HEAD OF CONSERVATION **SEARCH REOPENED** The Asian Art Museum, a premier San Francisco institution, is one of the largest museums in the Western world devoted exclusively to Asian art. The museum’s magnificent and priceless collection of more than 17,000 objects, including paintings, sculpture, ceramics, bronzes, jades, and textiles, exemplifies the artistic accomplishments of countries and cultures throughout Asia. In 2003, the museum relocated to an historic Civic Center building which underwent a multi-million dollar renovation to become the Asian Art Museum’s spectacular new home. The Asian Art Museum is seeking an experienced conservator with strong managerial, leadership, and communication skills to supervise and coordinate the staff and operations of the Conservation Laboratory for this world-renowned collection. Reporting to the Director of Museum Services, the Head of Conservation directs and manages the staff and activities of the Conservation department; supervises and performs highly skilled conservation work, including examination, research, treatment, documentation, and preparation for exhibition of Asian art objects. He/she manages all administrative duties related to the operations of the department, and serves as the museum’s chief spokesperson on conservation issues. The Head of Conservation performs highly skilled conservation work; determines standards and procedures for the care of Asian artworks within the museum, in exhibitions, and on loan; devises restoration and preservation methods and techniques; consults with curators, scientists, and external conservators; liaises with outside specialists such as painting mounters and framers; and provides information on conservation matters to museum staff, colleagues, and the public. The ideal candidate will have a significant record of professional accomplishments that may also include publishing and research. Bringing energy and vision, the candidate will be able to anticipate the future needs of the institution and to design effective systems for meeting the museum’s obligations with regard to the care and preservation of the collection. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS · Master’s Degree in Art Conservation from a recognized college or university, or a Master of Arts Degree in Art History with a Certificate in Conservation from a recognized Conservation Training Program. The desired candidate will have a strong background in object conservation and experience with Asian art, although outstanding candidates with other conservation specializations will also be considered. · Five (5) years of verifiable museum conservation experience, beyond the degree or certificate, with the techniques, materials, and equipment used in the conservation of Asian art objects; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience; experience must include at least two (2) years of supervision. · Demonstrated knowledge of: the technology, materials, and equipment used in the conservation of works of Asian art; procedures relating to the examination and the preventative and corrective treatment of art objects; the environmental and handling requirements for storage, exhibition, and travel of art objects. · Ability to: examine and determine the condition and conservation needs of works of art; plan, direct and implement research strategies to determine the date, authenticity, and fabrication of Asian art objects; work collaboratively with curatorial staff in research projects. · Ability to provide sound advice and recommendations regarding the design of facilities to ensure the proper display, storage, and treatment of works of art. · Ability to: organize and manage complex projects; analyze complicated administrative problems, evaluate alternative solutions and adopt effective courses of action; develop and manage budgets. · Ability to: supervise, direct, motivate, and evaluate staff, interns, and volunteers; establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with museum staff, visitors, volunteers, donors, and representatives of other museums. · Strong leadership, interpersonal, planning, and organizational skills; excellent written and oral communication skills; effective presentation, negotiation, problem solving, and conflict resolution skills. COMPENSATION Excellent compensation and benefits package APPLICATION PROCEDURE Apply online at www.asianart.org or Send a letter of interest and resume as soon as possible to: HUMAN RESOURCES ASIAN ART MUSEUM 200 Larkin Street San Francisco, CA 94102 FAX: 415-861-2359 The Asian Art Museum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.