Preparator
Location: Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Advertised Salary: $17.51 per hour. Comprehensive benefit package (health care, vacation, etc.).
This is a full-time, temporary 12-month position with an anticipated start date of August 2026. The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire without employer assistance or sponsorship.
About the Role
The Preparator will work closely with the Exhibitions Director to produce high-quality exhibitions. The role involves assisting in planning, preparation, security, installation, and de-installation of gallery exhibitions and other display materials. Key responsibilities include training and supervising temporary work crews and student gallery workers on gallery installations, preparing and maintaining exhibitions, and managing storage and preparatory spaces.
Responsibilities
- Coordinate, oversee, and execute logistics of all exhibition installations and deinstallations, working alongside the Exhibitions Director.
- Track supplies and resource needs and determine adjustments in stock quantities as required.
- Monitor the condition and appearance of exhibitions, identify problem areas, recommend solutions, and oversee necessary repairs and maintenance, or coordinate work with other departments as required.
- Oversee the maintenance and repair of gallery spaces, tools, equipment, and supplies.
- Ensure adherence to safe workplace practices, including using the lift only after university certification and following procedures for handling art and for all preparation work and workshop spaces.
- Coordinate and execute the packing, labeling, shipping, and local transport of art and exhibitions.
- Condition all incoming and outgoing artworks to ensure that works are documented and that no damage occurs during their loan period.
- Fabricate, plan, and purchase materials for exhibition assets/display purposes.
- Monitor environmental needs in gallery space.
- Knowledge of various Technology and AV setups.
- Operate a university or personal vehicle safely while carrying out job responsibilities. A driving record check will be authorized, and driving authorization requirements must be met.
- Carry out responsibilities in accordance with university policies and applicable laws.
- Cultivate an environment of belonging that values, respects, supports, and celebrates individual similarities and differences.
- Support, promote, and develop university student enrollment and retention initiatives.
- Any other duties assigned within the position classification area.
Marginal Duties
- Assist in the development of exhibition and special project budgets.
- Coordinate and manufacture exhibition-related signage and labels.
- Train, monitor, manage, schedule, and work alongside on-call preparators and student preparators.
Requirements
- BA or BFA in Art, Art History, Museum Studies, BA in Design, or related field.
- At least 2 years of progressively responsible experience in art handling, gallery/museum work, or fabrication/installation, with an emphasis on preparation/installation strongly preferred.
- Scissor Lift Certification, or ability to obtain certification within 3 months of hire.
Skills and Abilities
- Strong skills in art preparation, carpentry, building, and painting.
- Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
- Meticulous attention to detail.
- Project management skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with a team.
- Demonstrated successful experience working directly with people from diverse backgrounds, including cultural, educational, socioeconomic, and life experiences.
Physical Demands
- Bending
- Carrying
- Moving
- Reaching
- Sitting
- Twisting
- Balancing
- Climbing
- Driving
- Heights
- Lifting
- Pulling/Pushing
- Repetitive movement
- Standing
Required Documents
- Cover Letter
- Resume
- Unofficial Transcript (must include institution name, applicant's name, date degree was attained, and degree awarded)
Optional Documents
- Visual portfolio of exhibition or fabrication projects
- Any certifications or licenses