Preparator

University of Texas at Austin

72d • $48,000

About The Position

The Blanton Museum of Art at the University of Texas at Austin is known for its bold vision, from a dynamic reinstallation of the collection galleries in 2017, to the opening of Ellsworth Kelly’s monumental work of art, Austin, in 2018, and redesign of its grounds by Snøhetta in 2023, and the exhibitions and educational programs that define the museum’s role in the community. There is even more to come for the Blanton and the thousands of school and university students and visitors we serve. With a proven track record as a museum that is deeply relevant, and where education is embedded into everything we do, we have put The University of Texas at Austin, and the city of Austin, on the forefront of the visual arts. Benefits eligible Blanton Museum of Art staff enjoy the same competitive benefits, programs and services available to the University of Texas at Austin employees. Blanton staff also have access to complimentary admission to the museum, selected museum events, and a 20% discount at the Museum Store. The Blanton is home to a vast array of roles matching a wide range of interests and talents. No matter the staff position at the Blanton, all contribute to the preservation of culture and history for the entire community. We invite you to view and apply for this professional opportunity. Please note this is a three-year term position (subject to renewal based on funding and performance).

Requirements

• 3-4 years of experience as professional art handler, preferably in museum setting.
• Education equivalent to High school graduation or GED.
• Bachelors degree substitutes for up to two years of experience but must have the kind of experience listed above.
• Ability and skill to safely employ the use of a variety of tools, painting equipment, aerial platform lift, palette jack, forklift, ladders, scaffolding, and other heavy equipment and to handle oversized and/or heavy art objects and exhibition material.
• Additional qualification: valid Class C operator’s driver’s license with acceptable driving record.
• Excellent speaking/understanding of the English language including, art history terms and techniques.
• Ability to follow instructions and work cooperatively with a team.
• Microsoft Office Suite and experience in collections data-base systems preferred.

Nice To Haves

• Driving Required: This job requires a class 'C' operator's driver's license.
• The applicant selected must provide a current three year driving record from the current state of residence.
• If not currently a Texas resident, a Texas driver's license must be obtained within 30 days of becoming a Texas resident.

Responsibilities

• Daily assistance with the needs of the permanent collection as assigned, including art movements, matting and framing, storage housings, providing viewing access, and maintaining supplies and cleanliness in all art storage.
• Responsible for placing orders when new equipment is needed after completing research, discussion with appropriate curator and others in collections and exhibitions.
• Assist with receiving and releasing works of art, as well as, loading and unloading from vans/trucks and secure each shipment, in coordination with registrar assigned to each project.
• Responsible for maintenance of art preparation areas, as well as keeping all tools and supplies secure and in stock.
• Responsible for keeping all art storage rooms clean and well supplied.
• In coordination with Head of Installation, maintain lists of all display furniture and its storage locations.
• Prepare works of art for loan, installation or storage as scheduled by registrars or conservator.
• Handling works of art in various situations according to BMA guidelines and standard museum practices; install, de-install, pack and unpack works of art.
• Travel as needed as courier for loans, exhibitions, or to travel for special packing/unpacking, installation/deinstallation of works of art.
• Assist with carpentry, painting, art lighting and maintenance, and local pickups or deliveries using BMA art van, as needed.
• Responsible for documentation of location change after each art move.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of all BMA projects, personnel issues, shipments and art movement schedules.
• In coordination with registrars, responsible for housings for items in the permanent collection.
• Responsible for keeping appropriate amount supplies on hand for maintenance of collections items and storage areas, including supporting P&D staff.
• Primary contact for art movements for collection photographer, registrars, and curators.
• Must keep informed and current on conservation requirements for painting, sculpture, and mixed media housings and handling.

Benefits

• Competitive benefits, programs and services available to the University of Texas at Austin employees.
• Complimentary admission to the museum.
• Access to selected museum events.
• 20% discount at the Museum Store.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees