Harwell Restoration (Polygon Newbury) are looking to recruit a Conservator (Papersand/or Books) to join their conservation team.
Harwell Restoration is the UK and Ireland’s leading service provider in disaster recovery after fire and flood damage to collections in libraries, archives, museums and historic houses, with over 1,000 institutions retaining Harwell for emergency response support via our Priority User Service. In addition, we also provide solutions to collections care issues including pest management and mould remediation and a growing offering in conservation.
The position would be based at our main facility in Thatcham, Berkshire although onsite work may be required across the UK.
About the Role
The Conservator holds a key position within the conservation team, with responsibility for managing conservation projects involving paper based materials, books and photographic materials. The role combines practical treatment and project leadership, ensuring the delivery of high-quality conservation services to a wide range of clients across institutional, commercial, and private sectors.
Key Responsibilities
1. Project Leadership and Delivery
- Undertake planning, managing, and delivering of conservation projects including treatment decision-making, risk management, and quality assurance.
- Create comprehensive condition assessments both in-house and onsite, treatment proposals, and final reports.
- Ensure projects are scheduled, internal databases updated and deadlines met to include regular client communication and ensuring client expectations are met.
2. Practical Conservation Work and Preservation Strategies
- Recommend appropriate preservation measures following professional standards.
- Conduct hands-on conservation treatments of paper based materials including photographs and books.
- Ensure accurate documentation of treatments in line with professional ethical and technical standards.
4. Department Duties
- As part of the team; track and manage conservation materials, equipment, and supplies.
- Contribute to the improvement of workflows, treatment methodologies, and documentation systems.
About You
- Post graduate qualification in Conservation and a specialism in paper based materials and/or books and/or photographic conservation
- Experience of a range of practical treatments
- Proven ability to lead projects and deliver high-quality outcomes
- Excellent team working skills
- Experience of leading a project
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with a range of clients and stakeholders
- An understanding of conservation ethics, health and safety standards, and professional documentation practices
- Full UK Driving Licence is desirable
How to Apply
To apply, please send a cover letter and CV to Alex McGuire, Head of Paper Conservation [email protected] before the role deadline on Tuesday 31 March 2026.