The MOWAA Trust is an independent, charitable organization that supports initiatives in heritage, the arts and archaeology. Our ambitions span the delivery of world-class research, educational and scientific goals, aligned with a cultural and economic regeneration of the city more broadly. This involves the set-up of a major collections and research facility, the MOWAA Pavilion, and the wider development of a creative district in the heart of Benin City.
Job Overview
As part of our commitment to advancing conservation standards in West Africa, we are seeking an experienced conservator to join our Collections department.
Reporting to the Head of Collections, the Senior Conservator will be responsible for the preventive care of art and artifacts in the collection, as well as providing support for supervised restoration work.
The Senior Conservator is expected to stay informed about advancements in the conservation field and actively engage with the professional community.
This role will also provide expert support for acquisitions, loans, exhibitions, and other key activities essential to the Museum’s operations, fostering a strong culture of collaboration with colleagues in Curatorial, Outreach & Learning, and Facility Management.
Key Responsibilities
Carry out research and apply standard conservation techniques to treat objects in MOWAA’s collections.
Conduct thorough assessments and documentation of objects to monitor their condition and identify signs of deterioration.
Prepare detailed written treatment proposals, condition reports, and treatment reports, including comprehensive photographic documentation.
Work closely with colleagues to plan and execute complex conservation treatments.
Partner with the Collections Management team to maintain accurate records of object locations and conditions.
Support the daily operations and upkeep of the conservation laboratory and collections management facilities.
Provide expert guidance on object acquisition, loans, exhibitions, installations, deinstallations, and deaccessioning processes.
Collaborate with curators and the exhibition team throughout the object mounting and exhibition installation process.
Design and produce custom storage solutions, such as specialized boxes, to protect and preserve objects in the collection.
Stay informed about the latest conservation practices, theories, and advancements in equipment and technology.
Develop and deliver professional training programs for staff and heritage professionals within the West African ecosystem.
Present conservation projects at conferences and contribute to academic publications to advance the field.
Conduct scientific conservation research in partnership with colleagues at the MOWAA Institute.
Key Qualifications
A bachelor’s or postgraduate Degree in Conservation or a related field, with a specialization in object conservation, from a recognized training institution.
A minimum of 6 – 8 years of relevant experience in a recognized heritage institution or equivalent technical expertise and education, with a preference for candidates with experience working with historic collections.
Proven track record of planned and successfully completed conservation treatments.
Active membership in a professional conservation organization.
Familiarity with a diverse range of West African objects, including ethnographic, historical, archaeological, and contemporary art.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a dynamic cultural organization.
Strong focus on accuracy and critical thinking.
Effective time management, organizational skills, and the ability to prioritize tasks under strict deadlines.
Demonstrated capacity to handle multiple responsibilities and communicate effectively with team members.
Strong aptitude for research.