Conservator (6118U), Government & Community Affairs - 85213

About Berkeley

At the University of California, Berkeley, we are dedicated to fostering a community where everyone feels welcome and can thrive. Our culture of openness, freedom and belonging make it a special place for students, faculty and staff.

As a world-leading institution, Berkeley is known for its academic and research excellence, public mission, diverse student body, and commitment to equity and social justice. Since our founding in 1868, we have driven innovation, creating global intellectual, economic and social value.

We are looking for applicants who reflect California's diversity and want to be part of an inclusive, equity-focused community that views education as a matter of social justice. Please consider whether your values align with our Guiding Values and Principles, Principles of Community, and Strategic Plan.

At UC Berkeley, we believe that learning is a fundamental part of working, and provide space for supportive colleague communities via numerous employee resource groups (staff organizations). Our goal is for everyone on the Berkeley campus to feel supported and equipped to realize their full potential. We actively support this by providing all of our full-time staff employees with at least 80 hours (10 days) of paid time per year to engage in professional development activities. Find out more about how you can grow your career at UC Berkeley.

Departmental Overview

The NAGPRA Repatriation Team reports to the Assistant Chancellor, Government and Community Relations. The Government and Community Relations (GCR) office builds relationships with community leaders, elected officials, government agencies and third-party advocates to further the mission of UC Berkeley in the public sector. The issues of primary focus for the GCR team include student financial aid, admissions, scientific research, Tribal relations and other policies at the forefront of higher education and government. GCR also coordinates the University's response to a wide range of political and policy issues, and advises administrators and faculty on strategies to gain constructive dialogue with government, Tribal nations and community leaders.

Position Summary

Under general supervision of the Director for Repatriation and NAGPRA Program Manager, and as part of the UC Berkeley NAGPRA team, the incumbent supports policy compliance, conservation, documentation, and reporting requirements in support of the campus' repatriation obligations, set forth by the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) of 1990, the California Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (CalNAGPRA) of 2001, and the University of California systemwide policy on Native American Cultural Affiliation and Repatriation.

The incumbent supports research of new, pending, and changing systems, programs, and guidelines related to relevant Federal regulations, industry practice, and conservation standards, as pertinent to NAGPRA/CalNAGPRA. The incumbent also performs routine duties such as conservation-related filing and data management, and answering requests from other institutions, descendant communities, and other stakeholders. The incumbent responds to requests for treatment plans and/or in-person collaboration with Collections and Registration staff for NAGPRA/CalNAGPRA purposes.

Application Review Date

The First Review Date for this job is: April 14, 2026

Responsibilities

Pesticide Testing and Remediation (30%):

• Develop and manage protocols for non-destructive testing of collections for contaminants using pXRF and mass spectrometry.
• Interpret scientific data for non-technical audiences.
• Provide safety recommendations, and implement treatments to ensure cultural belongings are safe for handling under tribal guidance.

Repatriation Preparation (30%):

• Review objects requested for return and provide recommendations as part of transfer plans.
• Oversee condition reporting when requested through consultation.
• Provide expert advice to NAGPRA staff and tribal partners regarding the packing, shipment, risks and opportunities for reanimation and/or end-of-life options for cultural items, and long-term preservation of cultural belongings when requested.

Documentation and Reporting (20%):

• Maintain detailed conservation records within the Collections Management System.
• Generate reports on treatments and costs for campus leadership, tribal governments, and regulatory audits.

Collections Care (10%):

• Incorporates duty of care guidance throughout all facets of collections care, prioritizing Indigenous care protocols and Tribal expertise.
• Supports the maintenance of collections facilities and integrated management systems necessary for the preservation and care of belongings, guided by tribal stewardship requirements and adhering to federal curation standards and UCOP policy.
• Assists in the planning and upkeep of University collections storage spaces.
• Offers expert opinion in response to tribal inquiries concerning planned facilities for repatriated and held-in-trust collections.
• Shares oversight of contractors within museum spaces to assure safety and security of collections.

Budgeting (5%):

• Create and monitor budgets for treatment, packing, and shipping.
• Coordinate with the registrar to project costs associated with the transfer of belongings.

Professional Development (5%):

• Stay current on NAGPRA/CalNAGPRA legislation, modern conservation methodologies, and evolving tribal stewardship practices through training and conferences.
• Participates in professional forums and collaborative groups to share knowledge and best practices.

Required Qualifications

• Applied Scientific Knowledge: Proficient in applying chemistry, physics, materials science, and biology to develop conservation studies and treatment plans.
• Pesticide Expertise: Knowledgeable about the history and application of pesticides and preservatives within museum environments, and demonstrated capacity to communicate potential health risks and possible remediation options.
• Foundational Cultural Knowledge: Possesses a strong grasp of North American cultural history and the craftsmanship and materials traditionally used by various communities, artists, and makers.
• Tribal Relations: Skilled in navigating government-to-government frameworks while upholding the protocols and rights associated with Tribal Sovereignty.
• Community-Led Preservation: Capable of prioritizing treatments based on community guidance, emphasizing spiritual and cultural contexts over purely material concerns.
• Technical Skills: Demonstrates manual dexterity and studio arts skills for the treatment of diverse materials in consultation with Tribes.
• Professional Communication: Maintains advanced oral and written communication skills.
• Visual Proficiency: Possesses strong visual acuity.
• Documentation: Proficient in basic photography for recording purposes.
• Project Management: Demonstrated ability to manage project budgets and timelines accurately.
• Leadership and Collaboration: Exhibits supervisory skills and the ability to work collaboratively to set organizational priorities
• Master's degree in Conservation, or equivalent experience/training, and 2 years of post-graduate experience.