Preparator, Exhibitions and Collections

Academy Museum (Part-Time)




Job Summary:
Reporting to the Director of Exhibitions and supervised by the Chief
Preparator, this position will work as a shared member of the
Exhibitions and Collections departments as an Art Handler/Installer.
Primary focus will be on preparation and installation of exhibition
galleries, preparing and packing art loans and assisting with
collections handling. Work will include moving/packing/unpacking and
installing works of art for display or storage. Will implement art
handling, storage, and installation strategies with equal consideration
for conservation, aesthetics, safety, and stability issues.

Essential Duties:

  • Install artwork and exhibition material as directed by supervisors, curators, or exhibit design drawings.
  • Move works of art between storage, exhibition, photography,
    shipping, and other department areas employing methods from hand-carry
    to specialized mechanical means, depending on size, weight and
    condition.
  • Perform object handling and related activities including
    cleaning, repairing, assembling objects or architectural elements under
    the supervision of a conservator and/or registrar.
  • Hang, level, and secure paintings, prints, drawings and photographs. Position, mount and secure large and small sculptures.
  • Assist with framing, packing, and unpacking of works of art for transport using established methods and materials.
  • Work with both temporary and special exhibitions to install
    and secure wall panels, platforms, display cases, pedestals, labels
    and signs.
  • Construct and upholster case interior components.
  • Assist with the maintenance of art storage spaces; vacuum
    and dust art storage room and furniture; add or replace materials, as
    needed, to protect or support works while in storage.
  • Assemble prefabricated cardboard trays and other module packing systems for warehousing artwork.
  • Place modularized, packaged artwork onto various shelving and rack storage systems.
  • Perform duties as requested and/or required and according to
    a schedule that might rotate or change to accommodate work demands or
    staffing variations.



Education and Experience:

  • Five years of related work experience and a related degree in the art field.
  • Preferred: B.F.A or B.A; experience with exhibit lighting;
    prior experience working with object and/or painting conservators;
    previous experience utilizing workflow ergonomics and safety practices;
    previous experience in framing/mounting artwork and knowledge of
    framing practices.



Additional Education and Experience:

  • Prior experience installing works of art in a museum or institutional setting.
  • Prior experience moving and handling fragile, heavy works of art with great care and delicacy.
  • Experience with museum-level art handling practices;
    knowledge of archival materials and museum/gallery warehousing best
    practices.
  • Prior experience using a variety of hand tools with extreme accuracy.
  • Previous experience working in a fast-paced environment
    while maintaining a high level of attention to accuracy and detail;
    demonstrated ability to work without close supervision and to
    communicate problems clearly to supervisor.
  • Demonstrated experience working successfully in an active
    team environment, performing rotating tasks while exercising discretion
    and sound independent judgment.
  • Prior experience or willingness to be trained on and utilize
    OSHA approved safety equipment such as respirators and protective
    clothing.
  • Preferred: Some experience with A/V equipment, interactive displays, and digital technology.



To Apply:

Please e-mail a cover letter and resume to: jobs@oscars.org. Indicate Preparator in the subject line.