Art Handler - Preparator 1

The Art Handler supports exhibition installations, deinstallations, and gallery maintenance across SAM’s sites. This role assists in the safe handling, movement, and installation of artwork, as well as in preparing gallery spaces, performing construction tasks, and maintaining tools and workspaces.

Working closely with the Exhibition Designer, Lead Art Handler, and colleagues in installation, registration, conservation, and photography, this position plays an important role in ensuring the safe and effective presentation of SAM’s collection and exhibitions.

FLSA STATUS: Full Time, Non-Exempt
REPORTS TO: Exhibition Designer
COMPENSATION: $28.32 – $31.44 per hour
WORKPLACE TYPE: On-Site

You’ll ensure the safe and professional installation of SAM’s exhibitions and collection by:

• Assisting with case layouts and gallery preparation for temporary and permanent installations.

• Installing and deinstalling artwork using proper art handling, hanging, and movement techniques.

• Performing gallery preparation including painting and on-site construction.

• Maintaining the workshop, tools, and materials, including inventory across exhibition and storage locations.

• Supporting colleagues across installation, mountmaking, registration, and photography as needed.

• Participating in special projects such as emergency procedures, building renovations, and long-range planning.

• Contributing to SAM’s commitment to welcoming, inclusive, and exceptional service for visitors and colleagues.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in liberal arts, art history, studio art, design, museum studies, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Two years of exhibition installation experience.

• Knowledge of basic art handling, conservation, registration, and art security requirements.

• Carpentry skills and experience using hand tools, power tools, and heavy equipment.

• Knowledge of database fundamentals.

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

• Professional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to tailor communications to different audiences.

• Strong time management, problem-solving, and organizational skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Zoom, Asana, Slack, and internet-based research.

• Experience with computer-aided design programs such as AutoCAD, VectorWorks, or Revit.

• Ability to pass and maintain security background check clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Three years of exhibition installation experience.

• Experience working in a fine arts museum.

• Familiarity with modeling software (Rhino, SketchUp) and Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, etc.).

• Valid Washington State driver’s license.

We come together to contribute our unique talents towards connecting art to life. We take our passion for the arts and personal connections to the mission and channel it into our employee, visitor, and partner experience. We hold with care our impact on the local community, the arts and culture sector, and beyond. We know we’re at our best when we create an inclusive and equitable workplace and museum that reflects our plurality.

The following guide how we work together:

• Be Accountable – Deliver exceptional work with strong organization, time management, and communication.

• Be Collaborative – Value diverse perspectives and prioritize collective success.

• Cultivate Innovation – Stay open to change and explore creative solutions.

• Bring a Learning Mindset – Remain curious, humble, and open to feedback.

• Lift Each Other Up – Empower, support, and celebrate colleagues and teams.

This role is typically scheduled for business hours, Monday–Friday, with occasional evening and weekend work required to support exhibition schedules and special projects.

• Exposure: Work primarily indoors in galleries, warehouses, and workshops, with occasional outdoor work. Noise levels range from light to excessive. Exposure to dust, fumes, or potentially toxic materials (e.g., pesticide residues); PPE and training provided.

• Stationary Work: About 15% at a desk; 85% moving in gallery and storage spaces. Extended periods of standing may be required.

• Communication: Clear and effective verbal and written communication in English with artists, staff, and colleagues required.

• Vision: Ability to use computer screens and read printed materials.

• Office Work: Regular use of computers, phones, and office equipment.

• Lifting/Carrying/Pushing/Pulling: Ability to transport up to 50 pounds of equipment and supplies.

• Working at Heights: Ability to work on ladders and scaffolding, and safely operate personnel and scissor lifts.

The Seattle Art Museum will consider reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions/duties of this position. If you would like to request an accommodation, please contact hr@seattleartmuseum.org