Chief Preparator/Exhibition Designer

Tampa Museum of Art

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The Tampa Museum of Art invites applications for an experienced Chief Preparator/ Exhibition Designer. This is a full-time permanent position, available immediately. Successful applicants will have supervisory and museum experience, as outlined below.

The Chief Preparator/Exhibition Designer will report directly to the Chief Curator. S/he will be a vital member of the small but dynamic curatorial team, working closely with the Chief Curator as well as the Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art, the Richard E. Perry Curator of Greek and Roman Art, the Exhibitions and Collections Manager, and the Curatorial Department Assistant. The Chief Preparator/Exhibition Designer will also supervise two Preparators/MOAs (Museum Operations Assistants) in exhibition- and collection-related work.

This role requires significant art handling and museum preparator experience, as well as precise attention to detail, strong communication and analytical skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. The ideal candidate will work well both independently and as a collaborative and diplomatic team member.

Responsibilities
  • Work with other members of curatorial staff to design exhibitions.

  • Work with other members of curatorial staff, including MOAs/Preparators under direct supervision, to safely install and deinstall artworks and other exhibition components.

  • Working from Microsoft Word documents, lay out, print, and install gallery texts.

  • Prepare artworks for display (including matting, framing, mounting, etc.).

  • Install and set up gallery lighting.

  • Check and maintain condition and lighting of artwork on display.

  • As needed, design and fabricate exhibition furniture, casework, and mounts.

  • In collaboration with Exhibitions and Collections Manager, and while supervising MOAs/ Preparators, coordinate and oversee packing, shipping, receiving, and storage of artwork.

  • Plan and coordinate with non-curatorial staff (administration, education, and development) to ensure that all requirements (aesthetic, interpretive, accessibility, conservation, credit, security, etc.) are met.

  • Design and produce exhibition graphics to maintain consistency with Museum marketing materials.

  • Maintain and purchase hardware, tools, and other materials for framing, gallery lighting, and workshop.

  • Local transport of art objects and related materials (using Museum truck).

Requirements
  • Three or more years’ experience working in a museum handling and installing artwork, designing exhibitions, and building exhibition furniture.

  • Supervisory experience in a museum or other professional setting.

  • BFA or BA in art history, museum studies, or other related field, with some knowledge of classical, modern, and contemporary art.

  • Proficiency in MS Office, Adobe Creative Suite, and SketchUp (or similar software).

  • Flexibility to travel and/or work extended hours as needed.

  • Ability to stand and/or work on feet for long periods, lift and carry artworks and other materials weighing up to 100 lbs.

  • Familiarity with shop and framing tools, photography, lighting, computer desktop publishing hardware and software; building construction and maintenance, mechanical maintenance and repair work.

  • Familiarity with museum industry standards and best practices as outlined by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) and the Association of Art Museum Directors (AAMD).

  • Possession of a valid Florida driver’s license.

How to Apply

Qualified applicants should send CV/resume and cover letter including reasons for interest in the position and summary of relevant experience to suzanne.williamson@tampamuseum.org. Indicate the job title “Preparator” in the subject line. Only those applicants who meet our requirements for this position will be contacted. Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.

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Posted on January 14