Also called: Archaeological Conservator
Treats 3D objects like sculptures, archaeological finds, metals, ceramics, and even spacesuits.
They might clean a corroded Roman coin, stabilize a cracked ancient pot, or preserve a NASA spacesuit whose rubber is breaking down. Some travel to dig sites.
Estimate based on American Institute for Conservation salary surveys; BLS groups conservators with museum technicians (25-4013, May 2024 median about $50k).
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
Master's degree, about 8 years after high school. Master's in conservation; chemistry required.
Ways in: Graduate school. Training cost: $15k – $60k.
Majors to look at: Art Conservation, Chemistry, Archaeology.
Growing faster than average (about 6% over 10 years). Small field.
Low risk for 10 years. 3D scanning and AI help document; hands-on treatment of metals, ceramics and archaeological finds stays human.
Classes: AP Chemistry, Art 3-D Design or ceramics, Archaeology or world history.
Official data: O*NET occupation 25-4013.
Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.