Assistant Preparator (Temporary)

Job Description

The Assistant Preparator role at the Portland Art Museum is a member of the exhibition team, responsible for the technical preparation and installation of the Museum’s special exhibitions. This role translates complex exhibition designs into physical reality through skilled craftsmanship and precise art handling. The Assistant Preparator ensures the safe handling and meticulous preservation of all artworks, whether part of the Museum’s permanent collection or on loan, while maintaining a high standard of professional presentation.

• Working under the direction of the Preparator Supervisor and Chief Preparator, this is a collaborative, hands-on role.
  • Details:
    • Detail-oriented and capable of working in a fast-paced environment to meet rigorous exhibition schedules safely and with care.
    • Assists Chief & Preparator Supervisor in all aspects of installation including, carpentry and related shop work, painting, lighting, mount making, rigging, art handling, graphic installation and packing.
    • Assists the Chief Preparator, Supervisor, Registrars, and Couriers in shipping and receiving of artworks, crate moving, unpacking and packing, crate building and retrofitting, and local and regional pickup and delivery of artwork.
    • Assists with moving, modifying and clearing/painting exhibit furniture to prepare for art installation.
    • Aids in maintaining workshop including, cleaning and organization of shop space.
    • Aids in maintaining general appearance of galleries including cleaning of exhibit furniture/casework, dusting, and changing of lights.
    • Aids in maintaining general appearance of galleries including cleaning of exhibit furniture/casework, dusting, and changing of lights.
    • Assists with maintenance and troubleshooting of new media electronic artworks and displays.
  • Other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• 1-3 years experience in art handling or similar field.
• Knowledge of safe art handling practices and principles of professional museum collection care and respect for works of art.
• Responsibly demonstrates workplace safety.
• Effectively communicates verbally and maintains an effective working relationship with supervisor, staff, and other co-workers.
• Willingness to work under the direction of visiting Couriers from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds and different countries.
• Successfully fabricate from working diagrams and oral instructions to finished products in a variety of materials.
• Knowledge of shop safety and use of hand/power tools and willingness to learn and adhere to OSHA safety guidelines.
• Willingness to learn and follow ADA guidelines.
• Demonstrated problem solving skills.
• Demonstrated flexibility and effective problem-solving skills in overcoming challenges and obstacles.

Job Conditions & Physical Activities

• Schedule/Hours: 35 hours per week, schedule is typically Monday through Friday, though flexibility is required for occasional weekend work based on needs.
• Onsite/Not Remote
• Occasional nights and weekends
• Occasional outdoor work
• Extensive close work
• Frequently standing, walking, bending body to wait, use of fingers, talking, reaching, hearing, feeling, handling, climbing, kneeling, crawling, and grasping
• Frequent repetitive motion of feet
• Frequent repetitive motion of hands and wrists

Benefits

• This role is non-exempt and temporary, with an anticipated end date of August 4, 2026.
• The budgeted compensation falls within pay grade G ($24.78 minimum - $28.64 midpoint - $32.51 maximum), based on experience.
• Accrued sick time
• Employee discounts

Application Process

• To be considered please submit your resume, cover letter, and four references.
• Incomplete applications will not be considered.
• Application materials will be screened and interview candidates will be selected and notified by email.
• All applicants will be notified once the position is filled.
• Application deadline: Immediate review, please apply as soon as possible. The closing date is subject to change at any time.