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Conservation Zero-Hour Worker Pool
Reference: MAY20227138
Expiry date: 2022-06-19 22:59:00.000
Location: South Kensington
Salary: Competitive
Benefits: Pension and other great benefits

Conservation Zero-Hour Worker Pool


The V&A is the world’s leading museum of art, design and performance, and the custodian of an extraordinary collection spanning decorative and applied arts. Core to the V&A’s work is its successful public programme which includes many exhibitions across all our UK sites as well as international tours, loans, and displays. Supporting this busy programme requires us to be able to respond quickly and efficiently to a dynamic planning which often brings together collections from around the world and with unforeseen treatment and display needs.


We have recently resumed full 7-day operation and with this increase in activity we are now establishing a pool of freelance conservators interested in working with us for short-term project work supporting the conservation of objects for loans and temporary exhibitions and displays. Tasks will include:

•    Condition reporting, documentation and surveying objects
•    Specialised object treatments
•    Costume mounting and preparation of textile and fashion objects for display

Early-career conservators with a recognised professional conservation qualification and general object knowledge and handling are encouraged to apply, as are individuals with more specific specialisms. You will be able to demonstrate  practical skills in the conservation of relevant materials (inorganic and organic), work in a collaborative, understanding, and, engaging way.


Our current departmental structure is divided into various specialist teams, including: Books, Paper and Photographs; Furniture, Metals, Frames and Paintings; Sculpture, Ceramics and Glass; Textiles; Textiles and Fashion Display; and Preventive Conservation. In addition to these specialisms we are also interested in hearing from individuals specialising in:

•    Time Based Media
•    Born-digital collections
•    Horological conservation.

Those working on zero hours contracts for the V&A have no exclusivity contract and are free to secure work elsewhere. Remuneration would reflect the complexity of the project but can be expected to fall within the range of £16.50 - £28.00 per hour. Holiday pay will be paid on top of the hourly rate and eligibility to enter a pension scheme also applies. 


Closing date for receipt of applications is Sunday 19 June 2022 at 23.59