Collections Technician / Art Handler

Cai Studio

caiguoqiang.com

The studio of contemporary artist Cai Guo-Qiang (Cai Studio) is seeking a full-time Collections Technician/Art Handler with a background in fine art handling, shipping, installation, and storage. An ideal candidate is self-motivated, highly organized, skilled in creative and adaptive problem-solving, and capable of prioritizing tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Under the direction of the artist, Cai Studio oversees the fabrication of original artworks, the coordination of public exhibitions, and the conception and production of related publications. The Collections department presides over the artist’s full inventory of artworks (both his own and his collected works). Collections collaborates closely with the studio’s other four departments: Administration, Projects, Archives, and Technical on a regular basis. This role reports directly to the Head of Collections.

Responsibilities

Frequently move, pack, and install artworks of diverse media (often large-scale)
Re-house and modify existing housing for 2-D and 3-D artworks
Participate in artwork inventory projects and catalog new artworks; work closely with the artist and team to ensure artworks are titled, signed, and photographed efficiently
Manage studio framing services; request quotes and liaise with framer, prepare/stage artworks and assist with handling for on-site framing
Work closely with the Head of Collections to manage artwork shipments, prepare condition reports, assist with packing and crating, and oversee loading/offloading trucks
Maintain up-to-date and detailed documentation in the Collections Management System; generate reports, spreadsheets, checklists, and labels; properly archive shipping paperwork, invoices, etc.
Manage and maintain well-organized storage and exhibition spaces, and monitor climate conditions, cleanliness, and pest activity
Manage and organize collections materials, tools, and supplies; and occasionally collaborate with Technical department to fabricate simple storage furniture, carts, or similar
Collaborate with the Head of Collections to plan and implement appropriate collections improvement projects, in accordance with the studio’s priorities (e.g. upcoming exhibitions, long-term legacy planning, ongoing inventory analysis, etc.)

Requirements

Minimum 2 years of experience in an art handling role
Strong knowledge of industry standards for handling, packing, transporting, and storing fine art
Proficiency with tools and moving equipment such as power drills, ladders, pallet jacks, dollies, and J-bars
Experience using a Collections Management System (such as CollectiveAccess, TMS, Museum Plus, etc.)
Proficiency working with spreadsheets Excel, Google Sheets, or similar
Ability to lift 50lbs+ on a regular basis
Ability to work on your feet for extended periods of time, including bending and kneeling
Experience operating heavy machinery such as forklifts, scissor lifts, boom lifts, etc. preferred
Skills in artwork services such as photography, framing, crating, mount-making, exhibition lighting, etc. preferred
Valid driver’s license
Working proficiency of English language
Valid proof of employment authorization in the United States

How to Apply

Please send resume and cover letter (in PDF form) to nystudio.search@gmail.com with “Collections Technician” and your last name in the subject line. Only selected applicants will be contacted.

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