Conservator

The Archives Management and Information Storage Branch is looking for an individual with knowledge of historical conservation treatment to assist with the planning, coordination, acquisition and management of archival records, and help the providences preserve its heritage for future generations.

What can I expect to do in this role?

You will:

• provide conservation treatment for a variety of archival materials (e.g. documents, maps, prints and drawings, books and photographs) through scientific examination and testing
• protect the irreplaceable collection of fragile records in all formats by monitoring environmental conditions within the Archives and off-site record storage facilities using a variety of monitoring equipment
• analyze and report deficiencies to senior management
• implement a description plan to reflect the organizational structure and functions, and research and analyze records of policy program areas
• deliver specialized advisory services to ministries, agencies, courts, lawyers, police forces, historians and the general public which facilitate access to archival records
• participate in the development and preparation of course content and training materials for preservation of archival materials and conservation treatment
• provide consultative services to staff on how to deal with damaged records and determining the best course of preservation treatments
• assist Archivist on the acquisition and evaluation process for private records for potential donation or appraise government records to determine whether they should be acquired based on the condition of the records
• provide team and group leadership to staff and interns by providing training on archival/conservation practices

How do I qualify?

Technical Knowledge:

• you have knowledge of historical techniques of fabrication, chemical and physical properties of archival materials and conservation principles, practices and procedures in order to determine preservation needs for a variety of archival materials
• you can interpret and apply archives related legislation (e.g. Archives Act, Copyright Act, Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act)
• you demonstrate knowledge of record management theory, practices and policies to provide input to acquisition strategies for government records
• you have knowledge of archival appraisal theory, practices and current trends
• your knowledge of preservation standards, techniques, and practices enable you to plan and conduct the appropriate means of preserving unique and fragile records

Customer Service, Communication and Negotiation Skills:

• you are able to explain complex and technical subject matter to a diverse clientele
• you can provide expert testimony to civil and criminal courts and administrative tribunals about Ontario government record-keeping procedures and Archives appraisal
• your customer service skills enable you to respond effectively to complex inquiries, promote public awareness and consult with stakeholders
• you are able to prepare a variety of technical materials (e.g. briefing notes, presentations and preservation/acquisition reports) and present program/policy options to senior management
• your negotiation skills enable you to conduct interviews with clients seeking documentation about sensitive personal issues

Analytical, Evaluative and Problem-Solving Skills:

• you are able to assess records scheduling and disposition practices for compliance to existing guidelines
• you can develop options and recommendations on program/policy directions, objectives, plans and changes
• you have the ability to provide conservation treatment for a variety of archival materials through scientific examination and testing, and prescribing customized conservation procedures
• you can assess research requests for original records and determine appropriate sources of information

Other Essential Skills:

• your time management and organizational skills enable you to set priorities and meet conflicting deadlines

Please be advised that the results of this competition may be used to form an eligibility list of qualified candidates to potentially fill future vacancies represented by the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU). In accordance with the Collective Agreement, eligibility lists are shared with OPSEU representatives. By applying to this competition, you are providing consent that your name may be shared with OPSEU representatives.

All external applicants (including former employees of the Ontario Public Service) applying to a competition in a ministry or Commission public body must disclose (either in the cover letter or resume) previous employment with the Ontario Public Service. Disclosure must include positions held, dates of employment and any active restrictions as applicable from being rehired by the Ontario Public Service. Active restrictions can include time and/or ministry-specific restrictions currently in force, and may preclude a former employee from being offered a position with the Ontario Public Service for a specific time period (e.g. one year), or from being offered a position with a specific ministry (either for a pre-determined time period or indefinitely). The circumstances around an employee's exit will be considered prior to an offer of employment.

Remember: The deadline to apply is Wednesday, September 20, 2017 11:59 pm EDT. Late applications will not be accepted.

We thank you for your interest. Only those selected for further screening or an interview will be contacted.