Exhibits Specialist (IS-1010-07)

Smithsonian Institution•Washington, DC

9d•Onsite

About The Position

This position is located in Exhibits Production, Office of Building Renovations and Exhibition Services, National Museum of American History (NMAH), Smithsonian Institution (SI). NMAH is a national museum for the study and exhibition of American history and culture. The NMAH, Exhibits Production is seeking multiple candidates to fill multiple vacancies in various departments (fabrication, graphics and exhibits service). The purpose of these Exhibits Specialist positions is to contribute to the planning and execution of the construction of specialized and complex exhibition components and structures, and directly supporting the finished look of all museum exhibitions and public spaces. The work requires lifting, bending, stooping, and stretching for extended periods of time. The position requires the incumbent to have the manual dexterity to efficiently operate all hand and power tools and all graphic production equipment. Work requires regular work in an industrial shop environment, with associated risks and conditions. It involves moderate risks or discomforts such as working with power tools, skin and eye irritants or hazardous substances. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. unassisted. On an infrequent and non-regular and recurring basis, the incumbent may be required to climb ladders and scaffolds and balance to work in a variety of positions and may be required to work within confined spaces and at heights.

Requirements

Experience in at least one or more of the following: 1) Assisting in fabrication and installation of exhibit components made from wood and composites for a museum or similar cultural institution; 2) Participating in the production and installation of exhibit graphics; and 3) Assisting with regular maintenance activities for existing exhibit components.
Skill in woodworking and metalworking techniques, finishing techniques, methods, and materials to fabricate, finish, install and maintain high-quality components and structures that are used throughout the museum for routine or developmental projects.
Basic knowledge of modeling and CAD or related software to interpret and analyze design specifications and details, and develop and recommend fabrication methods or structural modifications that are appropriate for projects and the display of artifacts or art works, and graphics.
Ability to safely use and maintain various types of equipment.
Knowledge of the basic principles of fine arts, design, or related fields to understand design and subject matter concepts that the exhibition projects intend to convey.
Skill in finishing techniques such as staining, painting, and spray application including HVLP).
Ability to determine the most appropriate materials, finishes and techniques to accomplish project objectives.

Responsibilities

Performs routine fabrication methods and techniques to support the development and production of exhibition projects that include elements such as structurally and architecturally accurate casework, components, artifact mounts, graphics, and lighting.
Interprets and analyzes design specifications and details and recommends fabrication methods that are appropriate for projects, and the display of artifacts or art works.
Creates digital images or text for graphic panels, posters, signs, labels, decals, and other visual media ranging in size from several inches to room-size murals.
Uses appropriate raw materials, bonding, and attachment techniques, cutting and machining devices, and finishing systems that will be most appropriate for each task.
Assists with the preparation and refurbishment of the exhibition areas; and responds to refurbishment and maintenance requests received through the exhibit maintenance database reporting system.