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Responsible for the handling of works of art and objects both in the permanent collection and on loan; tasks include movement, installation, deinstallation, packing and un-packing, storage of objects, carpentry, framing, lighting, and maintenance of gallery spaces (i.e. Silver Clouds maintenance, dusting, checking AV in galleries, etc.) and storage areas. Art Preparators at the Warhol Museum also act as Couriers and are responsible for the safe transport of Artwork from the collection to venues domestic and foreign. The person who holds this position performs a critical role with the museum and collection by ensuring the safe handling and movement of all types of works of art.
This position is estimated to start mid-March and run through May.
Responsibilities
QUALIFICATIONS:
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Must be highly organized, self-directed, dependable, and careful, with good interpersonal communication skills.
Must be punctual with good time management skills.
Must have the ability to work independently (with little/no direct supervision).
Must also possess a good “team” mindset in order to work well with other preparators and a willingness to shadow and learn from team of experienced preparators about museum protocol and processes as needed.
Must also be familiar with museum standards for conservation, preservation, and object handling.
Must be able to undertake long- and short-term travel as necessary. Some evenings and weekend hours may be required when installing larger exhibitions.
Knowledge of art handling techniques and safety procedures and the ability to tend to progressive responsibilities working with and handling high-value museum objects in a variety of media is required.
Basic woodworking skills and knowledge of hand and power tools required. Good practical computer use background (email, Microsoft Word and PowerPoint, Zoom) required and knowledge of SketchUp is a plus.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Bachelor’s degree in studio art or architecture or related work experience in exhibition installation and preparation is preferred; High school Diploma or equivalent necessary.
Related work experience in carpentry, fabrication of crates and frames, matting and framing, art handling and installation preferred.
Must have valid Pennsylvania driver’s license.
MACHINES AND EQUIPMENT: This job requires operation of hand and power tools of varying size and complexity (table saw, drill press, various electronic and AV equipment, ladders, scissor lift, gantry, and material handling equipment such as pallet jack, dollies, forklift, etc.; small moving truck.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Must have good dexterity, physical strength, hand eye coordination, the ability to climb and work on ladders for extended periods of time, reach, stretch, stoop, sometimes lie on floor, work with hands above shoulder level, lift heavy objects (50 pounds or more), and stand or walk for long periods of time.
EMPLOYMENT TRAINING: Four months
Requirements
Work with Director and Associate Director to facilitate the installation and de-installation of exhibitions and packing and shipping of loans. Meet regularly with Associate Director and Registrars to compile an ongoing work schedule.
Install and deinstall permanent collection and temporary exhibitions as needed. Under the direction of the Associate Director of Exhibitions, in conjunction with the Director of Exhibitions & collections and Chief Curator, moves, hangs, and positions exhibition casework and works of art of varying sizes, media, and fragility in such fashion as to ensure maximum security and safety. Assists with fabricating or finishing items needed for installation, including plinths, pedestals, cleats, hanging brackets, risers, cable hangers, temporary walls or dividers, frames, and crates. Promptly informs supervisor and registrar regarding objects with condition concerns or of damaged objects, and follows collections management documentation procedures. Install and adjust fixtures to light works of art using ladder or scissor lift; replace fixtures as needed.
Takes care to stow objects efficiently. Supports, stabilizes, and covers artworks on carts, tables, shelves, and pallets. Ensures location changes are recorded and provided to registrar. Prepares works of art to be examined by Conservators.
Print, mount, and install computer-generated labels. Mounts, attaches hanging hardware, and installs exhibition signage and labels inside museum.
Mat and un-mat, and frame and un-frame works of art on paper. Stretch and frame paintings; attach backing boards. Construct or repair frames as necessary. If candidate has little to no experience with matting and framing, on-the-job training is available.
Construct standard boxes, cartons, and crates for shipping as directed by Associate Director of Exhibitions. Wraps and pads works of art with paper, plastic, foam, or other materials as directed to protect against vibration, moisture, or impact; shapes and contours internal packing to ensure proper support during movement. Places art works in boxes, containers, or crates manually or using hoist. Responsible for securing containers with screws, bolts, tape, nails, or metal bands, and moving to receiving dock.
Load and unload art and archives shipment trucks. Potentially assist in delivery and pickup of off-site materials at museum storage facility.
Track locations of art collection objects and communicate this information to Registrar and Associate Director of Exhibitions.
Responsible for operation of workshop; maintain equipment and tools in a safe and sound operating condition; make minor repairs as necessary. With Associate Director of Exhibitions, order and stock installation and packing supplies to allow for the timely and efficient completion of tasks. Responsible for maintaining safe, clean, and orderly work and supply storage areas on a daily basis.
Provide Associate Director of Exhibitions with information relating to upcoming purchases and expenditures.