The intern assists NPS Museum Conservators with object handling object photography (before and after treatment digital imaging), report writing (condition reports, treatment proposals, and treatment reports), database entry, lab maintenance, and basic treatment steps for a variety of NPS artifacts on loan to Harpers Ferry Center (HFC) for conservation treatment. Training will be provided in all areas listed above, but advanced knowledge of basic museum practices and a strong interest in working the field of art conservation is desirable. Basic treatment steps may include a variety of surface cleaning methods, mending tears, filling losses, reattaching loose elements, applying surface coatings, and humidifying/flattening under the guidance of an NPS conservator. The types of objects/materials will vary but could include textiles, paper/books, ceramics/glass, metals, and wooden artifacts. Testing of materials to ensure the preservation of the objects during treatment such as spot testing and using a microscope for close examination will also be included in projects. A museum studies, archives, art history, chemistry, or art studio background is required, but attention to detail, good hand skills, flexibility, and a willingness to learn are also important. Own transportation is required. Located in Charles Town, WV.
Museum Conservation Services at Harpers Ferry Center supports museum collections throughout the National Park Service. Projects in the coming year may include materials from Death Valley National Park, Harry S Truman National Historic Site, Fort Frederica National Monument, and Gettysburg National Military Park.
The internship is funded at $15/hour up to 1200 hours. It is offered through the National Council for Preservation Education (NCPE). To be eligible applicants must be currently enrolled in an academic program or recently graduated (degree received December 2018, or later).
Please visit http://www.preservenet.cornell.edu/employ/ncpe.php for further background information. (The deadline posted on this link does not apply to this internship.)
For consideration submit a resume and cover letter to Theresa Voellinger at Theresa_Voellinger@nps.gov no later than January 6, 2020.
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