Paintings and Polychromy Conservator

Calibre Conservation (Deadline 10/10/2025)

11 Sep 2025
Calibre Conservation are looking to recruit a Paintings and Polychromy Conservator to join their team. 

Calibre Conservation specialises in the care and repair of historic buildings, interiors, and decorative finishes across the UK. We conserve fine art and historic painted and gilded surfaces in studio and on site. We are seeking a Paintings and Polychromy Conservator with practical experience on easel paintings and architectural polychrome, able to work across substrates including plaster, timber, canvas, stone, and metal.

Main Responsibilities

  • Assess, clean, consolidate, retouch, and stabilise decorative surfaces
  • Conserve stencilling, trompe-l’œil, faux finishes, gilding, and polychromy
  • Conduct paint sampling, condition assessments, and historic paint analysis
  • Produce condition reports, treatment records, and photographic documentation
  • Work independently and in a team, liaising with clients, architects, and heritage professionals

About You

Essential Criteria:

  • MA or equivalent in conservation, specialising in paintings or polychrome
  • Experience conserving fine art and decorative painted surfaces
  • Skilled in surface cleaning, retouching, gilding, and documentation
  • Willingness to travel to historic sites, including at height or restricted spaces
  • Full UK driving licence or access to independent transport

Desirable Criteria:

  • Experience in historic interiors, churches, or listed buildings
  • Knowledge of traditional decorative techniques and heritage conservation standards
  • CSCS card (or willingness to obtain one)

What We Offer

  • Hands-on work on nationally significant heritage projects
  • Opportunities for professional development
  • Collaborative and supportive team environment

How to Apply

To apply for this role, please send your CV, brief cover letter, and examples of relevant work (PDF or portfolio) to [email protected] before the role deadline on Friday 10 October 2025.

For informal enquiries, contact Dr Cassandra Crawford at 07766714800.