Preparator

the McNay Art Museum•San Antonio, TX

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Reporting to the Curator of Exhibitions, this role safely handles, moves, houses, installs, stores, and packs/unpacks the permanent collection and all objects on loan. The Preparator assists with the preparation, installation, maintenance, and de-installation of temporary exhibitions and permanent collection installations. This role fabricates exhibition components including temporary walls, bases, mounts, and gallery furniture, and assists with gallery lighting and graphics to ensure the safe and effective presentation of artworks in accordance with museum conservation and security standards.

Requirements

Thorough knowledge of art handling and preparation techniques required.
Educational and experiential background should demonstrate the ability to safely handle works of art and familiarity with museum conservation, exhibition, and storage standards.
Familiarity with safety procedures, proper lifting techniques, and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Knowledge of museum standards for art handling, packing, and display.
Must be able to operate a motor vehicle, maintain a valid operator’s license, have proof of insurance, and maintain a good driving record.
Must pass physical examination.

Nice To Haves

Strong carpentry and fabrication skills preferred, including experience with construction tools, mount making, and exhibition furniture fabrication.
Experience with gallery lighting systems and exhibition installation practices preferred.
Experience operating lifts, pallet jacks, dollies, and other installation equipment preferred.
Degree in art, museum studies, studio art, construction, or a related field preferred, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Minimum of two years of museum, gallery, exhibition, or related preparatory/construction experience preferred, including demonstrated experience in art handling, installation, fabrication, and museum-quality construction practices.

Responsibilities

Safely handles, moves, installs, packs/unpacks, and stores works of art in accordance with proper conservation and security standards.
Assists with the installation and de-installation of temporary exhibitions and permanent collection rotations, including layout, placement, and presentation of artworks.
Fabricates and maintains temporary walls, exhibition furniture, bases, vitrines, mounts, and other installation components for galleries and public spaces, including museum grounds.
Assists with installation and adjustment of gallery lighting in accordance with conservation standards and curatorial presentation goals.
Assists with the installation and upkeep of exhibition graphics and signage throughout the museum.
Maintains the appearance and safety of galleries, exhibition furniture, lighting, and storage areas, including regular cleaning and minor repairs.
Works with the Registrar for Collections and Registrar for Exhibitions to ensure the safe movement and storage of artworks and related materials.
Operates and maintains tools, equipment, lifts, dollies, and other preparatory equipment safely and effectively.
Assists with packing, crating, and preparation of artworks for transportation and storage.
Coordinates day-to-day installation priorities and workflow as assigned by the Lead Preparator and Curator of Exhibitions.
Provides guidance to contractors during installation and de-installation periods as assigned.
Performs other duties as required.