Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA) seeking a Preparator

Preparator

The Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA) is seeking a Preparator to support the Curatorial Department in the movement and installation/de-installation of art exhibits. This position reports to the VP of Curatorial Affairs.

Essential Functions:

• Coordinates the installation/de-installation of exhibits at the museum and off-site galleries, and assesses installation needs in conjunction with appropriate department staff and/or guest curators
• Coordinates gallery preparation, including basic painting, spackling and sanding
• Installs audio-visual equipment, hang artwork using museum industry standards
• Sets lighting, assist with the installation of labels, text panels and title walls, manage all aspects of set-up and clean-up of an exhibition
• Maintains all technical elements in the galleries
• Assists with the movement and storage of art in galleries and storage areas, using proper art handling and packing procedures
• Assists in the transport, shipping and receiving of art objects under the supervision of the VP of Curatorial Affairs
• Opens crates and soft-pack art deliveries and prepare art for the temporary exhibits and assist in the documentation and photo-documentation of new acquisitions
• Assists in processing condition reports and assess conservation needs for the art
• Arranges and assists with the professional photography of art for image database, catalogs and publications
• Assists in the digitization of the collection and temporary exhibits; assist in editing images with the use of downloading and photo-manipulation programs
• Handles framing needs of the art: preparation, packing, delivery and receipt
• Assists in the inventory of art objects, receipt of documents and archival documentation
• Manages and conducts regular inventory of gallery and shipping supplies, tools and equipment (pedestals, plexi cases, bulbs, canisters, hanging supplies, boxes, etc.) and process supply orders
• Assists in data entry for art location tracking and additions/changes to the permanent collection & holdings on the collection database programs -- Excel and Embark Collection Management software programs
• Participates in special projects such as the Art Auction, Gala Events and art fairs
• Trains museum personnel on the safe handling, packing, movement and installation of artworks
• Supervises and train installers, interns and volunteers
• Other duties as assigned

Knowledge /Skills/Experience Required
· 2-3 years experience in art handling and installation or related experience required
· Bachelor’s Degree in Art, art history, museum studies, or related field
· Knowledge of Microsoft Office (particularly Word, Power Point and Excel)

• Ability to use a digital camera; having basic knowledge of digital download photo-manipulation programs
• Carpentry and electrical skills are beneficial
• Ability to drive a 12-foot box truck and delivery van; A clean driving record is a must
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team-oriented environment
• Must be organized, patient and detail-oriented, able to multi-task and be resourceful
• Bilingual in Spanish/English beneficial

Physical Requirements

• Heavy work. Climbing, kneeling, reaching, pushing, pulling and lifting
• Able to lift up to 50 lbs.

If you are interested in this position please send resume, cover letter and salary history to: jobs@molaa.org.