Full time, two-year fixed term contract, Christchurch, New Zealand.
– with periodic work in Antarctica.
Antarctic Heritage Trust is a New Zealand-based not-for-profit with a vision of ‘Inspiring Explorers’.
Through its mission to conserve, share and encourage the spirit of exploration the Trust cares for the remarkable Antarctic expedition bases of early explorers including: Captain Robert Falcon Scott, Sir Ernest Shackleton and Sir Edmund Hillary. It shares the legacy of exploration through outreach programmes and encourages the spirit of exploration through exciting expeditions to engage and inspire a new generation of explorers.
Built between 1899 and 1957, the five expedition bases are located in the Ross Sea region of Antarctica. Described as amongst the most evocative heritage buildings in the world, four of these sites were listed on the World Monuments Fund list of 100 Most Endangered Sites on Earth before the Trust’s intervention, and are protected under the Antarctic Treaty system. The expedition bases contain a combined total of approximately 20,000 artefacts consisting of objects made from materials that include timber, leather, paper, glass and metal.
Since 2006, the Trust has managed a world leading, long term, staged, international heritage conservation project, the Ross Sea Heritage Restoration Project, to ensure the bases and associated artefact collections remain for the benefit of the international community. It has been described as one of the most exciting conservation projects in the world.
Role Objectives
The Antarctic Heritage Trust is seeking an experienced objects conservator to plan, manage and implement the annual artefact preservation and conservation programmes for the combined artefact collections associated with the historic sites in the Ross Sea region under the Trust’s care. The role is part of a small, dedicated and high performing team including the Building Conservation Programme Manager, the Heritage Manager, and reporting to the General Manager Programmes.
Programmes of work are heavily focussed on developing and delivering summer Antarctic field seasons but may also involve the delivery of New Zealand-based conservation projects relating to Antarctic artefacts. Input to conservation documentation and reporting, and permit and programme applications form a large part of the role.
The successful applicant will be expected to work in the Trust’s Christchurch office, with seasonal work in Antarctica subject to passing medical and other requirements.
Role Requirements
The candidate must be entitled to work in Aotearoa New Zealand (hold New Zealand or Australian Citizenship or Residency), or if international, they must apply for and obtain an appropriate Work Visa (independently, and at own expense).
The successful candidate will hold a tertiary qualification in heritage materials conservation (objects or metals in particular) relevant to the social history objects In the AHT collections. A minimum of 2-years recent, post-qualification experience in applied conservation is required. Having English as a first language, or have a high degree of professional fluency will be crucial to be successful in the role. Evidence of English competency may be tested as part of the application process.
We would love to hear from you, if you:
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- Have a desire to work as part of a team on a uniquely challenging and world leading heritage project and make a positive difference.
- Have the ability to think both innovatively and strategically.
- Thrive in a small team environment, and cope well with a fluid work programme and frequent change.
- Are self-motivated, systematic and organised with a strong work ethic and drive to succeed.
- Have a positive outlook, a sense of humour and a “can do” attitude.
- Have a collaborative mindset with strong networking skills.
- High level of personal and professional standards.
- Have the ability to both accept and provide leadership and strategic advice.
- Are a confident and effective written and verbal communicator.
To apply:
1. If you meet the role requirements and the criteria above, please read the full job description.
2. Complete the online application form. Be ready to upload the following information:
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- Professional Resume/ Curriculum Vitae
- Contact details of two professional referees
3. Your application will be confirmed by email with a link to complete a short one-way video.
Salary
A remuneration and benefits package will be provided in negotiation with the successful candidate. Indicative salary range is NZ$75,000-85,000.
If you have any queries about the role, please email k.clarke@nzaht.org
