Head Preparator position, Phoebe Hearst Museum

Museum Preparator, Principal job id#13653
	Departmental Overview The Museum was founded in 1901 by Phoebe Apperson Hearst, a visionary who saw the Hearst as the cultural cornerstone of one of the world’s leading research institutions. Today, the Hearst Museum houses the oldest and largest anthropological collection in the Western U.S., preserving and interpreting a global record of material culture as represented by more than 3.8 million cataloged objects. The Museum aims to promote the history and diversity of human cultures through research, education, exhibitions and public programs. The Phoebe Hearst Museum has received funds to relocate a substantial portion of its ethnographic and archaeological collections from campus to its off-site storage facility in Richmond. The Principal Preparator’s role is critical in safely and efficiently preparing objects for transfer to the new facility. Responsibilities include: evaluating object needs and designing and fabricating safe storage and travel mounts for ethnographic objects; working with the Assistant Project Manager, as well as permanent museum staff, help organize and prepare collections in anticipation of the move, assist in the physical move as needed and in reshelving the objects in their new location. Responsibilities Storage Mounts, Object Packing and Work Flow Assist in pre-move organization of objects; evaluate condition, orientation and stability of objects, design and fabricate storage & travel mounts same; prep oversized objects prior to relocation by professional art handlers; once in new storage location, carefully unpack and secure objects as needed; working with other project staff ensure new locations have been tracked for entry into collections management database. Consult with regular collections and conservation staff to ensure safest methods and materials to use; assist Photographer in object handling as needed. Work Area Management and Organization Organize and maintain staging and packing areas; regularly clean and remove trash from work areas; monitor use of supplies and notify project manager of needs in advance. Supervision Support Assistant Project Manager in supervision of other project preparators. Required Qualifications - Patience and attention to detail - Basic carpentry skills and ability to use hand-held power tools - Ability to follow both written and verbal instructions - Punctual and dependable - Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing - Ability to work both independently and as a member of a team - Manual dexterity/ability to carefully carry and handle museum objects - Ability to climb and descend stairs carrying museum objects safely - Ability to climb and descend a step ladder to safely retrieve or place objects in storage units - Ability to lift up to 50 pounds - Must be able and willing to drive the museum’s van Preferred Qualifications - Previous museum collections relocation project; preferably in an ethnographic or archaeological museum - Ability to assess artifact condition and determine the best approach for handling fragile objects Salary & Benefits Monthly: $2920 - $3398 Annual: $35,040 - $40,776 How to Apply Please submit your cover letter and resume as a single attachment when applying. Driving Required A valid driver's license and DMV check for driving record is required. Other Information This is a full-time 18-month position which is not subject to career conversion under Article 31, Positions/Appointments in the UC-UPTE Agreement, Section 3c. Criminal Background Check This position has been designated as sensitive and may require a Criminal Background Check. We reserve the right to make employment contingent upon successful completion of a Criminal Background Check.