As a Senior Art Handler, you will be the on-site lead for all assigned projects. As the client liaison in the field, you will be the face of the company when interacting with clients. Team leads are responsible for leading installation, packing and transportation teams, and as such are responsible for successful project completion and client satisfaction. Senior Art Handlers are responsible for training new and junior art handlers in the craft and applying knowledge of the safe and secure movement of artworks and artifacts. Together with the project manager, you will plan all aspects of preparation, packing, transporting, installation/deinstallation and storage of works for clients. The ideal candidate understands that the safety and security of objects and of fellow team members is critical to both individual and company success and can teach this to all art handlers under their guidance. You will report to the local manager and work daily with project managers and other members of the management staff within the company. All Art Handlers are required to maintain a clean driving record and will regularly be required to drive company vehicles for installations in the region.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Understanding and execution of art handling fundamentals, practices, and safety
Pickup and delivery of a wide range of works (sculpture, paintings, media) and mediums (i.e.: paint, mineral, organic)
Installation and deinstallation of works as directed by clients in various settings: residential, commercial, corporate, institutional
Professional installation of work, including use of proper tools and hardware
Lead other handlers in the field, assign tasks and roles onsite and ensure client satisfaction during and at completion of jobs
Train and mentor new and junior art handlers in best practices and industry standards
Communicate directly with clients via phone, email, and in person onsite and maintain Art Work’s high expectations for customer service
Communicate with project managers, team members and dispatch personnel as needed to efficiently complete requests and update management or clients
May provide some recommendations on design and aesthetics when requested by clients
Complete required paperwork to ensure accuracy (work orders, inventories, bills of lading, condition reports and other required operational documents)
Demonstrate understanding and use of both paper and electronic forms, proprietary and operational software
Drive locally and complete electronic logging as required. CDL license not required. After hours, weekend work and some overnight/travel may be required.
Maintain a clean, safe and respectful work environment both at the warehouse and in the field
Must adhere to proprietary agreements: confidentiality, non-disclosure, privacy, security, and other employment provisions, as required to maintain the utmost in security
Required Qualifications:
4+ years of art handling experience in a museum, gallery, artist studio, private collection or similar environment
High school diploma/GED required. Bachelor’s degree in studio art, museum studies, or related art field is preferred
Familiarity with standard museum practices, terminology, and art history
Understanding of archival and other packing materials for various mediums
Must pass complete background check
Must be able to complete TSA CCSF training and obtain an STA (Security Threat Assessment) number
Possess advanced forklift and scissor lift certifications
Possess rigging certification
Possess driver’s license and maintain a clean record
Compliance with DOT commercial driver requirements (non-CDL)
Proficiency with hand and power tools
Working knowledge of outdoor sculpture materials
Ability to carry out work required in lifting and transporting artworks
Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds, and up to 100
Preferred Experience:
Advanced rigging experience
Awareness of local guidelines for contractors and related building trades – limitations and best practices for working with other contractors or sub-contractors
The ability to perform beginner to mid-level carpentry and/or construction. Contractor’s license not necessary