and loan.  Will also assist with environmental
monitoring, supply inventory, disaster response and treatment
documentation.  Participates in disaster response and recovery of
general and special collections materials. Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications: High school diploma, BA/BS preferred.  One year
full-time experience in binding and repair of multi-section
case-bound books, preferably in a library or archives conservation
setting; or one year full-time experience in conservation of rare or
valuable paper artifacts including experience with protective
housings and exhibit preparation; or completion of internship,
apprenticeship or training program resulting in equivalent skills
and knowledge. Must have experience with binding multi-section
books.  Must have basic paper conservation skills and the ability to
handle fragile and rare materials with care.  Must be able to work
independently when necessary; good communication and interpersonal
skills essential. Experience with word-processing and spreadsheet
software helpful. Must be willing to work on a wide range of
materials, performing detailed and occasionally repetitive tasks.
Requires operation of specialized equipment (e.g. ultrasonic welder,
fume hood, guillotine cutter) and the use of various chemicals under
controlled conditions. Applicants invited for interview are
encouraged to provide a portfolio of previous conservation or
related work.

This is a full-time, union position with comprehensive benefits and
20 days paid vacation.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.  Those
received before April 26, 2007 will receive priority consideration.

Interested applicants must apply via:

  <URL:http://jobs.columbia.edu/applicants/Central?quickFind=104533>

Alexis Hagadorn
Head of Conservation
Columbia University Libraries


                                  ***
                  Conservation DistList Instance 20:46
                  Distributed: Friday, March 23, 2007
                       Message Id: cdl-20-46-037
                                  ***