Responsibilities:

Art preparation

• Install, maintain, and deinstall artworks and associated materials/objects for exhibitions, showrooms, fairs, private viewings, photo shoots, and various offsite projects.

• Work with artists and artist liaisons and in collaboration with the Registrar to develop a sound understanding of display and handling requirements by project, and to implement those requirements.

• Use appropriate materials, tools, equipment, machinery, and methods to handle, display, pack, transport, and store artworks.

• Proper unpacking of artworks for condition reporting and installation.

• Proper packing of artworks for storage and outgoing shipments.

• Collaborate with the Registrar to conduct condition reports and diagnose conservation/restoration needs for artworks.

• Collaborate with the Registrar and relevant roles to manage receipt and release of artworks.

• Responsible for local deliveries and pickups where required.

• Recruit and supervise onsite freelance art handlers and technicians as needed.

• Research, source for, and rent/procure equipment and machinery as needed.

• Ensure the safe and controlled installation, display, and deinstallation of artworks.

• Ensure the safety of people and property/facilities throughout installation, exhibition, and de-installation by establishing protocols and maintaining an understanding of Cal/OSHA policies and procedures.

Technical and fabrication

• Responsible for lighting exhibitions and showrooms, and maintaining a sound understanding of the gallery’s specific lighting system.

• Work with artists and artist liaisons to implement and manage special display and conservation requirements as needed for various types of projects.

• Oversee fabrication of display/installation materials (frames, pedestals, vitrines, temporary partitions, posters, decals, marquee lettering etc.)

• Research and source for appropriate materials, tools, devices, equipment, machinery, vendors, conservators and restoration specialists.

• Manage audiovisual and relevant requirements for talks and events.

• Update the gallery’s technical documentation kit containing floorplans, 3D models and specifications.

Storage and inventory management

• Work with the Senior Directors, Registrar, and relevant roles to plan and organize onsite and offsite storage of artworks, associated objects, merchandise, assets, and supplies in cost-efficient and sustainable ways.

• Collaborate with the Registrar and relevant roles to ensure proper labeling, organization, handling and recording.

• Maintain clean and organized storage conditions.

Facilities maintenance

• Monitor and manage the condition and cleanliness of the property and facilities including the exhibition and back-of-house spaces and property exterior; develop and implement routine maintenance plans including proper temperature and humidity levels, and weather preparedness.

• Arrange and oversee regular servicing to ensure orderly maintenance; manage various vendors including contractors, pest control, cleaning, fire safety, security and IT.

• Monitor and manage supplies of tools and equipment.

Operations

• Work with the Senior Directors, Registrar and relevant roles to plan timelines, workflows, budgets, resource allocation, and procurements for the gallery’s programs, fairs, activities and operations.

• Serve as a resource for operations-related questions and problems as they arise on a daily basis; offer informed recommendations and solutions.

• File and organize relevant contracts, invoices, payment requests, and receipts.

Requirements:

Required

• Minimum three (3) years of experience working in a production and/or installation role at a contemporary art gallery, auction house, museum, or fine art shipping company.

• Knowledge of various artwork media and fabrication materials and methods, as well as familiarity with best practices in art handling and moving, de/installation, un/packing, un/crating and storage procedures.

• Hands-on experience using heavy installation equipment (scissor lifts, forklifts, gantries, large-scale rigging equipment).

• Proven skills in painting or decorative finishes, light carpentry and general construction.

• Knowledge of principles and techniques of art gallery lighting.

• Knowledge of basic audiovisual equipment, including the set-up and care of video projectors and sound systems.

• Proficiency with Google Suite (Gmail, Calendar, Sheets), Microsoft Office and inventory management programs.

• Physical ability to lift up to 75 pounds, to work at elevated heights, and to stand, bend, kneel, and squat for extended periods of time, with or without accommodation preferred.

• Strong hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness and reasoning skills, large and small motor skills, and sensitivity to and understanding of materials.

• Valid California driver’s license and access to reliable transportation.

Preferred

• Minimum five (5) years of professional experience as a preparator and/or art handler, installation technician.

• Knowledge of loss prevention techniques including earthquake mitigation.

• Basic knowledge of art fairs and some experience of related logistics.

• 3D architecture software (SketchUp) and Adobe (Acrobat, InDesign, Photoshop).