Exhibition Designer and Preparator

We have filled this position as of 7/13/2022


The National Nordic Museum is seeking a full-time Exhibition Designer and Preparator who will be responsible for the design, fabrication, installation, deinstallation, and maintenance of the permanent and temporary exhibitions.

Essential Job Functions:

Manage all aspects of exhibition design, installation, and deinstallation for permanent and temporary exhibitions. Utilize exhibition design software to realize the aesthetic and interpretive vision of exhibition curators and artists, communicating effectively with all stakeholders. Create and distribute floor plans. Working closely with the Director of Collections, Exhibitions and Programs, and the Registrar and Collections Specialist, develop and design installation plans, work schedules, and manage installation logistics for exhibitions. Lay out, produce, and install exhibition graphics and object labels according to Museum style guide and branding. Prepare objects for display. Tasks include matting, framing, and creating mounts. Design and fabricate exhibition furniture and casework, as needed. Maintain exhibition furniture and supplies; monitor the functioning of electronic and digital equipment, and other installation components. Maintain and purchase hardware, tools, and other materials for object preparation and gallery installation. Direct and maintain exhibition lighting. Oversee digital media technology for exhibitions. Collaborate with the Registrar and Collections Specialist on exhibition packing and unpacking. Manage the storage of crates, exhibition furniture, and materials. Oversee and perform temporary and permanent exhibition gallery maintenance and exhibition installation, including painting, moving objects, and installing objects, text panels, and other gallery signage. Adhere to professional practices in the handling of objects. In coordination with the Registrar and Collections Specialist, refresh permanent exhibitions as needed, including rotating objects on display. Secure the services, schedule, train, and supervise outside contract art handlers on special projects with permanent collection and exhibitions and ensure a safe and productive work environment. Research and prepare cost estimates for fabrication, installation and deinstallation. Plan and coordinate with Museum staff to ensure that all requirements (aesthetic, interpretive, accessibility, conservation, credit, security, etc.) are met. Facilitate local transport of objects and related materials, as needed. Participate in departmental and other Museum planning meetings, as required. Provide outstanding representation of the Museum.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Excellent spatial and exhibition design skills.
• Demonstrated proficiency of handling collections and loaned objects in a wide variety of media.
• Ability to move or assist in moving heavy objects and ability to operate scissor lifts, pallet jacks, etc.
• Demonstrated proficiency of practices and methods in mount-making and ability to apply this knowledge with initiative and judgment, concern for detail, accuracy, and neat execution of work.
• Demonstrated skills and knowledge of shop equipment and ability to perform various skilled and semi-skilled tasks, including woodworking, brazing, and use of adhesives and fasteners, construction methods, and use of stationary and portable power tools. Experience framing, taping, and painting walls.
• Ability to balance multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and problem solve.
• Highly organized, accurate, and detail oriented.
• Demonstrated skills and knowledge of safe and archival storage materials and techniques for loaned and museum collection objects, including matting, framing, packing, and crating.
• Responsive to emails and phone calls from individuals within and outside of the Museum.
• Ability to take initiative and ask questions.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong writing and analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively and diplomatically with a team.

Requirements:

• BA (art or design preferred) and + 3 years relevant experience in Museum exhibit design and installation.
• Proficiency with design programs, such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, Google SketchUp.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office including Word, Outlook, Excel, Publisher.
• Occasional weekend and evening work.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to be seated/standing for extended periods.
• Ability to walk frequently, climb, push, lift (up to 60lbs), stoop, or carry equipment and materials.
• Position requires visual acuity and manual dexterity.
• Knowledge of Museum Professional Practices

Compensation: $45-50K DOE Annually

How to Apply: Submit resume and cover letter to hr@nordicmuseum.org with "Exhibition Designer and Preparator Application" in the subject line. Position open until filled.