Preparator

Williamstown + Atlanta Art Conservation Center

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Position Description

The Williamstown + Atlanta Art Conservation Centers (W+AACC) seeks a qualified and motivated Preparator to join our team to assist the Paper, Objects, Furniture, and Paintings Conservators and other staff in their work at our location in Williamstown, MA.

The Preparator assists the conservators and others by tracking object location, receiving, unpacking, unwrapping, unframing, reframing, moving, handling, rewrapping, repacking, and releasing objects to transport providers and clients. They will also assist with team-based projects such as installing, deinstalling, and transporting objects and the maintenance of the woodshop. The Preparator will work with all Williamstown staff and clients and reports to the Director of Operations

Responsibilities

The Preparator’s duties include:

  • Tracking object location within the W+AACC faculty. (10%)

  • Receiving objects entering the Williamstown Center. (15%)

  • Unpacking and unwrapping objects for conservation, analytic, and imaging services. (10%)

  • Unframing and reframing works. (10%)

  • Moving objects as requested within the Williamstown facility. (15%)

  • Rewrapping and repacking objects as requested. (10%)

  • Releasing objects for transport out of the Center by owners and owning institutions. (10%)

  • Assisting in team-based work involving objects, conservation work, and preservation activities which may require use of specialized hand and power tools. (10%)

  • Assisting in transporting objects, as needed. (5%)

  • Attending staff meetings and performing other duties as assigned. (5%)

  • Adhering to all relevant health and safety practices for hazardous materials and tools.

  • Performing care and maintenance of woodshop and preparation studio tools and equipment

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor of Arts degree in Art, Art History, or closely related field from a recognized college or university or a combination of equivalent experience and education.

  • Ability to handle objects of all media, delicate scientific instruments, and hazardous materials with extreme care.

  • One year of related experience handling art objects and working in an art conservation laboratory; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

  • Basic knowledge of equipment, materials, and techniques used in housing, storing, and displaying art objects.

  • Ability to learn knowledge and techniques used in conservation and to use lab equipment and devices used in the labs and in environmental monitoring.

  • Ability to follow specific instructions and to work effectively with other staff and colleagues.

  • Good judgment, a careful approach, and a flexible workstyle are required.

  • Demonstrated physical ability to handle and work on large objects, indoors and outdoors, on ladders/scaffolding, as necessary, stand for prolonged periods, and lift over 50 lbs.

  • Ability to travel offsite for specific projects and stay away several days as needed.

  • Collaboration on projects across specializations is common; the applicant must exhibit effective communication skills, work well in a team setting, be willing and able to learn new techniques, and be able to understand and follow detailed instructions.

  • Must possess a valid driver’s license and credentials permitting legal work in the U.S.

How to Apply

To Apply

Applications are requested as soon as possible. Interviews will begin as qualified applications are received.

Applications should include a letter of interest, résumé, and contact information for three references to Julie Reilly, W+AACC’s Executive Director, at jreilly@williamstownart.org.

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Posted on February 7