Manager of Matting & Framing

Carnegie Museum of Art

carnegieart.org

The Manager of Matting and Framing is responsible for the repair, fabrication, modification, and general use of frames at Carnegie Museum of Art. This encompasses a wide range of frame styles and periods, and the work is done in support of exhibition, storage, and travel.

Working closely with the Conservator of Paintings and the Senior Manager of Conservation, the Manager of Matting and Framing collaborates with both in-house and contract Conservators and Curators when preparing works on paper and paintings for exhibition and storage; this includes matting, hinging, mounting, glazing, and framing.

The Manager of Matting and Framing oversees Carnegie Museum of Art’s matting and frame shop, and associated tasks include managing the operations of framing at the Museum, creating and managing the shop workflow, maintaining the supply inventory, and managing temporary framing technicians, as needed. Collaboration with other staff and departments across Carnegie Museum of Art is required; partners include Art Preparation & Installation, Registration, Exhibitions, Collections Information, Curatorial, Design & Publishing, and Education.

As a member of the Conservation department, the Manager of Matting and Framing is expected to take a proactive role in the preservation of the Museum’s collections. The Manager of Matting and Framing will have professional development when relevant to upcoming projects.

Responsibilities

Framing, unframing, fitting, and securing works on paper, paintings, and other works in frames in accordance with the Museum’s standards.

Maintaining collection frames (including historic frames) fabricating new frames and frame components; installing auxiliary elements such as slips, buildups, backing boards, and both acrylic and glass glazing.

Repairing frames (including casting and carving to replace missing parts, gilding, finishing) according to Museum standards.

Working in close collaboration with Conservators to prepare framed works in the Museum’s collection or on loan, where applicable, for exhibition, storage, and travel

Reviewing and assessing framed works in the Museum’s collection requested for outgoing loan.

Maintaining written and photographic records within data management systems; entering matting/framing information into CMOA collections management system, KEMu, in digital format, where information can be recorded, viewed, and shared across the Museum.

Maintaining supplies, tools, equipment, and storage spaces.

Managing the Frame shop, workflow, and any Frame shop staffing, to meet Museum schedules and deadlines

Utilizing and updating the Museum’s Asana project management system to track and communicate project status

Creating and managing framing budget(s).

Coordinating frame production with third-party vendors.

Working collaboratively with in-house and contract Exhibition Designer(s) to create safe and elegant frame, display, and mounting systems for objects in exhibitions.

Advising on the installation of objects regarding framing and mounting for purposes of display.

Assisting Conservators and Preparators with installations and deinstallations of permanent collection-based and temporary loan-based exhibitions, as necessary.

Assisting in daily gallery monitoring including the visual inspection and maintenance of framed objects on display and in storage.

Dusting and lightly cleaning framed collection objects as needed under the direction of the Senior Conservation Manager.

Operating equipment and tools in a safe and proper manner; making minor repairs to equipment as directed,

Maintaining safe, clean, and orderly work and storage environments.

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.

Understanding and adhering to all security rules and guidelines of Carnegie Museum of Art and Carnegie Museums, as well as regulations stipulated by such agencies as OSHA, TSA, and DHS.

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.

Requirements

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Bachelor’s degree or relevant certification required.

Five or more years of matting/framing experience in a museum setting is required, as is at least three years working in collaboration with museum conservators.

A valid Pennsylvania driver’s license is also required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

Candidate must possess a strong understanding of museum standards for matting, framing, and object handling.

Experience with both conservation hinging styles and non-adhesive mounting methods for works on paper is expected.

The successful candidate will have the demonstrated ability to fit paintings into frames.

Advanced woodworking skills and proficient knowledge of hand and power tools is required; this includes power saws, routers, compressors, sanders, drills, hand chisels, gouges, carving tools, planes, files, and clamps.

The ability to sharpen, maintain, and carry out basic repairs of these tools is desired.

Experience working with glass, acrylic, and poly-carbonate glazing is required. This includes knowledge of safe and accurate cutting methods.

Basic mathematical abilities are required.

Candidate must have the ability to work in an organized and efficient manner in managing priorities and meeting deadlines while adhering to the Conservation Department’s standards for care and attention to detail in carrying out tasks.

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 workday.

How to Apply

Please submit all application materials through the Carnegie Museums Career Site.

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