Packing and Crating Specialist

Art Work Fine Art Services

artworkfas.com

As a Packing Specialist, you will be responsible for applying your knowledge of the industry practices of safe packing, handling and transportation of all manners of fine art and antiques. The Packing Specialist will be called on to pack delicate and sensitive objects of all types and sizes and should have experience with a wide variety of materials, mediums and techniques. This role is responsible for completing projects, large and small, both in the field and in-house, from initial site visit and estimation to completion.

The Packing Specialist will be the on-site lead for many packing-intensive projects or may focus on challenging items as part of a larger crew. The Packing Specialist will also build crates, prepare crate interiors, and support the handling team on a variety of projects including installation and transportation.

In addition to packing artwork, the Packing Specialist role also includes internal and client-facing communication, vendor and subcontractor communication, materials and practices research, and estimate creation and follow-up. The Packing Specialist reports to the Operations Manager and works closely with the Crating and Special Projects Manager. A positive attitude, strong work ethic, proactive nature and professional demeanor are necessary.

Responsibilities

Primary Responsibilities

Plan and execute packing of complex and fragile artwork safely and efficiently.
Explain packing plans and techniques to others, verbally, with drawings, or demonstrations.
Lead crews on large packing projects and/or perform as specialist as part of a larger crew.
Complete site visits to assess artwork at private homes, museums and businesses with a high degree of accuracy to formulate packing/crating plans.
Communicate internally (with co-workers) and externally (with clients, vendors and subcontractors) to support projects.
Prepare crate interiors to the desired specifications, including but not limited to insulation, cushioning, support, strapping, blocking, bracing, etc.
Prepare instructions for complex crates, so that they can be safely unpacked and/or reused at destination.
Ensure all needed documentation and paperwork is properly completed for each project.
Operate box trucks and cargo van. Clean driving record required.

Requirements

5+ years art handling experience in a museum, gallery, FAS, or equivalent environment.
4+ years experience packing a wide variety of mediums according to industry standards is required.
Minimum of 1 year leading projects and crew.
High level of familiarity with standard museum practices, industry standards, and terminology. An understanding of archival and other packing materials to uphold best practices.
High school diploma/GED required. Bachelor’s Degree in studio art, museum studies, or related art field is preferred.
Precision and care are required in every fabrication. Take pride in your work and consistently complete quality packing of objects that travel around the world.
Excellent communications skills (internally and externally) via phone, email, in person and onsite. Maintain Art Work’s high expectations for customer service.
Must be able to lift 50# minimum and safely carry large, heavy sheet materials.
Basic MS Office suite skills required. Demonstrate understanding and use of both paper and electronic forms, proprietary and operational software.
Travel to clients’ homes and businesses to assist road team on as-needed basis. Drive locally and complete electronic logging as required. Clean driving record is required.
After hours, weekend work and some overnight/travel may be required.

How to Apply

Please see website for full listing and email for any questions.

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