Career pathway

Conservator

ANZSCO 234911

Employed

530

Part-time share

41%

Female share

70%

Median age

48 yrs

Source: Jobs and Skills Australia · ABS 2021 Census of Population and Housing.

Salary and some workforce figures are suppressed for this occupation because Jobs and Skills Australia / the ABS do not publish estimates for small populations (typically fewer than 50 employed people) or because the figures have been perturbed for privacy. They are shown as unavailable rather than zero.

About this career

Conservators plan and organise the conservation of materials and objects in libraries, archives, museums, art galleries and other institutions.

What they typically do

Researches history of items.
Analyses and test items to determine the material they are made of, their condition, and to confirm their identification and authenticity.
Consults with curators, owners or custodians about items.
Takes photographs of items before and after treatments.
Chooses the best method of treatment and treats items.
Keeps records of all decisions and the results of any treatments carried out.
Is involved in the disaster recovery of items (treating items that are water damaged).
Researches aspects of conservation such as the materials and techniques used to create a group of artefacts.
Ensure items going on exhibition are in good condition.
Advises staff or collectors on how to best care for artefacts, including how to store, display and transport them.
May advise and consult with community groups, over the treatment of cultural artefacts.

States and territories

Share of workers by location

NSW

35.1%

VIC

22.8%

ACT

15.7%

QLD

9.3%

6.8%

TAS

2.5%

1.3%

Qualification pathways

These accredited qualifications can lead to a career as a Conservator.

No qualification pathways published on training.gov.au yet.