Assistant Art Preparator

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara

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Seasonal temporary position (needed roughly 3 weeks every 4 months). Under the direction of the MCASB Exhibitions Manager and the Lead Preparator, the Assistant Art Preparator must install, maintain, and de-install all exhibitions within the MCASB galleries and maintain the workshop.

Responsibilities

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Help smoothly implement an install and de-install schedule according to specific exhibition needs

  • Work together with Exhibitions Manager and Lead Preparator to implement shipping and pick up/drop off of work at MCASB location

  • Assist Lead Preparator in preparing MCASB exhibitions and exhibition elements: construct exhibition cases, mounts, pedestals, and other exhibition furniture; construct temporary walls; patch, paint, and remodel gallery interior; mat and frame; install, de-install, handle and transport artwork; arrange and replace lighting fixtures; install and remove wall labels and signage; fabricate specialized shipping crates and soft-packing; wrap, pack, handle and load outgoing artwork; and other installation and de-installation related duties, as required

  • Communicate with artists and curators to facilitate installation-based tasks, as needed

  • Maintain Museum workshop, tools, and gallery facility; keep facility clean and make repairs, as needed

  • Assist other Museum staff members with setup and takedown of exhibition-related events

  • Perform other preparatory related tasks, as needed

Requirements

Experience

  • Carpentry, fabrication, and ability to use common power and hand tools required

  • Background in art handling, packing and crating, art transport, and exhibition preparation experience preferred

  • Experience operating material moving equipment (VRCs, forklifts, scissor lifts, material lifts, gantries, and pallet jacks).

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

  • Ability to quickly identify and resolve problems, ensuring installation/de-installation stays on schedule

  • Demonstrated concern for detail, accuracy, and precise execution of work

  • Works well independently and in a team

  • Valid CA license, clean driving record; ability to drive 16’ - 26’ box truck preferred

  • Ability to lift 50 lbs. individually, 75 lbs. as a team, and safely cart artwork within a block

  • Ability to interact effectively with diverse staff, board members, supporters, and community in a courteous and professional manner

  • Ability to address fast-changing priorities and meet deadlines

  • Ability to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends as required

How to Apply

Please send one pdf including resume and cover letter to hello@mcasantabarbara.org with “Assistant Art Preparator_LAST NAME” in email heading.

Contact
Posted on October 1