Mount Maker

About the Role

In support of our exciting exhibition schedule, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston seeks to expand our mount making expertise by enlisting experienced mount makers. This role involves designing and fabricating mounts that adhere to the highest professional standards, ensuring the physical stability, security, and proper display of objects in the permanent collection and on loan.

Responsibilities

• Design and produce mounts with protective and supportive properties using materials such as steel, aluminum, brass, copper, wood, plexiglass, and modeling epoxy.
• Handle artwork according to established conservation and curatorial specifications.
• Generate mount documentation, installation, and deinstallation instructions.
• Order tools, supplies, and equipment as needed, subject to supervisor approval.
• Ensure safe storage of artworks in the Mount Making shop.
• Pursue relevant educational opportunities and attend meetings, workshops, and symposia to stay current with mount making developments.
• Maintain workspace by cleaning, organizing, and managing material inventories.
• Assist in special projects related to mount making as assigned.
• Uphold professional standards, adhere to the museum’s code of ethics, and maintain confidentiality.
• Foster a diverse, inclusive, and equitable work environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in fine arts (focus on jewelry making preferred) or equivalent experience.
• Proven expertise in designing mounts for diverse collections, from small jewelry to monumental works.
• Strong background in metal fabrication (steel, aluminum, brass) and welding (Oxy/acetylene, TIG/MIG).
• Proficiency with power and hand tools (saws, routers, compressors, sanders, drills, grinders, lathes, sandblasting equipment).
• Knowledge of mechanical fasteners, anchoring systems, and conservation considerations for artwork handling.
• Strong mathematical skills for measurements and calculations.
• Experience with mold-making, casting, adhesives, acrylics, and epoxy resins (preferred).
• Project management and budget forecasting skills.
• Ability to work independently and oversee others in large object handling tasks.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, imaging, and data management systems.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Commitment to the museum’s mission of fostering an inclusive and equitable institution.
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds occasionally.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in fine arts or equivalent experience.
• Proven expertise in mount making for diverse collections.
• Strong metal fabrication and welding skills.
• Proficiency with tools and equipment.
• Knowledge of conservation considerations for artwork.

Skills

• Project management and prioritization.
• Problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Communication and collaboration.
• Attention to detail and precision.
• Adaptability and self-motivation.

Work Environment

Work will primarily be performed in a mount making shop and gallery spaces. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Exposure to fumes, airborne particles, chemicals, and radiation may occur (PPE provided).

About the MFAH

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, is a multifaceted institution with a 100+ year history, ranking among the top 10 art museums nationally. Our encyclopedic collection includes over 70,000 works of art. We offer a supportive, collegial, and inclusive work environment with competitive benefits for full-time staff.

Position Details

Title: Mount Maker (Senior Mount Maker DOE)
Classification: Full-time/Non-Exempt/Hourly
Work Location: Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

Physical Requirements

• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Manual dexterity for handling artwork and operating tools.
• Standing, walking, sitting, climbing, bending, and kneeling for extended periods.
• Close, color, and peripheral vision (corrected vision acceptable).

Equal Opportunities

The MFAH is committed to diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusivity. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, creed, color, age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.