Job Description

[What the role is]

You will be part of the team which is responsible for the conservation of paper-based archival records of historical and national significance for their long-term preservation, within National Archives of Singapore (NAS), government agencies, and private collections, to protect the nation\xe2\x80\x99s patrimony. This is an important role in helping Singaporeans connect with history and culture and strengthening their understanding and appreciation of our history, contributing to NLB\xe2\x80\x99s strategic vision.

[What you will be working on]

• Lead assessments and recommendations of the most appropriate conservation and housing techniques for both storage and exhibition purposes.
• Supervise and set standards for NAS\xe2\x80\x99 repositories and other storage environments, monitoring trends, and designing remedial solutions to correct any irregularities.
• Lead risk assessment to ensure proper housekeeping environmental controls, storage conditions and assessment of recommendations needed for records in NLB repositories.
• Support conservation procedures for emergency disaster response and advise internal divisions/departments on conservation measures, and conduct training on salvage procedures and handling for internal staff.
• Participate in NAS cross-divisional projects and external programmes or outreach activities such as public talks, publications, or related preservation training.
• Oversee timely maintenance and upkeep of all machines and equipment in the lab, ensuring relevance and efficiency.
• Initiate research topics, participate actively and represent NAS in international conservation associations and forums.
• Lead consultations with government agencies and donors on condition assessments.
• Curate learning programmes, training and resources for team to stay up to date with developments in conservation.
• Mentors and supervises team of conservators to build a positive work environment.
• Ensure that laboratory practices are up-to-date and reflect professional standards e.g. ISO certification.

[What we are looking for]

• Relevant experience in conservation, collection care, or heritage science. Alternatively, proficiency in the arts, chemistry or any other related field of work will be an advantage..
• Strong interest in and an appreciation of the arts, culture and heritage expected.
• Experience leading a team, with the interest in developing and nurturing talent
• Good judgement and planning skills
• Strong communication skills with confidence in engaging both institutional stakeholders, and tailoring the message to various stakeholders

The successful candidate will be appointed on a 2-year contract in the first instance.

Work locations will be at (i) National Archives of Singapore (NAS), 1 Canning Rise, Singapore 179868

Division: National Archives of Singapore/ Archives Conservation Lab

Government Technology Agency