Exhibitions Preparator

MCA•Chicago, IL

14h•Onsite

About The Position

We have an opening for an Exhibitions Preparator who will solve installation, deinstallation, and maintenance problems in the galleries, assists with design and fabrication, and addresses matters related to managing the production of in-house exhibitions. The Exhibitions Preparator will safely handle artwork for installation/deinstallation, storage, and general collection care while assisting with logistical issues as they arise in the movement, storage, and transportation of artwork, working closely with all Collections and Exhibitions staff to complete projects in a timely manner in accordance with best practices. To be successful in this role, you will:

Requirements

3-5 years museum or other professional art handling experience.
Prior experience leading a team over the course of a project.
Knowledge of and experience with best practices in art handling, packing, transport, and installation of various types of artwork.
Knowledge of power tools and their proper application as related to installation and fabrication.
Familiarity with construction methods such as drywall, painting, carpentry, and framing.
Mathematic and measuring skills.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
Ability to work independently, with a partner, or with a larger team, to complete tasks in a timely manner.
Ability to operate and become certified on aerial and forklifts as aides to installation and art movement.
Familiarity with moving large/heavy objects and crates.
Demonstrated ability to work with care and accuracy while performing job duties.
Ability to safely lift 60 lbs.
General mobility throughout all museum properties.

Responsibilities

Install artworks, including but not limited to, painting, sculpture, and audio/visual throughout the museum galleries and interactive spaces, including selecting proper hardware, exercising technical judgment, and troubleshooting installations as needed under the supervision of the Lead Preparator.
Assist Senior Registrar for Collections and Collections Preparators with capturing the necessary information regarding permanent collection time-based media works on iteration reports.
Assist with design and pre-build of furniture, fixtures, mounts, and artist’s fabrications for exhibitions as assigned.
Lead team of exhibition technicians during exhibition turnovers as assigned by Lead Preparator.
Attend all Exhibition Team Meetings for assigned exhibitions.
Manage budgets including creating estimates, tracking costs, processing invoices, and determining accruals for assigned exhibitions.
Assist with locating, hiring, scheduling, and overseeing contractors, fabricators, and other outside contractual production needs for assigned exhibitions.
Oversee all components of installation/deinstallation of assigned exhibitions.
Assist with the maintenance and proper storage of the collection and any loans to the MCA on and off site.
Perform routine gallery and art storage maintenance.
Properly load and secure artworks within a truck to keep them safe and stable during transport. Assist with receipt and release of art shipments.
Use and maintain tools and equipment in accordance with safely regulations, keep supply inventory, and advise on ordering additional supplies.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Lead Preparator, Senior Preparator, and/or the Director of Collections and Exhibitions Management.

Benefits

Individual and MCA-provided retirement savings plans.
Paid time off.
Pre-tax, reduced rate parking and Ventra/Metra benefits.
Free admission to MCA exhibitions for yourself and guests.
Free admission to many special and member events.
Reduced price tickets to MCA Stage performances.
Discounts on dining in Marisol and in our award-winning MCA Store.
Access to our onsite library.
Opportunities to attend curator-led staff tours.
Free or discounted admission to many other cultural institutions across the United States.
health, dental, and vision insurance plus free life, AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance.