Special Collections Preparator
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Reporting to the Special Collections Registrar and Exhibitions Manager, the Special Collections Preparator performs a range of duties related to the exhibition and care of the Boston Athenĉum’s rich and varied special collections. In consultation with the registrar and exhibitions manager, curatorial, and conservation colleagues, this position is responsible for the preparation, installation, and display of special collections in both long-term installations and rotating temporary exhibitions encompassing paintings, sculpture, the decorative arts, prints, photographs, and rare books. The position also supports collections management and planning and participates in the proper storage, maintenance, monitoring, and inventory of special collections, with an emphasis on paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts. This position requires prior knowledge of art handling best practices and health and safety standards. This is an in-person position

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Installs and de-installs exhibitions. Physically handles and installs artwork, loads and unloads trucks, hangs signage, and configures lighting. Uses hand tools, power tools, ladders, dollies, lifts, and related equipment. Packs, unpacks, and crates objects according to professional museum standards.
  • Prepares and maintains the exhibition gallery and other display spaces. Cleans, moves, and installs pedestals, display cases, shelves, platforms, graphics, and exhibition labels. Light painting as needed.
  • Prepares objects for display and storage. Mats and frames objects, including mat cutting, hinging, and frame assembly. Designs and fabricates mounts and custom housing utilizing knowledge of construction methods, use of appropriate adhesives and fasteners, and safe use of tools. Mounts objects, hangs framed artwork, fabricates housing, and completes related tasks as needed.
  • Assists with exhibition planning, layout, and design. Drafts art movement and installation plans.
  • Maintains safe, clean, and well-organized storage and prep areas and adequate supplies for packing, storing, and exhibition prep. Researches and assists with implementation of efficient storage and display methods. Maintains an inventory of materials, tools, and equipment.
  • Participates in the safe transport of art objects throughout the building.
  • When needed, works with contracted preparators, art handlers, and others to safely complete object moves and exhibition installation.
  • Assists Registrar with locating/returning objects to storage, collection inventories, reporting changes/damage to artwork, and collections management and database tasks.
  • Maintains appropriate collection documentation as required.
  • Conducts regularly scheduled inspections of permanent installations, exhibition spaces, and storage areas. Participates in collection maintenance and preventive care as needed.
  • Works closely with special collections, conservation, and facilities staff. Attends regular meetings with the special collections department, exhibition team, and others as needed.
  • Works closely with staff, interns and volunteers, and contractors to ensure the physical safety of the collection.
  • Maintains current knowledge of changing industry standards.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.


QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

  • Bachelor’s degree is strongly preferred. Major or concentration in Museums Studies, Art, or Art History preferred.
  • Minimum of three years experience in art handling, exhibition preparation, installation, and collections care in a museum or special collections setting required.
  • Strong working knowledge of installation methods (mounting, matting, framing) required.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of current professional museum standards and best practices for installation, object care, and packing/crating, including occupational hazards and safety precautions.
  • Experience with the safe use and care of manual and power tools. Knowledge of the use of lifts and other heavy equipment a plus.
  • Some knowledge of and experience with collections management systems such as TMS (The Museum System) or CollectionSpace
  • Working knowledge of Google Suite and Microsoft 360 required. Familiarity with photo editing software such as Photoshop, and design and modeling software such as SketchUp, preferred.
  • Ability to exercise good judgement, confidentiality, and discretion.


  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Proven attention to detail and conscientiousness.
  • Proactive, positive, and collaborative approach to troubleshooting and problem solving.
  • Excellent time management skills and the ability to prioritize work and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Must be able to work independently and collaboratively in a highly professional environment.
  • Flexibility with schedule, such as early mornings, late evenings, or weekend hours, may occasionally be required.
  • Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds.
  • Commitment to fostering a workplace culture of teamwork, diversity, and inclusion.
  • Submit to and pass background check, including criminal history, personal references, employment verifications and Registry of Motor Vehicles (if applicable).


Research shows that women and people from underrepresented groups often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that someone meets 100% of the qualifications for a role. If much of this job description describes you, then please apply for this role

Salary Range: $53,000-$56,000

To Apply: Please submit a cover letter and resume using the following link
https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=0c2172f4-dddf-44f5-9300-133cc1de3cd2&ccId=19000101_000001&lang=en_US

The Boston Athenĉum is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome candidates who will increase our diversity; we encourage candidates of color and all diverse candidates to apply and are committed to hiring individuals who value a diverse and inclusive work environment. The Boston Athenĉum is also committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment. To request a reasonable accommodation, please contact HR Generalist Nora Conley at 617-720-7630 or conley@bostonathenaeum.org.