Book Conservator

It’s preserving centuries of history for future generations.

It’s feeling supported to develop your expertise. And it’s the pride of working with one of the world’s most significant collections. This is what makes working at the Royal Household so unique.

The Royal Collection, home to over 220,000 books and manuscripts, spans centuries of history and culture. Based at the Royal Library at Windsor Castle, the Royal Bindery is dedicated to the conservation and preservation of these invaluable items.

As a Book Conservator, you’ll play a key role in preserving the Royal Archives and Library collections, working to the highest professional standards and contributing to the conservation of irreplaceable Royal items for future generations.

Key Responsibilities:

• You’ll assist with the preservation and conservation of books and documents within the Royal Archives & Library, ensuring they receive the highest standards of care.
• You’ll independently carry out conservation work, with oversight from your line manager, maintaining attention to detail and professional standards.
• You’ll collaborate closely with colleagues across the Royal Library and Archives to enhance and maintain best practices.
• You’ll document all conservation efforts through thorough written and photographic records.
• You’ll contribute to the Royal Collection’s exhibition programme by ensuring the timely and appropriate conservation of relevant materials.
• You’ll be aware of the optimal environmental conditions for the collection, supporting its long-term preservation.
• You’ll participate in visits and public events, sharing the work of the Bindery and Royal Archives with external colleagues and the public.

Essential criteria:

• You will be experienced in book and paper conservation, whether through a relevant qualification or your hands on experience in a similar role.
• You will have a strong understanding of historic binding styles with practical experience, alongside a thorough knowledge of conservation materials and techniques for treating historic bindings, albums, and documents.
• With excellent manual skills and a keen eye for detail, you will be able to critically assess your own work and maintain high conservation standards.
• Your ability to document conservation work will be supported by strong written and verbal communication skills.
• With excellent organisational skills, you will efficiently manage conservation projects and meet deadlines.
• A commitment to ongoing professional development and a willingness to learn new skills will be essential in this role.

What we offer:

We know that to deliver our best work; we need to feel at our best. That’s why at the Royal Household we offer a generous benefits package designed to support your wellbeing and life priorities.

• Enjoy 25 days annual leave, rising to 30 days (plus bank holidays) dependent on the length of time you have worked for us.
• Our excellent non-contributory pension plan (we’ll contribute 15% and you can contribute more if you wish) is highly valued by our employees, as is complimentary lunch on-site to keep you fuelled throughout the day.
• Flexible and hybrid working varies across different roles, and we’ll discuss the options available to you that will suit both your job requirements and individual preferences.
• We also offer a range of leave options to support your life priorities, such as parental pay and leave and volunteering days, as well as benefits to support your physical and mental wellbeing.
• Other perks include 20% off at our Royal Collection Trust Shops and complimentary admission tickets across all our locations, along with many more exclusive employee discounts.