Technician, Art Handling

Responsibilities

• Safely handle works of art during installations, deinstallations (including temporary exhibitions), gallery rotations, Board of Trustees and committee meeting displays, and other assigned projects while coordinating with museum partners as needed.
• Pack and unpack artworks using appropriate materials and equipment, documenting packing notes in the museum database for future reference.
• Collaborate with curators, curatorial art handlers, registrars, and conservators to ensure artworks are cared for, installed, and presented according to established specifications.
• Auxiliary in incoming and outgoing shipments by assisting with packing, unpacking, and the movement of artworks to storage areas, vaults, or exhibition spaces.
• Assist with transporting objects and crates between the museum campus and off-site storage facilities.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of two years of experience handling works of art or equivalent experience working with objects required.
• Valid driver's license and ability to operate work vehicles.
• Knowledge of current best practices for safe art handling.
• Exceptional manual dexterity.
• Experience using a wide variety of hand and power tools safely and effectively.
• Understanding of rigging methods, AV, or mount installation.
• Experience preparing display case work, support structures, and housing for artworks.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Google Workspace, and the ability to learn museum-specific collection database systems.

Physical Requirements

• Regularly lift, carry, and move artworks and related materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Safely operate material handling equipment, including forklifts and stackers, following training and guidance.
• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Extended periods walking, standing, and working at a computer.
• Comfort working at elevated heights using ladders, scaffolding, or aerial lifts.
• Ability to perform work requiring close visual attention, adjust focus as needed, and maintain visual concentration for extended periods.