About the position
The Preparator at The San Diego Museum of Art plays a crucial role in the Exhibitions & Collections department, reporting directly to the Senior Preparator. This full-time, non-exempt position involves working closely with a dedicated installation team to support all aspects of exhibition preparation and installation. The Preparator is responsible for a variety of tasks that ensure the successful presentation of artworks in the museum's galleries. This includes the fabrication of pedestals, gallery preparation and maintenance, exhibition lighting, and the installation of art pieces. The role requires a blend of technical skills, artistic sensibility, and organizational abilities to manage the logistics of art handling and exhibition setup. Key responsibilities include the careful handling, packing, unpacking, transporting, storing, and installing of artwork of all types. The Preparator assists in constructing exhibition pedestals and other display furnishings as directed by the Senior Preparator, and is involved in cutting mats and framing photographs and works on paper. Under the guidance of the Senior Preparator, the individual contributes to all aspects of gallery preparation, installation, and de-installation, ensuring that exhibitions are executed to the highest standards. In addition to physical tasks, the Preparator is responsible for maintaining accurate records and documentation related to the artworks and exhibitions. This includes using the EmbARK collection management system for research and information retrieval, as well as photo-documenting exhibitions and installations. The role also involves overseeing a digital archive of exhibition and installation photography, ensuring that all visual records are well-organized and accessible. The Preparator must respond promptly to any threats to artworks due to unforeseen conditions, moving objects to safety in accordance with the museum's Disaster Preparedness Plan. Regular maintenance tasks, such as touch-up and repair work in galleries, are also part of the job. The Preparator is responsible for purchasing and maintaining materials, hardware, and tools, and must keep the carpenter's shop and installation areas clean and orderly to promote efficiency and safety. Compliance with Cal-OSHA regulations is essential, and the Preparator may be required to attend professional conferences and workshops to stay updated on best practices in exhibition preparation. This position demands a high level of accuracy, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team to meet strict deadlines.
Responsibilities
- Handle, pack and unpack, transport, store, and install artwork of all types.
- Assist in the construction of exhibition pedestals and other display furnishings as directed by the Senior Preparator.
- Assist in cutting mats and framing photographs and works on paper.
- Contribute to all aspects of gallery preparation, installation, and de-installation under the direction of the Senior Preparator.
- Assist with accessing objects for research, object record keeping and information retrieval using EmbARK collection management system as directed by museum registrars.
- Photo-document exhibitions, installations, custom mounts, and other exhibition related material as requested.
- Oversee digital archive of exhibition and installation photography.
- Wrap decks and boxes for display cases with fabric.
- Respond when artworks are threatened due to unanticipated conditions and move objects to safety in accordance with the Disaster Preparedness Plan.
- Perform regular touch-up and repair work in galleries.
- Assist in unloading and loading exhibition shipments.
- Purchase and maintain materials, hardware, and tools.
- Keep carpenter's shop and installation areas clean and orderly for efficiency and the safety of personnel and art objects.
- Facilitate compliance with Cal-OSHA regulations, documentation, and training in the use of supplies, materials, and equipment used in exhibition fabrication.
- Periodically attend related professional conferences and/or workshops.
- Perform other departmental tasks as required.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree with emphasis in the arts, design, or related field.
- Minimum two years museum exhibition experience preferred.
- Knowledge of archival standards.
- Proper procedures for operating portable and stationary power tools.
- Ability to read shop drawings preferred.
- Knowledge of OSHA regulations/guidelines.
- Experience and expertise with matting and framing artwork required.
- Knowledge of construction, carpentry and electrical skills required.
- Knowledge of or willingness to learn how to operate a fork lift and scissor lift.
- Strong organization and time management skills.
- Basic computer skills and willingness to learn Museum database system.
- A valid California Driver's license and insurance.
Nice-to-haves
- Experience in a fast-paced environment with strict deadlines.
- Ability to work efficiently both independently and as part of a team.
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
