Conservator
Conservators clean, repair and restore objects, artworks and buildings of historical and cultural importance.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
As a conservator, you'll:
- assess the condition of items and plan conservation options
- keep written and digital records before, during and after work
- analyse items using scans, x-rays and microscopic examinations
- use scalpels, cotton swabs and solvents to clean objects
- restore items using original methods and materials
- manage display and storage conditions, like temperature and humidity
- give talks and presentations to visitor groups and professionals
Working environment
You could work in a museum, in a workshop, in a creative studio, in a laboratory or visit sites.
You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could become a senior or principal conservator, managing a collections team.
You may have more opportunities for career development if you join a larger institution, like a national gallery or museum.
Other options include:
- research and teaching in higher education
- working with a commercial conservation company
- setting up as a freelance specialist, doing contract work on projects
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- an interest and knowledge of history
- knowledge of the fine arts
- analytical thinking skills
- the ability to work well with your hands
- to be flexible and open to change
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to use your initiative
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
You can study a subject related to the type of conservation work you want to do.
Examples of conservation specialisms include:
- fine art
- architecture and heritage
- archaeology
- books and paper
- textiles
- human customs and cultures
You can also do postgraduate qualifications in conservation after completing a first degree.
The Institute of Conservation (ICON) has details of universities offering degree and postgraduate courses.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
More Information
You could apply for a place on an apprenticeship. These include:
- Cultural Heritage Conservation Technician Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
- Cultural Heritage Conservator Level 7 Apprenticeship, which is equivalent to a postgraduate degree
Entry requirements
Employers will set their own entry requirements.
More Information
You may be able to move into certain types 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.
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.
Career tips
You could apply for The Institute of Conservation's internship programme. It can be a useful way to get practical experience after studying.
Further information
You can find out more about careers in collections conservation from The Institute of Conservation.
You can also learn about artwork restoration through The British Association of Paintings Conservator-Restorers.
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External links
This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.