Preparator

Dallas Museum of Art • Dallas, TX

101d • $30 - $30

About The Position

The DMA Preparator is primarily responsible for art handling duties in support of exhibitions, the permanent collection, and long-term loans. As an integral part of the Collections, Exhibitions, and Interpretation Department, DMA Preparators work independently or as part of a larger team, implementing best museum practices for the installation, preparation, and packing of all art objects, based on institutional need.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Art History, Fine Arts, or three or more years of experience in professional art handling.
• Knowledge of best museum practices, with a focus on art object handling, installation, and packing methodologies (knowledge of art object materials a plus).
• Ability to use a wide variety of equipment, including power and manual tools, material lifts and conveyances (operational knowledge of forklifts and rigging equipment a plus).
• Ability to safely work on a ladder, high lift, or scaffolding.
• Ability to visually inspect artwork, walk or stand for extended periods of time, and the ability to safely lift and carry 50 lbs. or more.
• Ability to cooperate and follow instructions while working independently or with a team.
• Excellent computer skills, including Microsoft Office applications and exceptional comfort with digital tools and software.
• Excellent oral and written command of the English language, including knowledge of art history, art production, and art handling terminology.
• Interact with the staff, public, vendors, artists and scholars, in alignment with the values of the Dallas Museum of Art.
• Operational knowledge of computerized collections management systems, such as TMS (The Museum System), a plus.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Head Preparator, Permanent Collection Registrar, and assigned Lead Preparators on daily tasks and projects.
• Handle all art objects (e.g., installation, packing, transport, etc.) by following DMA policies, procedures, and provided instructions, with consideration for the safety of all objects, employees, and museum patrons.
• Effectively communicate status updates, including project timelines, art object movements, and project / object concerns, to the appropriate Collections staff members.
• Maintain all art object storage and preparation areas, including the maintenance and restock of all tools, tool carts, materials, and supplies.
• Receive/release art objects via the loading dock from/to second- and third-party shippers, in coordination with the assigned project Registrar.
• Perform occasional off-site packing, pickups, and deliveries using the museum van and materials.
• Occasionally act as a courier for art object movements, both domestically and internationally, as assigned, and based on institutional need.
• Remain current on all applied art handling techniques and methodologies.
• Follow all institutional requirements, including the use of technology systems, training, and procedures.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of all DMA projects, shipments, and art movement schedules.

Benefits

• Full Museum Benefits

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree