PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Framing, unframing, matting, hinging, fitting, and securing works on paper, paintings and other framed works in accordance with the Museum’s standards for safely handling works of art in display, transport, and storage.

Assisting with fabrication, care, preservation, and maintenance of collection frames; crafting and installing auxiliary elements such as shadowboxes, spacers/risers, strainers, and specialized installation hardware.

Operating equipment, tools, and machinery in a safe and proper manner; making minor repairs as directed; promptly informing supervisor regarding damaged equipment or the need to replace or service equipment.

Using proper carts and supplies, moves objects in museum galleries, storage, and preparation areas as directed for conservation and framing purposes.

Working professionally and cooperatively with Museum staff, including but not limited to, Conservation, Art Preparation & Installation, Registration, Exhibitions, and Curatorial, as well as contractors, artists, and couriers

Assisting with frame repair (including casting and carving to replace missing parts, gilding, and finishing) according to Museum conservation standards.

Under direction of the Framer/Conservation Specialist, assists Conservators on preparation projects for works on paper and framed works in the Museum’s collection or on loan for exhibition, storage, and travel.

Documenting artwork location changes within framing and storage areas using CMOA’s collections management system, KEMu; accessing artwork information to export forms related to location changes; using scanning and paper form methods.

Receiving and storing deliveries of framing materials such as acrylic, glass, matboard, frame-stock, lumber, corrugated board, and framing hardware.

Assists Framer/Conservation Specialist in cleaning of framed objects on view and in storage; dusting and cleaning glazing and frames.

Understands and adheres to all security rules and guidelines of the Carnegie Museum of Art and Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, as well as regulations stipulated by such agencies as OSHA, TSA, and DHS.

Acting as courier for artwork when required within the U.S. and overseas; following the museums specified practices and procedures for undertaking courier duties.

Working overtime as necessary, understanding that as much advance notice will be given as possible by supervisor.

Performing other various duties, as requested, by supervisor.

QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Bachelor’s degree or relevant certification required. Two or more years of matting/framing experience in a museum setting and a dedicated focus on the care and preparation of works on paper required. Minimum one year working in collaboration with museum conservators required. A valid Pennsylvania driver’s license is also preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Candidate must demonstrate the ability to mat, hinge, fit, glaze, and frame works of art. Must possess a strong understanding of museum standards for conservation, preservation, and object handling. Knowledge of art handling techniques and safety procedures and the ability to tend to progressive responsibilities working with and handling high-value museum objects in a variety of media is required. Basic woodworking skills and knowledge of hand and power tools is required. Candidate must know basic math and demonstrate the ability to read a ruler. Must have a basic understanding of paper and frame conservation and maintain knowledge of current methodologies in framing, installation, packing, crating, and archival materials. Some evenings and weekend hours may be required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Must have good dexterity, hand eye coordination, and the ability to climb and work on ladders for extended periods of time; to reach work with hands above shoulder level; to lift heavy objects (50 lbs.); and to stand or to walk for a standard work day.