Senior Conservator - Objects

Under general direction from the Manager, Conservation Laboratories, manage the daily operations of the Objects Conservation laboratory, including the development and implementation of the Memorial’s conservation and preservation programs, and Work Health and Safety compliance. Manage the work of Object and New Acquisition Conservation staff, contractors, volunteers and interns and assist with their training and development. Maintain contemporary knowledge of and perform conservation practices and undertake research and scientific analysis to determine the authenticity, composition, condition and deterioration processes of objects in the Memorial’s National Collection and related collections where appropriate. Document all condition, conservation and preservation activities on the Memorial’s Collection Management System. Effectively identify and manage risks inherent in collection and subsequent risk to staff in keeping with the Memorial’s Standard Operating Procedures and Collection Management Plans. Liaise with, and help, other conservation labs as required, such as with the conservation of textiles, large technology, painted objects, paper and photographic collections. Participate in multi-disciplinary teams for the delivery of the Memorial’s exhibition and loans program and other projects, establishing and maintaining liaison with other staff responsible for the preservation, care, development and use of collection material, especially regarding the storage, handling and display of objects. Provide conservation and preservation advice to other sections of the Memorial, professional colleagues and to the wider community. Conduct manual handling tasks including movement of a wide range of objects and collection material including but not limited to art and heraldry collections. Lead and contribute to a healthy and functioning workplace culture, upholding the APS Code of Conduct and the Memorial’s Values and Behaviours.

The Australian War Memorial (AWM) combines a shrine, a world-class museum, and an extensive archive. The AWM’s core purpose is to deepen understanding of how war and service shape lives, communities, and our shared humanity. Through the stories and voices of those who served, those who have been impacted, and those who seek peace, we connect past and present — inviting reflection, dialogue, and discovery that enrich Australia’s story for generations to come.

The AWM is a place of remembrance, research, education, and public engagement. Together, we preserve the nation’s memory of war and service while inspiring future generations to reflect on what those experiences mean today.THE ROLE
The Senior Objects Conservator provides specialist expertise in the assessment, analysis, treatment and preservation of collection materials to support the long-term stewardship of the National Collection. The position implements contemporary conservation processes to lead the survey, remedial treatment, preventive conservation, hazard mitigation and documentation for a diverse range of objects, including but not limited to metals, ceramics, wood, plastics, glass and stone. The position supervises staff, contractors and volunteers and participates in Section and Memorial management activities as required.

The Senior Objects Conservator also leads the preparation of the National Collection in support of the Memorial’s exhibitions and loans programs. The role is also responsible for managing the position of the New Acquisitions Conservator role that runs the freezer program, anoxic treatments, rehousing and documentation in coordination with other conservation labs and the broader Collection Services team.

POSITION ELIGIBILITY
- Under section 22(8) of the Public Service Act 1999, employees must be Australian citizens to be employed in the Australian Public Service (APS).
- All applicants external to AWM that are offered employment will be required to successfully undergo a National Police Check, even if they currently hold a security clearance. The check is conducted in accordance with the Australian Government Protective Security Policy Framework requirements.

MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Negative Vetting Level 1 security clearance.
- Tertiary qualifications in conservation are required, as well as considerable practical experience as a professional object conservator.