Assistant Conservator

HeritageSG is recruiting an Assistant Conservator to join its Archaeology Services Unit. Reporting to the Senior Conservator, the Assistant Conservator will contribute to the conservation and care of the Archaeological Collection under HSG’s care, support conservation activities for archaeological excavations, and contribute to the development of HSG’s archaeological conservation capability.

The Archaeological Collection comprises materials recovered from terrestrial and underwater environments through archaeological excavations undertaken over the past few decades,and finds from future excavations. The Assistant Conservator will contribute to the long-term preservation, access, and use of the Collection, and to conservation activities for development-led terrestrial and underwater archaeological excavations.

We seek motivated candidates who are committed to developing as a conservation professional and building a career in archaeological conservation in Singapore. The successful candidate will receive on-the-job training, guided practical experience, and other development opportunities to progressively build the competencies required for the role.

Key Responsibilities

He/She will be working under the supervision of the Senior Conservator, the Assistant Conservator will support collection care, archaeological projects, and the development of HeritageSG’s archaeological conservation capability. The level of supervision and complexity of assigned work will reflect the postholder’s demonstrated competencies. As capability develops, the postholder will undertake work with increasing independence within agreed areas of practice.

Professional development

• Work with the Senior Conservator to identify training and development needs and undertake relevant learning and professional development opportunities.
• Develop an understanding of professional conservation ethics, theory, and practice. Develop practical skills in interventive conservation, preventive conservation, technical examination, and photographic and written documentation.

Conservation support

• Support the Senior Conservator in establishing and implementing workflows and standards of practice for the conservation and care of the Archaeological Collection.
• Assist with the planning, set-up, operation, and maintenance of HSG’s archaeological conservation laboratory, including the organisation, procurement, fit-out, and equipping of the space.
• Work closely with the Senior Conservator, archaeologists, Collection Manager, and other relevant stakeholders to provide conservation support for archaeological excavations, and for care of the Archaeological Collection.
• Contribute to developing and implementing conservation plans covering all stages of projects, from pre-excavation through to post-excavation.
• Provide conservation support across all stages of projects, including finds recovery, material identification, post-excavation conservation, packaging, storage, and documentation. This may also include procurement of the equipment, materials, and other resources required to support the conservation work.
• Where necessary, assist in training archaeologists, volunteers, or other individuals involved in excavations to carry out appropriate first aid and basic care for finds.
• Undertake conservation work for the Archaeological Collection in storage and for display, loan,research, and other forms of access and use. This includes:

• Condition assessment, technical examination, and assessment of suitability of objects for the intended use;
• Identifying, planning, and carrying out appropriate interventive treatments;
• Providing recommendations for preventive conservation aspects such as handling, packing, transport,

mounting, display, and environmental conditions;

• Contribute to decisions on the need for technical examination or scientific analysis. Where specialist capabilities are required, work with appropriate external service providers or institutional partners to obtain the necessary results.

• Prepare conservation documentation, which includes condition reports, treatment proposals, treatment records, and other relevant technical documentation. Maintain this documentation in relevant knowledge management systems.

Research and outreach

• Support and contribute to research relating to archaeological conservation, archaeological materials, and collections care, particularly where this enhances understanding of the Archaeological Collection or improves its conservation, accessibility, and use.
• Contribute to outreach activities relating to archaeological conservation, working with HSG colleagues and relevant partners to increase public and professional awareness and understanding of the conservation of Singapore’s archaeological heritage.

Requirements

• A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional qualification in conservation or a relevant discipline. An equivalent combination of professional training and experience may be considered.
• Prior professional experience in conservation is not required, but experience or training in conservation, particularly archaeological conservation, or a background in archaeology will be advantageous.
• Familiarity with archaeological materials, environmental conditions, and conservation issues relevant to Singapore, Southeast Asia, and tropical climates will be advantageous.
• Chemistry knowledge at ‘O’ Level or above will be advantageous.
• Commitment to developing a career in conservation, and to undertaking training, supervised practical work, and continuing professional development to build the knowledge and practical skills required to perform the role to a high standard.
• Demonstrated aptitude for careful practical work, including good manual dexterity, close observation, attention to detail, and systematic problem-solving.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritise tasks and work across multiple projects.
• A team player with strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with a range of stakeholders.
• Ability to work in laboratory, collections-storage, and archaeological field environments.
• Excellent written and spoken English.
• Ability to produce clear digital records and work confidently with standard office, documentation, and information-management systems. Familiarity with collections management systems, databases, image-capture and photography software will be advantageous.

The Assistant Conservator will be based at Tagore Lane. The role may require working at various locations around Singapore, including outdoor locations, depending on project and operational requirements. The responsibilities listed are intended to describe the principal accountabilities of the role. The postholder may undertake other related duties that are consistent with the role’s purpose and level of responsibility.

Applicants are encouraged to submit examples of relevant technical, craft, or other practical work demonstrating manual dexterity, attention to detail, and ability to work carefully with objects in three dimensions.

Why Join HeritageSG?

Be Part of Singapore's Creative Heritage Force - As a subsidiary of the National Heritage Board under MCCY, HeritageSG stands at the forefront of cultural innovation. We're the creative minds transforming how heritage connects with contemporary audiences.

Shape the Future of Cultural Experiences - Join a dynamic team that blends immersive storytelling with cutting-edge technology. From virtual reality installations to interactive displays, we're pioneering new ways to make heritage accessible and engaging across museums, festivals, and digital platforms.

Work Where Creativity Meets Impact - At HeritageSG, every project matters. Whether you're curating exhibitions, coordinating festivals, or developing digital experiences, you'll contribute to thoughtfully curated experiences that bring heritage to life for millions. Our collaborative environment encourages creative thinking whilst maintaining the highest professional standards.

Grow Your Career in Cultural Innovation - Be part of an organisation that values both tradition and innovation. You'll work alongside passionate professionals who are reshaping the cultural landscape, with opportunities to develop expertise across multiple disciplines – from traditional curation to emerging technologies.

Make Heritage Relevant for Tomorrow - Join us in our mission to ensure heritage remains vibrant and meaningful for future generations. At HeritageSG, your work doesn't just preserve the past – it actively shapes how culture evolves and connects with contemporary society.