The National Gallery of Ireland (‘Gallery’) is the country’s most popular free visitor attraction housing the nation’s collection of European and Irish art, from about 1300 to the present day, as well as extensive Library and Archives collections. Nominated for European Museum of the Year (2018), and winner of the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland Culture-Public Building award (2018), the Gallery continues its mission of serving our visitors in their enrichment and enjoyment of visual art. Entry to the collection is free for all to enjoy, learn and be inspired.
The Gallery wishes to recruit a Conservation Technician Paper & Photographs (‘Conservation Technician’) to provide technical support for the care of the National Gallery’s collections of works of art on paper, including photographs, and library and archival collections, within the work program delivered by the Conservation Department.
The Conservation Technician will prepare artworks for exhibitions, display, loan and storage. The post holder will deliver technical solutions supporting preservation and conservation treatments of works on paper. Reporting to the Head of Conservation or nominated deputy, the Conservation Technician will:
• Assist Paper Conservators with the examination and documentation of artworks.
• Prepare artworks for public view by providing mounting, framing and display solutions.
• Prepare and pack artworks for preservation, exhibition and display, storage and transport.
• Advise on and assist with the installation of works on paper, ensuring their safety, report on their condition, and identify and correct any problems with the set up.
• Update conservation reports.
• Input conservation and technical information on the Gallery’s collection management system (TMS).
• Work closely with the Art Handling & Loans Manager in relation to store management.
• Work closely with the Library & Archive team in relation to the preservation, display and storage of our library and archive collections.
• Perform routine house-keeping tasks in the conservation workshop, such as keeping studio work areas clean and tidy and ensuring equipment is safely put away after use
• Maintain and support an organised workplace including equipment maintenance.
• Act as courier and travel with artworks, if required.
• Contribute to and participate in collection emergency preparedness and disaster recovery.
• Provide general technical support to the painting conservation team, if required.
The successful candidate will have:
Previous work experience as a conservation technician working with works of art on paper and/or BA degree in Paper Conservation.
• Relevant work experience, preferably in a gallery/museum setting.
• Practical experience of preparing works of art to conservation standard, cutting mounts, de-framing/framing artworks and using hand and power tools.
• A proven ability to handle fine art on paper.
• Experience in the handling, packing and installation of artworks.
• A practical knowledge of documenting artworks.
• Effective planning skills with the ability to work well under pressure and prioritise workload to meet deadlines.
• A logical and pragmatic approach to problem solving.
• A proven ability to work effectively individually or as part of a team.
• Proficient IT skills including core Microsoft packages and databases.
• Excellent communication skills (oral and written).
• Good working relationships with colleagues across various departments
• An ability to contribute to a positive work culture which is based on mutual respect, collaboration and openness and demonstrates a genuine interest in and commitment to the work at Gallery.
• A willingness to progress own professional development and is open to learning new skills and techniques.
Note: This job description is a guide to broad areas of responsibility and accountability and should not be regarded as a comprehensive listing. The job description may be subject to review in the view of new structures and / or the changing needs of the Gallery. All employees are required to be compliant with NGI screening, security and Garda vetting procedures.
Grade and Salary: Salary is in accordance with the first point of the Executive Officer (PPC) pay scale, currently at €33,149 per annum (pro rata) effective from 1 October 2022.
Candidates should note the National Gallery of Ireland complies with Department of Public Expenditure and Reform regulations and guidelines on Public Service pay and conditions of employment.
Working hours: Full-time, 5 days a week - 35 hours per week. Post is based on site.
Closing date for receipt of applications: 13 January 2023
Interviews will be scheduled to commence: 23 January 2023
How to apply: Please upload a cover letter and curriculum vitae. Candidates are required to submit a portfolio in PDF Format.
https://www.candidatemanager.net/cm/p/pJobDetails.aspx?mid=YGTFY&sid=YAZ...
Candidates should note that panels may be formed from which future positions may be filled.
At the National Gallery of Ireland, we value equity, diversity and inclusion we recognise the benefits it can bring to our staff and our visitors interactions. We celebrate difference and want our people to be representative of all communities. If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, please do not hesitate to let us know.
The National Gallery of Ireland is an equal opportunities employer.
