Special Collections Preparator
Special Collections Preparator
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Job Description
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Reporting to the Special Collections Registrar and Exhibitions Manager the Special Collections Preparator performs a range of duties related to the exhibition and care of the Boston Athenums rich and varied special collections. In consultation with the registrar and exhibitions manager curatorial and conservation colleagues this position is responsible for the preparation installation and display of special collections in both longterm installations and rotating temporary exhibitions encompassing paintings sculpture the decorative arts prints photographs and rare books. The position also supports collections management and planning and participates in the proper storage maintenance monitoring and inventory of special collections with an emphasis on paintings sculpture and decorative arts. This position requires prior knowledge of art handling best practices and health and safety standards.This is an inperson position
RESPONSIBILITIES
Installs and deinstalls exhibitions. Physically handles and installs artwork loads and unloads trucks hangs signage and configures lighting. Uses hand tools power tools ladders dollies lifts and related equipment. Packs unpacks and crates objects according to professional museum standards.
Prepares and maintains the exhibition gallery and other display spaces. Cleans moves and installs pedestals display cases shelves platforms graphics and exhibition labels. Light painting as needed.
Prepares objects for display and storage. Mats and frames objects including mat cutting hinging and frame assembly. Designs and fabricates mounts and custom housing utilizing knowledge of construction methods use of appropriate adhesives and fasteners and safe use of tools. Mountsobjects hangs framed artwork fabricates housing and completes related tasks as needed.
Assists with exhibition planning layout and design. Drafts art movement and installation plans.
Maintains safe clean and wellorganized storage and prep areas and adequate supplies for packing storing and exhibition prep. Researches and assists with implementation of efficient storage and display methods. Maintains an inventory of materials tools and equipment.
Participates in the safe transport of art objects throughout the building.
When needed works with contracted preparators art handlers and others to safely complete object moves and exhibition installation.
Assists Registrar with locating/returning objects to storage collection inventories reporting changes/damage to artwork and collections management and database tasks.
Maintains appropriate collection documentation as required.
Conducts regularly scheduled inspections of permanent installations exhibition spaces and storage areas. Participates in collection maintenance and preventive care as needed.
Works closely with special collections conservation and facilities staff. Attends regular meetings with the special collections department exhibition team and others as needed.
Works closely with staff interns and volunteers and contractors to ensure the physical safety of the collection.
Maintains current knowledge of changing industry standards.
Performs other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS
Bachelors degree strongly preferred Major or concentration in Museums Studies Art or Art History preferred.
Minimum of three years experience in art handling exhibition preparation installation and collections care in a museum or special collections setting required.
Strong working knowledge of installation methods (mounting matting framing) required.
Demonstrated knowledge of current professional museum standards and best practices for installation object care and packing/crating including occupational hazards and safety precautions.
Experience with the safe use and care of manual and power tools. Knowledge of the use of lifts and other heavy equipment a plus.
Some knowledge of and experience with collections management systems such as TMS (The Museum System) or CollectionSpace
Working knowledge of Google Suite and Microsoft 360 required. Familiarity withphoto editing software such as Photoshop and design and modeling software such as SketchUp preferred.
Ability to exercise good judgement confidentiality and discretion.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Proven attention to detail and conscientiousness.
Proactive positive and collaborative approach to troubleshooting and problem solving.
Excellent time management skills and the ability to prioritize work and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
Must be able to work independently and collaboratively in a highly professional environment.
Flexibility with schedule such asearly mornings late evenings or weekend hours mayoccasionally be required.
Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds.
Commitment to fostering a workplace culture of teamwork diversity and inclusion.
Submit to and pass background check including criminal history personal references employment verifications and Registry of Motor Vehicles (if applicable).
Research shows that women and people from underrepresented groups often apply to jobs only if they meet 100 of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that someone meets 100 of the qualifications for a role. If much of this job description describes you then please apply for this role.
TO APPLY:Please submit a cover letter and resume
The Boston Athenum is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome candidates who will increase our diversity; we encourage candidates of color and all diverse candidates to apply and are committed to hiring individuals who value a diverse and inclusive work environment. The Boston Athenum is also committed to providing access equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment. To request a reasonable accommodation please contact HR Generalist Nora Conley ator
.
ABOUT THE BOSTON ATHENAEUM
Founded in 1807 the Boston Athenaeum is one of the oldest independent cultural institutions in the United States. In addition to functioning as a membership library with circulating collections and as a center of engagement and discourse we facilitate public interaction with art and rare materials through exhibitions firsthand study digitization conservation and programming; support new scholarship in the humanities through research fellowships and academic collaborations; and provide opportunities for artists authors and scholars to share their work in an interdisciplinary forum.
The mission of the Boston Athenaeum is to engage all who seek knowledge by making accessible the librarys collections and spaces thereby inspiring reflection discourse and creative expression. The Athenaeum aspires to spark conversations of critical importance foster an engaged diverse membership and cultivate our librarys dynamic collections for research and enjoyment. Our core values include accountability diversity inclusion integrity stewardship and transparency.
Employment Type
Full Time
