How to Become an Archival Conservator (From Aging to Ageless)

If you’ve ever been fascinated by preserving historical documents and artifacts, or wondered what it takes to become an archival conservator, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the EXACT steps you need to take to launch your career as an archival conservator. We’ll discuss:

The skills you need.
The education that can help you get there.
How to secure a job as an archival conservator.

So, whether you’re a history enthusiast or a professional looking to diversify your skills, stay tuned.

We’re about to unfold the roadmap to become an archival conservator.

Let’s embark on this journey!

Contents show

Steps to Become an Archival Conservator

Step 1: Understand the Role of an Archival Conservator

An Archival Conservator’s role is vital for the preservation of historical and culturally significant documents, works of art, and artifacts.

This role involves analyzing the materials and conditions of these items, determining the most suitable preservation or restoration techniques, and applying them carefully to prevent further deterioration.

Archival Conservators might also participate in research activities, contribute to the development of new preservation techniques, and advise on storage, handling, and display methods for the artifacts.

They often work in museums, libraries, historical societies, or governmental institutions.

The complexity of this role requires a blend of technical skills, scientific knowledge, and a keen eye for detail.

If you’re interested in history, art, archaeology, or science, and love the idea of contributing to the preservation of cultural heritage, this might be the perfect career path for you.

Step 2: Obtain Relevant Education

To become an Archival Conservator, you would typically need to have a bachelor’s degree in history, library science, archival science, or a related field.

However, many institutions prefer candidates with a master’s degree in conservation or preservation science.

These programs usually focus on the preservation of historical documents, artifacts, and archival materials, combining both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

During your undergraduate degree, consider courses in art history, chemistry, and materials science, all of which provide a good foundation for a career in conservation.

Courses in photography, drawing, and computer technology can also be beneficial.

In your master’s program, you will delve deeper into conservation techniques and practices.

You would learn how to treat and restore various materials, work with digital archives, and manage physical and digital collection spaces.

Many programs require a thesis or a final project where you would apply the knowledge you have gained.

Additionally, it’s beneficial to have knowledge of a second language, as archival work often involves documents and artifacts from various cultures and time periods.

An internship or work-study position at a library, museum, or historical site can provide valuable hands-on experience and can often be arranged through your school’s career services department.

Remember, the field of archival conservation is constantly evolving with new technologies and techniques, so continuous learning and professional development are necessary throughout your career.

Step 3: Gain Specialized Knowledge

As an archival conservator, you are responsible for the preservation and conservation of historical and cultural artifacts.

Therefore, acquiring specialized knowledge is crucial to your career progression.

This could be in areas such as paper conservation, book conservation, textile conservation, or photographic materials conservation.

You can gain this knowledge through advanced degree programs in conservation or preservation studies.

Many of these programs offer coursework in chemistry, art history, studio art, and archaeology, among other topics.

They will provide you with a thorough grounding in the scientific and practical aspects of materials conservation.

Internships and fellowships at museums, libraries, and other cultural institutions can also provide valuable hands-on experience and expertise.

These opportunities allow you to apply what you’ve learned in class to real-world scenarios and can introduce you to different specialty areas within the field of conservation.

Furthermore, attending workshops and conferences, and participating in professional organizations can also help you stay up-to-date with the latest methods and technologies in the field.

This will not only enhance your knowledge but also expand your professional network.

Remember, the more specialized knowledge you have, the better equipped you will be to conserve and restore a wide range of materials and artifacts.

Step 4: Pursue Advanced Studies

As an aspiring archival conservator, it’s essential to pursue advanced studies to gain more specialized knowledge and skills in the field.

This can be accomplished by enrolling in a master’s degree program in archival studies, library science, museum studies, or a related field.

In these programs, you will delve deeper into subjects like preservation management, digital archives, record management, and conservation techniques.

Some programs also offer courses in specific areas of conservation, such as paper, photograph, or book conservation, allowing you to specialize in a particular area of interest.

Additionally, these advanced programs often provide opportunities for hands-on training and internships, giving you the chance to apply what you’ve learned in a real-world context and gain valuable experience.

This will significantly enhance your ability to compete in the job market and increase your chances of securing a role as an archival conservator.

Finally, in advanced studies, you may have the opportunity to conduct research or complete a thesis.

This can help you to further specialize in your area of interest and can open up opportunities for roles in academic or research institutions.

Step 5: Acquire Practical Experience

As an archival conservator, it is crucial to gain practical experience in the field.

This step is typically accomplished by seeking internships, temporary positions, or volunteering at museums, libraries, historical societies, or other institutions with archival materials.

You can also apply for fellowships or traineeships that offer hands-on experience in the conservation of archival materials.

This practical experience will provide you with a firsthand understanding of the responsibilities that come with being an archival conservator.

You’ll get to work with different types of materials such as documents, photographs, maps, prints, and other historical artifacts, and learn how to preserve and restore them.

Further, you can use this opportunity to develop your technical skills and expertise in specific conservation methods and techniques.

You’ll also learn about preventive conservation strategies such as how to manage storage, display, handling, and environmental conditions to minimize the deterioration of archival materials.

This practical experience is also a great opportunity to network with professionals in the field, which can be beneficial for future job opportunities.

Many employers in this field value practical experience, as it demonstrates a strong understanding of the demands and realities of the job.

Remember, the more diverse your experience is, the better equipped you’ll be to handle the wide range of challenges that come with being an archival conservator.

Step 6: Develop Technical Skills

Archival conservators require a specific set of technical skills that can only be developed through practical, hands-on experience.

These skills include document preservation, paper repair, binding restoration, and the use of specialized tools and chemicals for conservation treatments.

You can gain these skills through internships at archives, museums, or historical societies.

These venues often have ongoing conservation projects, where you can learn and apply preservation techniques under the supervision of experienced conservators.

Aside from practical skills, digital competence is increasingly important in this field.

This includes skills in digital preservation and the use of various digital tools and software used in archiving and conservation.

Knowledge in digitizing documents, working with digital databases, and understanding the basics of digital data storage can also give you an edge in the job market.

Remember, the process of acquiring technical skills is iterative and requires constant learning and adaptation.

Regularly update your knowledge by attending workshops, seminars, and conferences related to archival conservation.

Additionally, it is also beneficial to familiarize yourself with disaster response and recovery procedures, as you might need to salvage materials damaged by accidents, disasters, or time.

By combining these technical skills with a sound understanding of chemistry, history, and art, you can be well-prepared for a career as an archival conservator.

Step 7: Build a Professional Network

Building a robust professional network is a critical step in your journey as an archival conservator.

It can open doors to job opportunities, provide insight into the industry, and help in gaining knowledge from peers and experts.

Join relevant professional organizations such as the American Institute for Conservation (AIC), the Association of Canadian Archivists, or International Council on Archives.

These platforms often provide opportunities for networking, professional development, and keeping up-to-date with industry trends.

Attend conferences, seminars, and workshops related to archival conservation.

This could provide you with the chance to meet experts in the field, share ideas, and learn from their experiences.

It is also an excellent opportunity to showcase your work and receive valuable feedback.

Also, consider establishing relationships with professionals in related fields like historians, librarians, or museum curators.

They can provide fresh perspectives and could lead to collaborative projects in the future.

Remember, networking is not just about taking; it’s about giving, too.

Be prepared to share your knowledge and experiences with others in your network.

Mutual sharing of information strengthens professional relationships.

Don’t forget to leverage the power of social media.

LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter can be effective platforms to connect with professionals around the world.

Follow key influencers, join groups, and participate in online forums or discussions related to archival conservation.

By building a strong professional network, you not only enhance your career prospects but also contribute to the growth and development of the archival conservation field.

Step 8: Stay Informed About Technological Advancements

Being an Archival Conservator in the modern world requires staying up-to-date with the latest technological advancements and tools.

Many new techniques, materials, and digital tools are developed regularly that can help in the conservation and restoration of archives.

Some technologies can aid in the detection of damages, while others can aid in restoration and preservation processes.

One significant area to watch is digitization and digital preservation technologies.

These tools allow conservators to create digital copies of archived items, helping to reduce wear and tear on the original artifacts while also making archives more accessible to the public.

There are also advancements in the materials and techniques used in restoration, so it’s important to stay informed about these changes.

This can be done by subscribing to professional journals, attending conferences and workshops, and joining professional organizations.

Continuing education is another essential aspect of staying informed.

There are often courses, webinars, and other educational opportunities that can help you learn about the latest developments in the field.

Remember that technology isn’t just about the tools you use; it’s also about the methods and strategies you employ in your work.

By staying up-to-date with the latest advancements, you can ensure that you’re providing the best possible care for the archives you work with.

Step 9: Obtain Professional Accreditation

Gaining professional accreditation as an Archival Conservator is a critical step in the career pathway.

The American Institute for Conservation (AIC) provides a recognized professional accreditation program for conservators.

To gain this accreditation, one must have significant experience in the field of conservation and should have ideally completed a post-graduate program in conservation.

The accreditation process involves a rigorous peer review where your knowledge, skills, and professional work will be evaluated.

This includes a review of your past conservation projects, an oral interview, and practical examinations.

After successful completion of the peer review, you will be granted professional associate status, and after more experience and another peer review, you can gain the status of a Fellow, which is the highest level of professional accreditation in conservation.

Professional accreditation from AIC is recognized and respected internationally.

It signifies that the conservator has met a high standard of competence and professional integrity.

This not only improves job prospects but also gives clients and employers confidence in your abilities as an archival conservator.

Remember, accreditation needs to be maintained by meeting ongoing professional development requirements.

This ensures that you are up-to-date with the latest methods and technologies in conservation, thus enhancing your skills and marketability.

Step 10: Continue Professional Development

Continuing professional development is crucial for a career as an archival conservator.

This field is continually changing with advancements in technology and conservation techniques, so it’s essential to stay up-to-date with the latest practices.

One of the ways to do this is by attending workshops, seminars, and conferences related to archival conservation.

These events often provide learning opportunities on current research, emerging trends, and innovative materials and methods in the field.

You may also have the chance to network with other professionals, which can lead to collaborations and job opportunities.

Another way to continue your professional development is by becoming a member of professional organizations like the American Institute for Conservation (AIC) or the International Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works (IIC).

These organizations offer resources such as online courses, webinars, and publications that can help you stay informed about the industry.

Additionally, consider seeking out additional certifications or credentials in specific areas of archival conservation.

These can not only enhance your skills but also make you more attractive to potential employers.

Finally, remember that learning is an ongoing process.

Regularly reading industry-related literature, engaging in online discussions, and experimenting with new techniques can all contribute to your professional growth as an archival conservator.

Archival Conservator Roles and Responsibilities

Archival Conservators are responsible for the preservation, treatment, and maintenance of historical and valuable materials.

They ensure these artifacts remain in the best possible condition for current and future generations to learn from and enjoy.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

Preservation and Conservation

Assess the physical condition of archival materials, such as documents, photographs, and artifacts.
Perform conservation treatments to prevent deterioration and damage.
Use specialized tools and techniques to clean, repair, and restore materials.

Collection Management

Develop and implement strategies for the preservation and storage of collections.
Organize, catalog, and classify archival materials.
Monitor and control storage environments to prevent damage from light, temperature, humidity, and pests.

Research and Documentation

Carry out research to understand the historical context and importance of archival materials.
Prepare detailed reports and records of conservation treatments and the condition of items.
Document all actions and processes applied to the artifacts.

Advisory and Consultancy

Provide advice on conservation issues to stakeholders, such as archivists, curators, and the public.
Recommend appropriate preservation strategies and conservation treatments.

Training and Supervision

Train and supervise staff, volunteers, and interns in handling and conservation techniques.
Conduct workshops and demonstrations to raise awareness of conservation issues.

Emergency Response

Develop and implement emergency plans for the protection of collections in case of disasters, such as fires and floods.
Participate in the recovery and salvage of damaged items.

Exhibition and Display

Work with other museum or archive staff to prepare items for display or loan.
Ensure that display methods and materials do not damage items.

Project Management

Plan and manage conservation projects, including budgeting, scheduling, and resource allocation.
Collaborate with other professionals, such as curators, scientists, and historians.

Continuous Learning

Stay updated with the latest conservation techniques and materials.
Participate in professional development activities, such as workshops, conferences, and training programs.

What Does an Archival Conservator Do?

Archival Conservators are typically employed by museums, libraries, historical societies, research institutions, or archives.

They can also operate as independent consultants.

Their main job is to ensure the preservation, conservation, and restoration of historical and archival documents, photographs, maps, and other items of historical or cultural significance.

They examine the physical condition of archival materials, identify types and extent of damage, and choose the most suitable conservation treatment.

Archival Conservators may also be involved in digitizing materials to preserve them in electronic format, as well as restoring damaged or degraded items using a variety of techniques and specialized equipment.

In addition to these tasks, they also develop and implement conservation policies and procedures, provide advice and training to staff and volunteers on proper handling and storage of archival materials, and may also conduct research to improve current conservation practices.

They are responsible for ensuring the longevity of these materials for future generations to study, appreciate, and learn from.

Essential Archival Conservator Skills

Archival Knowledge: A deep understanding of archival principles and practices, as well as knowledge of archival standards and protocols is essential. This includes knowing how to classify, arrange, and describe archival materials.
Conservation Techniques: Expertise in various conservation techniques such as cleaning, repairing, and stabilizing documents and other archival materials is a must. This also includes the ability to restore damaged items and prevent further decay.
Material Knowledge: Familiarity with the physical properties and composition of archival materials, such as paper, film, and digital formats, along with understanding how these materials deteriorate over time is critical.
Attention to Detail: Archival conservators must have keen attention to detail, as they are responsible for the preservation and restoration of often fragile and valuable items.
Problem-solving: Identifying and diagnosing deterioration issues in archival materials and determining the most effective conservation methods requires excellent problem-solving skills.
Chemistry Knowledge: Basic knowledge of chemistry is required to understand the reactions that can lead to the deterioration of materials and to use the right materials and techniques for conservation.
Documentation: Ability to meticulously document all conservation procedures and treatments, as well as the condition of the items, is necessary for future reference and accountability.
Project Management: Skills in project management are essential, including task prioritization, time management, and the ability to work on multiple projects at the same time.
Dexterity: Archival conservators often work with delicate and fragile materials. Thus, excellent hand-eye coordination and a steady hand are crucial.
Communication: Strong communication skills are vital for explaining complex conservation processes to non-specialists, interacting with other professionals, and providing preservation training and advice.
Research: Ability to conduct research into the historical significance and context of items, as well as into new conservation techniques and materials, is critical.
Information Technology: Basic IT skills are necessary for digital archiving and for using databases and other software tools to catalogue and track items.
Teamwork: Ability to work effectively in a team, share knowledge, and contribute to collective goals is important.
Patient and Persistent: Archival conservation often requires a lot of patience and persistence due to the intricate and time-consuming nature of the work.
Passion: A strong interest in and passion for history and preservation can be a great asset in this role, helping to motivate and inspire high-quality work.

Archival Conservator Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Archival Technician

The journey into archival conservation usually begins as an Archival Technician.

At this stage, you will be introduced to the basics of archival work, including preventive conservation, cataloging, and basic preservation techniques.

Here are some tips for success in this role:

Continued Education: Stay updated with the latest conservation methods and archival standards.
Ask for Guidance: Always ask for help when uncertain and learn from the experience of senior conservators.
Attention to Detail: Develop a keen eye for detail, necessary for the careful handling and preservation of archives.

The Ascent: Archival Conservator

With experience and further training, you can transition to the role of an Archival Conservator.

You will be tasked with more complex conservation tasks and may even specialize in a specific type of material, such as paper, photographic materials, or electronic records.

Here’s how to thrive in this stage:

Problem Solving: Cultivate your problem-solving skills by tackling challenging conservation issues.
Collaboration: Work closely with archivists, librarians, and other stakeholders to achieve the shared goal of preserving valuable records.
Technical Skills: Focus on mastering your technical skills in conservation, both in theory and practice.

Reaching New Heights: Senior Archival Conservator

The next step in your career could be a Senior Archival Conservator.

At this level, you’re recognized for your expertise and leadership within the team.

You may guide conservation decisions, oversee projects, and mentor less experienced team members.

To excel as a Senior Archival Conservator:

Mentorship: Share your knowledge and expertise with junior colleagues to help them grow professionally.
Strategic Planning: Understand the bigger picture of the archive’s needs and plan conservation efforts accordingly.
Leadership: Demonstrate leadership by driving projects to successful completion and setting an example with your work ethic.

Beyond the Horizon: Lead Conservator or Archival Manager

With further career progression, you may move into roles such as Lead Conservator or Archival Manager.

These positions carry more responsibilities, including overseeing all conservation efforts, leading teams, and strategic decision-making.

Here’s what to focus on:

Leadership: Lead your team effectively, ensuring all conservation projects are on track and meeting the required standards.
Communication Skills: Develop strong communication skills to liaise with different stakeholders, from donors to the public.
Innovation: Embrace new technologies and methods in conservation and adapt to changing demands in the field.

Pinnacle of Success: Director of Conservation

At the highest level, you might become the Director of Conservation, responsible for the overall strategy and vision of the conservation department.

You would make critical decisions, manage large teams, and ensure the longevity and preservation of important records.

Archival Conservator Salary

Entry-Level Archival Conservator

Median Salary: $35,000 – $50,000 per year
Entry-level archival conservators typically have 0-2 years of experience and may hold a bachelor’s degree in conservation science or related fields. They may work under the supervision of more experienced conservators.

Mid-Level Archival Conservator

Median Salary: $50,000 – $70,000 per year
Mid-level conservators have 2-5 years of experience and are expected to take on more complex preservation and restoration projects. A master’s degree in conservation or related field and a professional certification may be preferred at this level.

Senior Archival Conservator

Median Salary: $70,000 – $90,000 per year
Senior conservators possess 5+ years of experience and are responsible for leading conservation projects, making crucial preservation decisions, and mentoring junior conservators. They may also play a role in public education and outreach.

Lead Archival Conservator / Conservation Manager

Median Salary: $90,000 – $120,000+ per year
These roles come with significant experience and often involve leadership in conservation strategies, project management, and decision-making. They are often responsible for the overall direction of a museum or library’s conservation efforts.

Principal Conservator / Director of Conservation

Median Salary: $100,000 – $150,000+ per year
These high-level positions require extensive experience, and deep expertise in conservation science. They often involve setting strategies for preservation and restoration for a large museum, library, or other institution.

Archival Conservator Work Environment

Archival Conservators are usually employed in libraries, archives, museums, historical societies or government agencies.

They often work in laboratories or specially designed conservation rooms equipped with the necessary tools and materials for preservation.

These professionals typically work regular, full-time hours, but may occasionally need to put in extra hours to meet project deadlines.

Their work is often detail-oriented, requiring patience, precision, and a deep understanding of various materials and preservation techniques.

Additionally, Archival Conservators may also collaborate with researchers, curators, and other museum staff to ensure the items are properly preserved and accessible.

In some cases, experienced Archival Conservators may choose to work as independent consultants, providing their specialized services to various organizations on a project basis.

FAQs About Becoming an Archival Conservator

What is needed to become an archival conservator?

Archival conservators often need a degree in a related field such as art conservation, library science, history, or archaeology.

They also typically need expertise in chemistry and archival management.

Practical experience, gained through internships or volunteer work in museums, libraries, or archives, is also vital.

Additionally, archival conservators require strong analytical, problem-solving, and manual dexterity skills.

Proficiency in using various tools and technologies used in conservation is also critical.

How long does it take to become an archival conservator?

The time it takes to become an archival conservator can vary widely depending on the educational pathway and experience level.

If you pursue a bachelor’s degree in a related field and then a master’s degree in conservation or a related field, it typically takes 6-7 years.

Postgraduate internships or fellowships, which are often required to gain practical experience, may take an additional 1-2 years.

Therefore, it can take around 7-9 years to become an archival conservator.

Can I be an archival conservator without a degree?

While it’s possible to become an archival conservator without a traditional degree, it can be challenging as most employers require a degree in a related field.

However, gaining significant experience in archival work, demonstrating strong knowledge in related areas such as chemistry and history, and having a portfolio of conservation projects could potentially make you an attractive candidate for some roles.

Is archival conservation a stressful job?

Archival conservation can be stressful at times due to the delicate and often irreplaceable nature of the materials being handled.

The work often requires high levels of precision and can be time-consuming.

However, many archival conservators find the work deeply satisfying and rewarding, as it contributes to preserving cultural heritage and historical artifacts.

What are the prospects for archival conservators in the next decade?

The job prospects for archival conservators over the next decade are expected to grow at an average pace.

As more institutions recognize the importance of preserving historical and cultural artifacts, there will likely be an increasing need for professionals who can conserve these materials.

Additionally, as digital technologies evolve, there may also be growing opportunities for conservators skilled in digital preservation.

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Venturing on the path to become an archival conservator is not a walk in the park, but it’s undeniably fulfilling.

Equipped with the right skills, education, and dedication, you’re well on your way to making a significant contribution in the realm of historical preservation.

Remember, the journey may be demanding, but the rewards are endless. Your efforts could lead to the preservation of essential cultural heritage that shapes the way we understand our past and influence our future.

So, take that first step. Immerse yourself in the wealth of knowledge. Collaborate with professionals. And most importantly, never stop discovering.

Because history is waiting for your careful touch.

And if you’re looking for personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career in archival conservation, explore our AI Career Path Advisor.

This free tool is designed to offer tailored advice and resources to help you navigate your career path effectively.

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