Senior Conservation Technician, Duke University

Senior Conservation Technician, Special Collections, Library Assistant, Sr. Occupational Summary

Under the supervision of the Head of the Conservation Services Section, performs a variety of basic and intermediate conservation treatments and creates custom housings for materials from the library's special collections and archives. Manages the registration process for materials sent for conservation, manages the supply inventory and orders. Works with a moderate degree of independence.
Responsibilities

* Assesses damage to library materials; performs basic and intermediate treatments on special collections materials; documents treatments with photographs and written reports as appropriate. Constructs custom fitted enclosures following established guidelines and procedures; encapsulates fragile documents. Works independently but consults with Head of Conservation Services to prioritize treatments and resolve problems. (70%)
* Manages the registration process for materials transferred to and from Conservation. (10%)
* Manages the order and receipt process for departmental supplies. (6%)
* Assists in developing workflow for conservation program and department; assists in presenting preservation education and outreach programs for the library. (5%)
* Assists in preparing materials for exhibits including creating proper supports for both books and paper materials. (3%)
* Participates in disaster response team for the Library, and in training other members of the disaster response team. (1%)
* Performs other duties as assigned. (5%)

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

* May train, supervise, and/or make work assignments for student assistants.

Qualifications
It is the expectation that all Duke University Library staff members will demonstrate exceptional workplace behaviors in the execution of their specific position responsibilities. These behaviors are customer focus, collaboration, creative problem solving, continuous learning and a commitment to diversity.

Education
Required: Two years post secondary education and/or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.

Experience
Required:
Minimum one year experience working in conservation of rare or valuable books and paper artifacts either in a library/archives setting or in a private conservation lab. Requires applied knowledge of library or archival preservation; experience with binding and repair procedures; ability to handle sharp tools and large bindery equipment; able to manage multiple projects simultaneously; excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills; able to work independently and as a member of a team; demonstrated proficiency using computer based technology and ability to adapt to new technologies; and ability to effectively organize and prioritize daily work.

Preferred:
Prior experience working in an academic research library; well-developed treatment skills and awareness of current conservation philosophy and ethics; demonstrated commitment to AIC standards of practice; student supervisory experience and experience with digital photography.
Working Conditions

* Ability to lift at least 30 pounds and unpack, shelve and shift large quantities of library materials with or without reasonable accommodation;
* Ability to perform intricate treatments which require strong visual acuity, superior hand/eye coordination and excellent fine motor skills;
* Must be able to push a full book truck;
* Must be able to work in an environment in which exposure to materials containing dust and mold is likely;
* May include use of various chemicals under controlled conditions;
* Frequent bending, crouching, stooping;
* Occasional weekend shifts required in the case of an emergency affecting the library collections.

These statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the employee in this position. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of a person in this position.
Job Level/Pay Rate

Job Level: 08
Job Classification: 0414/Library Assistant, Senior
Minimum Hiring Rate: $14.26

Benefits
Comprehensive benefits package upon eligibility includes vacation, 13 holidays, sick leave, health, dental, disability, life insurance, educational assistance, and tuition grants.

Environment
Since its founding in 1924, Duke University has grown into one of the most prestigious private universities in the world and its medical center ranks annually among the top in the nation. The Duke University Libraries are the shared center of the university's intellectual life, connecting people and ideas. The Libraries consist of the William R. Perkins Library and its branches: Rare Book, Manuscript and Special Collections, Lilly, and Music and the library at the Duke Marine Laboratory in Beaufort. Duke's library holdings of 6.1 million volumes are among the largest of private universities in the United States.

Duke's hometown is Durham, North Carolina, a city with vibrant research, medical and arts communities, and numerous shops, restaurants and theaters. Durham is located in the Research Triangle, a growing metropolitan area of more than one million people that provides a wide range of cultural, recreational and educational opportunities. The Triangle is conveniently located just a few hours from the mountains and the coast, offers a moderate climate, and has been ranked among the best places to live and to do business.

Duke offers a comprehensive benefit packages which includes both traditional benefits such as health insurance, leave time and retirement, as well as wide ranging work/life and cultural benefits. Details can be found at: http://www.hr.duke.edu/benefits/
Application
Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

An electronic resume should also be submitted at: http://www.hr.duke.edu/jobs/. Refer to requisition #400448829.

http://library.duke.edu/jobs/conservationtech.html