The On-Call Preparator / Art Handler is responsible for assisting in the safe and efficient internal movement, housing, and installation of collections and loan objects. The On-Call Preparator / Art Handler is a temporary, part-time position. The position is most active during installation and de-installation of museum exhibitions. This position works as part of a team in Exhibitions, as well as closely with staff from other departments and outside contractors.
ABOUT THE HENRY: The Henry Art Gallery was founded as Washington State’s first art museum in 1926, on the principle that art stimulates inquiry, fosters knowledge, and builds healthy communities. Located on the campus of the University of Washington (UW), Seattle, the Henry is internationally recognized as a pioneer in the research and presentation of contemporary art. Learn about our mission and vision: henryart.org/about.
STATUS: Part-time, temporary/on-call; FLSA non-exempt; non-benefitted
STARTING RATE: $20 - $22 per hour, depending on experience
SCHEDULE: On-Call, Tuesday – Friday; Current expected work dates are:
January 8 – April 1, 2023
May 7 – May 28, 2023
June 26 – July 16, 2023
REPORTS TO: Senior Preparator
Assist in the preparation, installation, and de-installation of objects for exhibitions, including matting and framing, and construction of mounts
Assist in construction of housing for art objects
Assist in the processes of proper art handling methods, and art storage practices
Assists in maintaining lighting in exhibition spaces, including changing lamps and transformers as needed; ensuring that lamps are properly focused
Performs additional duties as assigned
This position frequently lifts or otherwise handles large and sometimes heavy objects, operates construction tools, and operates heavy machinery.
Required
Demonstrated experience (typically a minimum of 2 years) handling art, preferably in a museum setting
Experience in the safe operation and maintenance of a variety of hand and power tools, hydraulic lifts, fork and scissor lifts
Ability to read and follow diagrams and schematics
Must be able to work collaboratively within a team; work independently when given a task
Must be flexible, detail-oriented, with excellent communication skills
Desired
Experience with handling, installing, and mounting a variety of 2-dimenstional and 3-dimensional art objects
Knowledge of installation materials and techniques and fine art packing
Experience in the safe operation and maintenance of a variety of hand and power tools, hydraulic lifts, and fork and scissor lifts
Basic woodworking skills is a plus
APPLY: To apply, please send cover letter and resume to opportunities@henryart.org. No phone calls, please.
COMMITMENT TO EQUITY: The Henry acknowledges the historical structures and social dynamics that have continuously oppressed communities of color and we acknowledge our part in institutional racism. We also acknowledge that we are situated on the land of the Coast Salish peoples.
We are actively committed to racial equity and to building a strong foundation of inclusivity and awareness in all we do. We value discourse that brings forward voices and positions that have been – and continue to be – oppressed. We do not tolerate hate speech or actions. We recognize that we are in the process of embodying these values across our exhibitions, programs, and operations; this is our ongoing work. The Henry Art Gallery is a part of the University of Washington. For more information about race and equity at the UW, see washington.edu/raceequity.
Diverse backgrounds make us stronger. We highly encourage Black, Indigenous, People of Color, LGBTQ+, and individuals of all abilities to apply.