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Temporary Art Preparator

Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh
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The Temporary Art Preparator is responsible for the handling of exhibitry, specimens, and objects both in the permanent galleries and on loan in temporary galleries; tasks include movement, installation, deinstallation, packing and un-packing, storage of objects, carpentry, framing, lighting, and occasional maintenance of gallery spaces and storage areas.  Exhibition Preparators at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History perform a critical role with the museum and collection by insuring the safe handling and movement of exhibitry, specimens, and objects.

This is a temporary assignment expected to run from September 2, 2025 through November 7, 2025.

 

QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

  • Related work experience in exhibition installation and preparation is preferred; High school Diploma or equivalent necessary.
  • Related work experience in carpentry, lighting, graphics, mounting, matting and framing, object handling and installation preferred.
  • Must have valid Pennsylvania driver’s license.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES:

  • Ability to work independently (with little/no direct supervision) to satisfactorily fulfill both daily shift responsibilities and specific work/duty assignments.
  • Possess good hands-on knowledge and skill in use of tools and methods necessary to install, deinstall, and maintain exhibits.
  • Possess a good “team” mindset to work well with both other technicians and other department personnel.
  • Punctual and good time-management skills.
  • Good practical computer use background (email, tables, spreadsheets, word processing).
  • Some weekend and evening hours may be required.
  • Hand and power tools of varying size and complexity; table saw, grinder/sander, drill press, multi- meter, various electronic equipment, ladders, scissor lift, material handling equipment (pallet jack, forklift, dollies, etc.).

 PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Good manual dexterity and strength to effectively use tools and equipment necessary to complete maintenance/repairs.
  • Ability to stand and walk for long periods of time.
  • Ability to occasionally lift heavy objects alone (up to about 75 pounds alone).
  • Ability to climb various ladders and use other multi-story lift equipment without hesitation to complete repair/maintenance tasks.
  • Ability to bend, turn, lie on floor (such as reaching into exhibit cabinets) to complete work.
  • Good vision and hearing necessary to fulfill the required work assignments and interact with other staff.
  • Ability to work in all reasonable weather conditions.
  • Ability to work daytime and evening hours (weekdays and weekends) as well as holidays.

 

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

  • Meet daily with and Temporary Exhibitions Manager and, as needed, with the Maintenance Manager to compile an ongoing work schedule.
  • Works professionally and cooperatively with all installation personnel and other employees, contractors, and couriers.
  • Follows all exhibition protocols and procedures as instructed by the Director of Exhibitions and Temporary Exhibitions Manager.
  • Understands and adheres to all security rules and guidelines of the Carnegie Museum of Natural History and Carnegie Museums, as well as regulations stipulated by such agencies as OSHA, TSA, and DHS
  • Install and deinstall of temporary exhibitions. Under the direction of the Director of Exhibitions, in conjunction with the Temporary Exhibitions Manager and Maintenance Manager, moves, hangs, and positions exhibition graphics, casework, and other exhibitry in such fashion as to ensure maximum security and safety.
  • Assists with fabricating or finishing items needed for installation, including plinths, pedestals, cleats, hanging brackets, risers, cable hangers, and temporary walls or dividers, and painting gallery walls.
  • Promptly informs appropriate personnel regarding objects with condition concerns or of damaged objects and follows collections management documentation procedures.
  • Install and adjust fixtures to light exhibitry; replace fixtures as needed.
  • Mounts, attaches hanging hardware, and installs exhibition signage and labels.
  • May occasionally need to repair or construct standard boxes, cartons, and crates for shipping as directed by Travelling Exhibitions Manager.
  • Wraps and pads exhibitry 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 exhibitry 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.
  • Load and unload shipment trucks.
  • Responsible for maintaining safe, clean, and orderly work and supply storage areas on a daily basis.
  • Works overtime as necessary, understanding that as much advance notice will be given as possible by supervisors.
  • Performs other various duties, as requested, by supervisor.