Preparator

New Museum of Contemporary Art • New York, NY

4d

About The Position

The New Museum of Contemporary Art seeks a skilled professional for the position of Preparator. The successful candidate will report to the Chief Preparator and Director of Exhibitions Management and will partner with two fellow full-time Preparators and the entire Exhibitions Department to complete the needs of an exhibition from the planning stages through installation and dispersal. The Preparator will work closely with the Chief Preparator, Registrars, Installation Crew, Curatorial Department, and Operations Staff. The position frequently requires work on weekends and evenings aligned with the Museum’s exhibitions calendar. The position is eligible for the Museum’s employee benefits programs.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Art, Design, or a related field and at least 2 years’ experience working with museum-quality art installations is required.
• Preparators must be able to move or assist in moving heavy objects (must be able to lift up to 50 pounds) and operate a scissor lift, pump lift card, and pallet jack.
• Qualified candidates must demonstrate proficiency in fabrication/production/workshop skills and safety, including hand and power tools.

Nice To Haves

• The ideal candidate will have knowledge and interest in contemporary art, prior experience with SketchUp, and the ability to work easily with multiple teams across the Museum.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the planning, fabrication, installation, and maintenance of artist projects and exhibitions
• Responsible for the production of exhibition furniture, mounts, crates, and other related elements of an artist project or installation
• Works in galleries as part of the installation crew for exhibitions, which may include construction, painting, object handling & installation, object lighting, and installation of digital or other media (film, computer, audio/video)
• Maintains a safe, clean, and organized production workshop and art storage facilities
• Performs routine maintenance of all exhibitions and artist projects including cleaning, light replacement, paint touch-up, etc.
• Assists with producing and installing didactic materials, including wall labels, graphic panels, and cut vinyl signage
• Performs routine art handling and occasional transport of art works for Museum exhibitions, artist projects, and other events and activities
• Guides and assists other Preparators and Exhibitions Crew as needed
• Other duties as directed within the scope of the Preparator’s job responsibilities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees