Getty Conservation Intern

Posted: 31-Mar-26

Location: Claremont, California,

Type: Full-time

Categories:

Staff/Administrative

Internal Number: REQ-8013

PRIMARY PURPOSE/GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

In the summer of 2026, for the thirty-third consecutive year, the Williamson Gallery will hire a full-time, ten-week summer intern sponsored by the Getty Marrow Undergraduate Internship program.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

This information is intended to be a descriptive of the key responsibilities of the position. The list of essential functions below does not identify all duties performed by any single incumbent in this position. Perform other duties as assigned.

• Assist in the care and preservation of artworks and objects within the Scripps College collections.
• Work under the supervision of a professional conservator to gain hands-on experience with conservation methods, practices, and equipment.
• Perform conservation treatments (after training) on ceramics, paintings, textiles, and other objects.
• Support the cleaning and waxing of bronze sculptures located on campus.
• Contribute to ongoing preventive conservation efforts for the collections.
• Conduct photo documentation of artworks and objects.
• Prepare condition reports and assist with treatment recommendations.
• Develop a professional conservation portfolio over the course of the internship.
• Build connections with conservators and museum professionals.
• Expand professional network within the conservation and museum field.
• Active support for the College's Principles of Community and Institutional Values in the performance of job duties.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:

Individual must possess knowledge, skills and ability to be able to successfully perform the essential functions of the position or be able to explain or demonstrate how the essential functions will be performed, with or without reasonable accommodation, using some other combination of skills and abilities.

• Basic knowledge of art history, contemporary art practices, or museum/gallery operations.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for interacting with staff, artists, and visitors.
• Attention to detail, particularly when handling artwork, preparing materials, or maintaining records.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and/or familiarity with design tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite).
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.

QUALIFICATION STANDARDS:

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

Candidates must be currently enrolled undergraduate students and have completed at least one semester of college by June 1, 2026.

Must be a resident of or attend college in Los Angeles County.

Students who have already served as Getty interns at the Gallery are not eligible for this internship.

LICENSES / CERTIFICATES:

None.

OTHER:

HOURS & CLASSIFICATION AND STATUS:

This is a temporary status, full-time, 10-week, non-benefits-eligible, non-exempt position.

The regular hours of this position are Monday-Friday 8:00 am-5:00 pm. Hours may vary due to the needs of the College or department. This assignment is expected to begin on or around June 8, 2026 and end on or before August 14, 2026.

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the US. We are unable to sponsor employment visas at this time.

Hourly rate: $17.15. The hourly rate of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty, and training.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

None.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is quiet to moderate.

Physical and Mental Requirements

Ability to maintain good concentration level while dealing with interruptions; attention to details with emphasis on accuracy; capable of giving, receiving, and analyzing information, formulating work plans, and articulating goals and action plans.

Sitting in a normal seated position for extended periods of time. Standing for extended periods of time. Reaching and extending hand(s) or arm(s) in any direction. Finger dexterity required to manipulate objects with fingers rather than the whole hand(s), or arm(s), for example, using a keyboard. Communication skills using the spoken word. Ability to see within normal parameters. Ability to hear within normal parameters. Ability to bend and stoop, for example, to file. Ability to move about. Ability to lift and carry short distances up to 20 lbs., for example to lift or move office supplies, files, books and packages.