Plowden & Smith are looking to recruit a Ceramics Conservator to work with Conservation Management, Client Services and the Senior Ceramics Conservator to ensure delivery of high-quality conservation treatments within agreed estimates.
Founded in London in 1966, Plowden & Smith is the largest fine, decorative and contemporary art and object conservation and restoration company in the UK.
In December 2018 we moved to purpose-built premises in Mitcham where our team of experienced and skilled conservators and restorers work on an extensive range of materials. All our object treatments are informed by science and the art of conservation, guided by contemporary ethical considerations and underpinned by industry-recognised standards of best practice. Staff are committed to continued professional development and training.
Key Responsibilities
- Complete high quality conservation treatments of objects made from ceramics, glass and associated materials, on time and sometimes to tight deadlines.
- Provide estimates for conservation work, to company standard, with clear caveats.
- Treatments could include, wet and dry cleaning, consolidation, bonding, filling, repairing, dowelling, preparation of surfaces, recreation of losses, retouching and building up glazes.
- Writing condition and treatment reports.
- Documenting all conservation treatments in line with company processes.
- Liaising with the Conservation Manager and Client Services to ensure the smooth running of your workload.
- Maintain good housekeeping, tidiness, and careful management of resources.
- Work on site as well as in the workshop. This may include major galleries, museums, private homes, heritage sites and storage facilities.
- Work on site for projects of short duration.
- Provide practical conservation advice and guidance to other conservators, client services and clients.
- Work with other departments in the company when necessary.
- Teamwork with the Senior Ceramics Conservator and interns, to ensure work in the department is completed to a high standard.
- Be committed to health and safety policies and procedures.
About You
- You will have a degree in Ceramics and Related Materials Conservation and 2-5 years post qualification experience.
- Reports are a vital part of this role. A clear, concise, technical writing style and excellent IT literacy. Knowledge of Microsoft suite and digital mark ups are necessary.
- You will be a personable and effective team worker with good communication skills.
- Airbrushing experience or commitment to learn the required skill.
- Experience working in private practice is desirable as you will be required to work under your own initiative and effectively manage your workflow to meet deadlines in a fast-paced commercial environment.
- Treatments are carried out both in the studio and in situ, requiring the willingness and ability to travel nationally and internationally as and when required.
How to Apply
For further information or to apply for this position please submit a C.V, digital portfolio and an example of a Condition Report, to [email protected].
Deadlines for applications is the 28 March 2025.
Interviews will take place WC April 7 2025. As we receive a high level of applications, please send applications ASAP if interested.
Please note that you must have the right to live and work in the UK. We cannot support any individual in applying for a visa.