Behnke Gallery Preparator & Coordinator

9-month position, 20 hours per week, onsite at Seattle University.

About the role

The Behnke Family Gallery Preparator Coordinator oversees the installation and deinstallation of exhibitions, ensuring the safety and security of artworks in the Behnke Family Gallery. This role also supports the Behnke Gallery Curator with exhibition needs, gallery operations, and special events. The schedule requires flexibility to meet exhibition timelines, event deadlines, and occasional coverage of public gallery hours during staff absences.

Responsibilities

• Preparator (60%):
  • Handle, move, and store artworks following best practices for safety and preservation.
  • Install and deinstall exhibitions, including artwork layout, construction of exhibition furniture, and lighting.
  • Maintain galleries and exhibition spaces, including cleaning and minor repairs.
  • Fabricate frames, crates, plinths, mounts, temporary walls, and other items as needed; provide drafts, models, and cost estimates.
  • Collaborate with exhibiting artists, curators, gallery staff, and others to develop install/deinstall schedules and ensure successful exhibition presentation.
  • Transport artwork, repair and paint gallery walls, and maintain a safe working environment.
• Coordinator (40%):
  • Prepare, edit, format, and install exhibition-related text documents, including labels, vinyl, statements, and exhibition binder materials.
  • Work with the website team and exhibition photographer to archive and produce content.
  • Assist the Curator in preparing, editing, and disseminating exhibition announcements and press releases.
  • Interact with visitors to provide information about exhibitions and assist with general inquiries.
  • Protect artworks from theft, vandalism, and accidental damage.
  • Stay informed about gallery exhibitions, public programs, and events; attend mandatory meetings/trainings.
  • Support special events, performances, opening receptions, and public programs as assigned.
  • Respond to emergencies calmly and assist others as needed.
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of work areas.

Requirements

• College graduate or equivalent.
• One or more years of experience in object handling and exhibition installation, preferably in museums, galleries, studio arts, cabinetmaking, metal work, or art installation.
• Problem-solving abilities and strong attention to detail.

Skills

• Practical experience in carpentry, woodworking, construction, mount making, and display methods.
• Proficiency in rigging and operating equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, art dollies, and lifting straps.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator) and 3D modeling software/tools like SketchUp.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive, professional working relationships with staff, faculty, curators, students, and the public.
• Strong emotional intelligence, diplomacy, creative problem-solving, and conflict resolution skills.
• Understanding of protocol and sensitivity to cultural diversity needs.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Commitment to teamwork, courtesy, and respect for colleagues.

Core Competencies

• Effective Team Collaboration: Works harmoniously with others toward common goals, leveraging individual strengths.
• Emotionally Intelligent Communication: Engages in skillful exchange of information, thoughts, and feelings.
• Ethics and Integrity: Demonstrates honesty, professionalism, and alignment with Jesuit mission.
• Flexibility and Innovation: Embraces change, approaches problems with curiosity and adaptability.
• Mindful Inclusion: Fosters an inclusive workplace that celebrates differences and cultural humility.
• Outcomes-Driven Orientation: Sets clear objectives, pursues excellence, and delivers measurable outcomes while upholding Jesuit Catholic values.

Schedule

• 9-month work year, 20 hours per week.
• Flexible hours based on exhibition schedule deadlines and Curator’s schedule.
• Public gallery hours: Wednesday–Saturday, 12–5 PM.

Pay

$28.00–$32.00 per hour. Salary offered will be determined based on qualifications, departmental budget, internal equity, and market information.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health plans (three medical options, dental, and vision insurance).
• Life, short-term, and long-term disability coverage.
• Retirement benefits with up to a 10% employer contribution (5% nonelective + up to 5% match of voluntary contributions).
• 100% paid tuition benefits for employees and dependents.
• Subsidized transportation benefit and wellness program with free access to an onsite fitness facility.
• Generous holiday schedule, including a paid Holiday break closure in December.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and community service leave.