Career Opportunities with RLA Conservation

Conservator of Objects | Los Angeles Studio

RLA Conservation (RLA) seeks a highly motivated individual for the position of Associate Objects Conservator based in our Los Angeles, CA office. This permanent, full-time staff position will be responsible for the in-studio and on-site treatment of objects, examination, technical analysis, documentation, treatment, research as well as assisting with the conservation of outdoor sculpture in a team setting. There are often opportunities for cross-disciplinary team working such as public art projects, time-based media, murals, and architectural elements.

In practice since 2008, RLA is a studio with offices in Miami and Los Angeles that is generally regarded among the top sculpture and architectural conservation firms in the country. A woman founded company, we are committed to diversity in hiring and the promotion and long-term capacity training of our staff. Our clients include the most important museums, private collections, insurance companies, architects, and government agencies in Florida, California, Hawaii, Texas, Washington, Arizona, Oregon, and elsewhere throughout the United States. As such, travel to and outside of these regions will be required depending on project need. In addition to in-studio and other indoor projects, many projects require working in outdoor settings in full sun in a range of temperatures. 

Applicants must have a Master’s degree from a recognized graduate conservation training program. A minimum of 3 – 5 years of post-graduation experience in objects conservation is preferred, though new professionals with exceptional abilities will be considered. Professional Association status with the American Institute of Conservation is preferred but not required. If a candidate has the prerequisite experience to obtain Professional Association status, it is expected that the individual obtains said status within one (1) year of employment. Excellent project management, written, verbal and interpersonal skills are required. The company’s main focus is the conservation of contemporary and modern art although objects from all periods and materials are treated. 

Demonstrable skill and ability to prioritize and work independently as well as in collaboration with other team members and outside contractors to meet deadlines on multiple projects is essential. A broad knowledge of materials, cultures/art history, and documentation and research techniques are expected. Familiarity and conservation experience with historic materials (metals, ceramics, stone, painted surfaces, etc.) is required. Familiarity and conservation experience with modern materials (i.e., plastics), and time-based artworks is desired, as is experience with supervision or mentoring of conservation staff.

Ideally the conservator should possess a wide range of hand skills, in-painting skills, and the ability to perform physical tasks in a range of outdoor climates/settings. The following is required:

• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Experience in research with contemporary art materials and
• Treatment practice and documentation must be of an exceptionally high
• Excellent written skills in English and ability to compose detailed reports.
• Working independently, as well as part of a cohesive team in a fast-paced
• Familiarity with MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Adobe creative suite
• Ability to work on ladders, scaffolding, and other heights
• A valid driver’s license and car
• Ability to work overnight
• Ability to pass government background checks and/or drug screenings based on our client’s requirements
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to sit and/or stand for prolonged periods of time
• Ability to perform repetitive and controlled hand/arm movements for prolonged periods of time
• Photography skills for documentation
• Excellent written skills in English and ability to compose detailed reports
• Overnight travel is required as part of this position and may be out of state. Duration of travel is typically one week per month, though some projects may occasionally require longer periods of travel, not to exceed two weeks at a time per month unless agreed upon by the staff member.
• Authorization to work in the United States. Unfortunately, at this time RLA is unable to sponsor employment-based visas.

The following is desired but not required:

• Equipment operation including aerial platforms, motorized tools, and other machinery
• Other tool skills, including airbrushing, patination and woodworking, for example

Salary and Benefits:

$65,000.00 – $80,000.00 per year depending on experience. We offer PTO, 9 paid holidays, health insurance payment, pension plan, annual bonus of approximately 3-5% of salary (depending on annual profitability of the company), and cell phone allowance. We are an equal opportunity employer known for the diversity of our staff and offer robust internal advancement opportunities and raises.

This position reports to President & Chief Conservator Christina Varvi and Director of Operations, Nelson Hallonquist. In addition to a competitive salary and benefits package, relocation assistance may be offered, as well. To apply, please e-mail your resume, a letter of interest, short writing sample of sole authorship, and contact information for three (3) professional references to: nhallonquist@rlaconservation.com.