Museum Technician I

Detroit Institute of Arts•Detroit, MI

10d•$45,386 - $52,196

About The Position

The Museum Technician I works under the guidance of the Collections Manager to ensure that artworks in the DIA collection and objects belonging to other institutions under DIA care are properly handled, installed and displayed, tracked and monitored, packed, and stored. The position supports collection storage, gallery and exhibition work, documentation, image processing, and special projects. The role may involve domestic travel, outdoor work, and irregular hours.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in fine arts, studio art, art history, museum studies, or a related field; additional years of experience may substitute for the degree requirement.
Three years of experience in art handling and working in a museum or gallery, including one year of art installation; additional years of experience may substitute for the degree requirement.
Demonstrated collaboration skills for working across departments and divisions and with diverse external stakeholders.
Working knowledge of art-making media and techniques, and familiarity with carpentry materials and methods.
Ability to operate power tools and heavy machinery.
Ability to understand blueprints, technical drawings, and exhibition design plans.
Understanding and sensitivity required to handle, store, and display museum-quality artworks in compliance with American Alliance of Museums collection standards, current legal and ethical practices, and Association of Art Museum Directors policy on deaccessioning artworks.
Ability to pass scissor lift and forklift certification training and Transportation Security Administration certification testing.
Flexibility and adaptability when priorities change based on operational needs.
Research and analysis skills to identify critical information and complete projects and goals.
General understanding of digital photography.
Clear, effective, and professional communication skills, orally and in writing.
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to maintain professional, productive, and courteous interactions that promote teamwork, including responding appropriately to constructive feedback.
Attention to detail and ability to produce accurate results.
Ability to identify challenges and opportunities, engage others in resolving them, and recommend appropriate courses of action.
Understanding of ethical business conduct and professional practices, including maintaining and protecting confidential and sensitive information.
Ability to prioritize and complete multiple tasks to meet deadlines and goals.
Ability to work occasional weekend and evening hours for special events.
Proficiency in the latest version of Office 365.
Proficiency with remote-work technology, including scheduling, connecting to, and using digital collaboration platforms such as Microsoft Teams.

Nice To Haves

Experience with collections database software, preferably The Museum System (TMS).
Experience with photo-editing software, preferably Adobe Creative Suite.

Responsibilities

Handle, move, and prepare art for storage, gallery display, exhibitions, and loans.
Install and deinstall art objects in galleries and exhibitions.
Participate in the regular cleaning, repair, and maintenance of exhibit galleries, art and non-art displays, and display furniture.
Create, pack, and unpack art for storage, transportation, and galleries or exhibitions.
Work with the Director of Collections Management and department team members to plan and execute daily tasks and special projects.
Assist department team leaders in organizing and executing workflow.
Participate in the maintenance, organization, and monitoring of collection storage areas.
Facilitate collection documentation and image processing.
Update the collection's digital database.
Perform daily checks of art storage spaces, climate conditions, and pest monitoring, and respond to detected issues as required.
Work with contractors and representatives from other museums to complete gallery and exhibition projects.
Assist with museum projects and special events.
Apply DIA values in interactions to support a culture of belonging among internal and external stakeholders.
Perform other duties as assigned.