Preparator

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum • Boston, MA

378d • $70,000 - $75,000

About The Position

The Preparator at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum plays a crucial role in supporting the museum's dynamic exhibition program and diverse permanent collection. This position involves art handling, installation, and deinstallation of exhibitions, as well as conservation work and collaboration with various teams to ensure the highest standards of care for the collection. The Preparator will work closely with the Senior Preparator and Head Registrar to execute six exhibitions per year and maintain the museum's inventory of supplies and equipment.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Art History, Museum Studies, Studio Art, or a related field; or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum of 8 years' experience in art handling, packing, and exhibition development in a museum environment.
• Broad knowledge of museum best practices and standards for collection handling and care.
• Minimum of 4 years' experience in finish carpentry and proficiency with standard workshop tools.
• Experience with mount-making, matting, framing, and re-housing of collection objects.
• Proficiency with art moving and lift equipment, including staging, dollies, and forklifts.
• Excellent communication skills (written, verbal, and auditory).
• Working knowledge of digital tools and computing in various platforms.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with Collection Management Databases (particularly TMS-C).
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, Google Suite, and various Apple tools.

Responsibilities

• Support the execution of six exhibitions per year, including art handling activities related to installation and deinstallation.
• Assist with art shipments, packing and unpacking materials, and object handling.
• Fabricate exhibition furniture and mounts as needed.
• Maintain the highest standard of care for collection and loaned works regarding object handling, documentation, storage, and display.
• Engage in acquiring knowledge of updated standards and methodologies for collection care and share these at ISGM.
• Place supply and materials orders as required and maintain the museum inventory of necessary supplies and equipment.
• Conduct regular inspections of exhibition installations and perform maintenance and cleaning of exhibition works and galleries.
• Work independently on assigned projects with direction from the Senior Preparator and other team members.
• Communicate effectively with couriers from lending institutions for the handling and display of loaned works for exhibition.
• Travel as ISGM courier or on site visits to oversee works for loan and exhibition as required.

Benefits

• Competitive salary of $70,000 - $75,000 depending on experience.
• Full-time position with benefits.
• Opportunity to work in a dynamic and creative environment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Museums, Historical Sites, and Similar Institutions
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree