Conservator
Save works of art and historic objects for future generations. Use special techniques to preserve and restore them from disintegration.
About the job
What it's like
You would save works of art and historic objects which are in danger of disintegrating so future generations can enjoy them.
You’d apply scientific and artistic techniques to preserve and restore the objects. You need to pay careful attention to the smallest details. You would also make sure the objects are stored and displayed in the right way.
You could work with a wide range of objects but would usually specialise in one area such as paintings, textiles, leather, furniture or ceramics.
You would:
Carefully examine objects to identify any damage and its cause
Preserve objects to stop deterioration and ensure they stay in good condition
Restore objects to make sure that original characteristics are not lost
Check that the storage and display conditions protect objects from damage by light, humidity, temperature or air pollution
Keep written and photographic records
You would learn to use a wide range of specialised scientific methods, materials and equipment.
Hours
You would work around 37 to 40 hours a week, Monday to Friday. As a self-employed conservator, your hours would depend on the amount of work you have, and you may need to work to deadlines.
Environment
You would usually be based in a laboratory or workshop, although you may do some conservation work (such as stone masonry) on site. You may spend time in museums, art galleries and private houses, giving advice on collections.
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Top skills
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It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Top specialised skills
These are the top specialised skills that have been found in job vacancies across Scotland. From March 2024 to March 2025.
- disaster planning
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- job evaluation
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Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- evaluating
- creative
- observation
- researching
- verbal communication
- understanding
- attention to detail
- filtering
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Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Art and Design
Classical Studies
Creative Arts
Environmental Science
History
Most employers look for a degree (SCQF level 9/10) or postgraduate qualification (SCQF level 11) in a conservation subject, and which demonstrate a strong interest in history, art and scientific approaches to preservation such as:
History
Art history
Archaeology
Museum Studies
Science-based subjects such as Chemical and Material Science
You can enter Higher National Certificate (SCQF level 7) or Higher National Diploma courses (SCQF level 8) with National 4/5 qualifications and one to two Highers or equivalent qualifications.
Entry to a degree (SCQF level 9/10) usually requires a minimum of four or five Highers or a relevant HNC/HND. Higher Chemistry or equivalent is required for entry onto some courses. Voluntary work experience is also sought after. You can find a list of relevant courses on the Institute of Conservation (ICON).
Postgraduate courses normally require at least a 2:1 honours degree for entry. Some will allow entry without a first degree if you have equivalent experience and skills. Some courses require work-based experience.
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