This is a union position.

The Occasional Art Handler assists the Chief Preparator and Associate Preparator in handling both permanent collection and loaned works of art; tasks include movement, installation, de-installation, packing and un-packing, storage of objects, and maintenance of gallery spaces and storage areas. Ensures the safe handling and movement of all types of works of art.

QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• High School Diploma or equivalent necessary; Bachelor’s degree in studio art or architecture preferred.
• One or more years’ experience in exhibit installation and preparations is required.
• A valid Pennsylvania driver’s license is also required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Must be familiar with museum standards for conservation, preservation, and object handling.
• Knowledge of art handling techniques and safety procedures and the ability to tend to progressive responsibilities working with and handling high-value museum objects in a variety of media is required.
• Basic woodworking skills and knowledge of hand and power tools required.
• Availability to work some evenings and weekend hours.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must have good dexterity, hand eye coordination, and the ability to climb and to work on ladders for extended periods of time.
• To reach work with hands above shoulder level.
• Lift heavy objects (50 lbs.).
• Stand or to walk for an eight-hour work day.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Assists with the installation and de-installation of permanent collection-based and temporary loan-based exhibitions.
• Moves, hangs, and positions exhibition casework and works of art of varying sizes, media, and fragility in such fashion as to ensure maximum security and safety.
• Assists with fabricating or finishing items needed for installation, including plinths, cleats, hanging brackets, risers, and cable hangers.
• Promptly informs supervisor and registrar regarding objects with condition concerns or of damaged objects and follows collections management documentation procedures.
• Using proper carts and supplies, moves objects in museum galleries, storage, and preparation areas as directed for exhibition, acquisition, loan, photography, and conservation.
• Takes care to stow objects efficiently.
• Supports, stabilizes, and covers artworks on carts, tables, shelves, and pallets.
• Ensures location changes are recorded and provided to registrar.
• Wraps and pads works of art with paper, plastic, foam or other materials as directed to protect against vibration, moisture, or impact; shapes and contours internal packing to ensure proper support during movement.
• Places art works in boxes, containers, or crates manually or using hoist. Responsible for securing containers with screws, bolts, tape, nails, or metal bands, and moving to receiving dock.
• Performs routine maintenance, such as cleaning glass, dusting, and removing smudges and fingerprints from cases and walls; carefully spackles holes in gallery walls and applies touchup paint to walls and exhibition furniture, ensuring the safety of artwork and building finishes at all times.
• Mounts, attaches hanging hardware, and installs exhibition signage and labels inside museum.
• Operates equipment and tools in a safe and proper manner; makes minor repairs as directed; promptly informs supervisor regarding damaged equipment or the need to replace or service equipment.
• Shares responsibility for maintaining safe, clean, and orderly work and storage areas.
• Works professionally and cooperatively with all installation personnel and other employees, contractors, artists, and couriers.
• Follows all art-handling protocols and procedures as instructed by the conservator and registrar.
• Understands and adheres to all security rules and guidelines of Carnegie Museum of Art and Carnegie Museums, as well as regulations stipulated by such agencies as OSHA, TSA, and DHS.
• Works overtime as necessary, understanding that as much advance notice will be given as possible by supervisor.
• Performs other various duties, as necessary or as requested, by supervisor.

Please see a full list of requirements on the Carnegie Museums' Career Site.