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Conservator

Conservators look after and restore objects, artworks or buildings of historical importance.

Average annual salary

Variable

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Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role

University

The subject you study will depend on the type of conservation you want to work in.

Examples of conservation specialisms include:

  • fine art
  • buildings and heritage
  • archaeology
  • books and paper
  • textiles
  • human customs and cultures

There are also specialist degrees, diplomas and postgraduate qualifications in conservation.

You can find out more about courses available through The Institute of Conservation (ICON) .

Entry requirements:

  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

Entry requirements:

Apprenticeship

You can start out by doing a cultural heritage conservation technician higher apprenticeship, then take further training to qualify.

You could also apply for a cultural heritage conservator degree apprenticeship if you have the right experience and qualifications.

Entry requirements:

  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

Work

You may be able to move into certain kinds of conservation work if you've got relevant qualifications and experience. For example, building conservation may be suitable if you're a qualified stonemason, plasterer or roofer.

If you want to specialise in conservation of crafts, like stained glass, decorative stonework or metalwork, you're more likely to build up your skills and experience in work.

Volunteering

You could apply for the Institute of Conservation's internship programme . It can be a useful way to get practical experience after studying.

You'll also have an advantage when looking for courses and jobs if you have work experience with a museum collection or at an historic site .

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Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Skills:
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • knowledge of English language
  • the ability to use your initiative
  • analytical thinking skills
  • the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
  • knowledge of chemistry including the safe use and disposal of chemicals
  • knowledge of the fine arts
  • to be flexible and open to change
  • ambition and a desire to succeed
  • an interest and knowledge of history
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • administration skills
  • active listening skills
  • excellent written communication skills
  • thinking and reasoning skills
  • the ability to read English
  • the ability to work well with your hands
  • the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
  • the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
  • concentration skills
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What you'll do:

Conservators look after and restore objects, artworks or buildings of historical importance.

You may:

  • look after objects so they stay in good condition
  • check the condition and restore items
  • make sure that conditions are right for display and storage
  • keep written and photographic records
  • give presentations to visitors, including school groups
  • give advice on collections or buildings

Location : You could work in a museum, in a workshop, in a creative studio, in a laboratory or visit sites.
Uniform : You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.

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Salary:

Starter : variable
Experienced : variable

These figures are a guide

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Working hours:

39 - 41 hours variable

Working Pattern is as a contractor / self-employed managing your own hours

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Career Path:

You could move into project management, although this may mean stepping away from 'hands on' practical conservation work.

You could go into teaching or academic research or work as a freelance consultant.

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