Chief Prep Role

Marciano Art Foundation

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The Marciano Art Foundation seeks a hands-on, detail-oriented, proactive manager to oversee all technical aspects of the Foundation’s art handling projects. The Chief Preparator is responsible for museum-quality art handling related to installation and de-installation, including: receiving, packing and unpacking, handling, displaying, and shipping fine art objects; planning and directing the fabrication of exhibition pedestals, props, temporary walls, and other display designs; securing services of outside contractors; ensuring a safe and healthy work environment through knowledge of best practices.

The Chief Preparator will also ensure that exhibitions and artworks are properly maintained. As a member of the Exhibitions Department, the Preparator also serves as a lead Installation Crew member during periods of exhibition rotation. Working in conjunction with the Deputy Director, Exhibitions Manager, and Registrar, the Chief Preparator is a key team member for the Foundation’s ambitious schedule of exhibitions and collection use.

About Us

The Marciano Art Foundation is a space to discover and engage with contemporary art. Through exhibiting a diverse and compelling collection, built by a family that is passionate and dedicated to the arts, and initiating special projects by artists working in all areas of artistic production, MAF aims to encourage curiosity and contemplation of art and the ways it impacts and enriches our lives. The Marciano Art Foundation offers a competitive salary and excellent medical and dental coverage. Our staff also enjoys vacation, sick leave and personal days, free access to a variety of cultural institutions, discounts to our museum store, and a stimulating and collegial work environment.

Responsibilities
  • Provide “on the floor” supervision during installation periods with freelance and preparator crews

  • Oversee the construction of display elements, including plinths, pedestals, and any other hardware

  • Coordinate productive relationships with suppliers and contractors

  • Operate tools and equipment associated with execution of exhibition presentation

  • Encourage a safe, healthy work environment, including proper procedures for utilizing paint, solvents, power tools, lifts, and other materials

  • Assist Exhibitions Manager by providing accurate details for exhibition expenditures for budget forecasting and providing feedback on proposed exhibition scheduling

  • Assist Registrar with maintenance and organization related to the Foundation’s art storage onsite and off-site

  • Manage the freelance preparator hiring process in accordance with best practices, supervise freelance preparators during installation and deinstallation, and administer all invoicing for accurate and timely payment

  • Direct and maintain exhibition lighting with assistance from Building Manager and onsite preparators

  • Co-manage the preparators, in conjunction with Building Manager, for exhibition maintenance and day-to-day operational adjustments

  • Work in conjunction with Building Manager for all construction related build-outs before and after installations

  • Coordinate needed Heavy Equipment rentals/purchases with Building Manager

Requirements
  • Valid California driver’s license

  • Heavy Equipment Certification

  • Bachelor of Arts or Science, with a focus on Art, Industrial Design, Architecture, or Engineering required

  • Ability to work evenings and weekends as necessary

  • Minimum three years’ experience as a gallery or museum exhibition crew member, art handler, or preparator

  • Strong organizational, leadership and interpersonal skills

  • Working knowledge of safety standards and wide range of tools and related supplies required

  • Strong computer skills in both Mac and PC based applications required

  • Prior experience with forklifts and high-reach lifts/machinery required

How to Apply

Interested candidates, please email a resume and cover letter to apply@marcianoartfoundation.org with the subject line “Chief Preparator position”. No phone calls or walk-ins, please.

Contact
Posted on December 19