Art Preparator | San Antonio, TX

JOB SUMMARY: Under the supervision of the Director of Exhibits and Registration, and in collaboration with fine art preparator and registrar teams, primary responsibility is to manage and maintain exhibition lighting for collection and loan objects on display. As a preparator, responsible for proper handling of fine art works to support an active schedule of temporary exhibitions, permanent collection installations, photography, packing/shipping, conservation, and research projects. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

•Primary responsibility is for lighting and re-lamping of all gallery spaces and casework on a routine basis (roughly 2.5 days per week) 

•Conduct research on new lighting technologies. Assist museum in transition to a new lighting system (or retrofit of the existing systems) museum-wide 

•Perform maintenance and inventory of lighting fixtures and create lighting supply orders as needed; perform routine maintenance of high lift. Maintains light supply room regularly 

•Assist in art handling for installation and de-installation of permanent collection, loans, and temporary exhibitions 

•Perform local pick-ups and deliveries of artworks and packing and unpacking of artworks 

•Assist in loading and unloading of all art shipments via truck and van shipments 

•Assist registrars with the care and maintenance of collections in storage areas 

•Assist photographer in handling artworks, and set-ups for photographic work, as directed 

•Assist in framing/un-framing artworks; installs proper hardware, archival backing boards, and security hardware for paintings or framed works 

•Assist in the care and maintenance of the SAMA Van for local art transport 

•Assist in maintenance of permanent and temporary exhibition galleries, such as wall, exhibit case, pedestal repair and paint touch-up, cleaning, label replacements, lamp replacement, as needed 

•This position requires work to be done on-site at museum or other specified location, full-time. After-hours and weekend work required occasionally. 

QUALIFICATIONS: 

•Bachelor’s degree in fine art, art history, or related field preferred 

•Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills 

•Minimum of 7 years of art handling experience 

•Ability to maintain effective working relationships internally and externally, which includes demonstrating a pleasant, courteous, and professional demeanor and presence at all times 

•Ability to work well with others; willingness to learn, follow instructions, and work as a team member 

•Ability to meet scheduled deadlines and work well under pressure 

•Experience using hand and power tools; general mechanical skills 

•Demonstrated carpentry skills; knowledge of casework construction, packing materials, crate design and construction; use of cements, glues, paints, and solvents 

•Knowledge of museum lighting standards preferred 

•Familiarity with museum mounting techniques 

•Ability to work on a ladder and a high lift 

•Electrical / electronics experience 

•Ability to lift 50 pounds 

•Excellent driving record 


PAY RANGE: $40,000 - $42,000

BENEFITS: 

Health, Dental, Vision insurance 

Paid time off 

Investment package 

TO APPLY: 

Please send resume and cover letter to Heather Fulton, Director of Registration and Collections, San Antonio Museum of Art. Email: heather.fulton@samuseum.org