What are the responsibilities and job description for the Preparator position at McNay Art Museum?
PREPARATOR
FULL-TIME
HOURLY RATE $19.06
Position Overview
Reporting to the Curator of Exhibitions, safely handles, moves, houses, installs, stores, and packs/unpacks the permanent collection and all objects on loan. Assists with the preparation, installation, maintenance, and de-installation of temporary exhibitions and permanent collection installations. Fabricates exhibition components including temporary walls, bases, mounts, and gallery furniture, and assists with gallery lighting and graphics to ensure the safe and effective presentation of artworks in accordance with museum conservation and security standards.
Essential Job Functions
- Safely handles, moves, installs, packs/unpacks, and stores works of art in accordance with proper conservation and security standards.
- Assists with the installation and de-installation of temporary exhibitions and permanent collection rotations, including layout, placement, and presentation of artworks.
- Fabricates and maintains temporary walls, exhibition furniture, bases, vitrines, mounts, and other installation components for galleries and public spaces, including museum grounds.
- Assists with installation and adjustment of gallery lighting in accordance with conservation standards and curatorial presentation goals.
- Assists with the installation and upkeep of exhibition graphics and signage throughout the museum.
- Maintains the appearance and safety of galleries, exhibition furniture, lighting, and storage areas, including regular cleaning and minor repairs.
- Works with the Registrar for Collections and Registrar for Exhibitions to ensure the safe movement and storage of artworks and related materials.
- Operates and maintains tools, equipment, lifts, dollies, and other preparatory equipment safely and effectively.
- Assists with packing, crating, and preparation of artworks for transportation and storage.
- Coordinates day-to-day installation priorities and workflow as assigned by the Lead Preparator and Curator of Exhibitions.
- Provides guidance to contractors during installation and de-installation periods as assigned.
- Performs other duties as required.
Requirements:
Thorough knowledge of art handling and preparation techniques required. Educational and experiential background should demonstrate the ability to safely handle works of art and familiarity with museum conservation, exhibition, and storage standards.
Strong carpentry and fabrication skills preferred, including experience with construction tools, mount making, and exhibition furniture fabrication. Experience with gallery lighting systems and exhibition installation practices preferred.
Other Skills:
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to adapt to changing schedules, deadlines, and exhibition priorities.
- Familiarity with safety procedures, proper lifting techniques, and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Experience operating lifts, pallet jacks, dollies, and other installation equipment preferred.
- Knowledge of museum standards for art handling, packing, and display.
- Must be able to operate a motor vehicle, maintain a valid operator’s license, have proof of insurance, and maintain a good driving record.
- Must be flexible as to working hours; evening and/or weekend duty may be required.
- Ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds on a regular basis. Must pass physical examination.
Education:
Degree in art, museum studies, studio art, construction, or a related field preferred, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Work Experience:
Minimum of two years of museum, gallery, exhibition, or related preparatory/construction experience preferred, including demonstrated experience in art handling, installation, fabrication, and museum-quality construction practices.
Salary : $19