Conservator Grade III (National Archives of Ireland)

The National Archives of Ireland is seeking applications from suitable candidates for the position of Conservator Grade III. Successful candidates in this competition will be placed on a panel in an order of merit to fill vacancies which may arise for this position.

The National Archives is a statutory body within the Civil Service with responsibility for preserving and making publicly available the archival records of central government, including Departments of State, the courts, and a range of other State bodies. It was established in 1988, when the National Archives Act, 1986 came into operation. The National Archives operates under the control and management of the Director, who is appointed by and answers to the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media.

When established, the National Archives assumed responsibility for functions and holdings of two older offices: the Public Record Office of Ireland (founded in 1867) and the State Paper Office (founded in 1702).

The archives held by the National Archives date mainly from the 19th and 20th centuries, although some date back to the 14th century. Archives are made available for public inspection in the reading room of its headquarters building at Bishop Street, Dublin 8. Archives are stored onsite at Bishop Street and offsite.

Information concerning the holdings and services of the National Archives is disseminated in a variety of ways, including through publication on its website. Access to archives in digital form is also provided through a range of dedicated websites.

Further information about the National Archives can be found at: http://www.nationalarchives.ie/.

This is an important time for the National Archives as it seeks to discharge significant statutory functions in relation to the acquisition and preservation of records and making them accessible to the public.

The Role of Conservator Grade III

The responsibilities of a Conservator Grade III may include but are not limited to the following:

• Carry out conservation work identified in the annual work programme in line with strategic goals and objectives;
• Develop treatment recommendations, and carry out procedures according to professional standards;
• Carry out conservation repair of archives requested for digitisation, digital photography and filming work;
• Carry out preservation work including surveying collections and the conservation assessment of archive accessions;
• Undertaking preservation activities, including packing; and delivering document handling and preservation training to staff;
• Work with the Senior Conservator to update and maintain the National Archives disaster recovery plan;
• Work with the Senior Conservator to maintain the environmental monitoring of the National Archives premises and other off-site storage with a view to recommending and carrying out intervention as needed;
• Be an advocate for the work of the department through the National Archives website and social media platforms, and engagement with relevant professional organisations;
• Contribute to and represent the National Archives on external networks/projects where appropriate;
• Any other duties identified by the Senior Conservator.

How to Apply

Applicants should submit a completed application form to

personnel@tcagsm.gov.ie by 3.00pm on Thursday, 19th June, 2025.

Information booklet

Download the attached information booklet for more information on eligibility and requirements.

Application form

If you would like to apply for the Conservator Grade III position, download the attached application form.

Privacy Statement

Please see the attached privacy statement regarding personal data provided in connection with this competition.