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seattleartmuseum

Art Handler/Preparator – On Call

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ABOUT THE ROLE

The Art Handler/Preparator works on a temporary basis with the Installation and Design team in art handling and gallery preparation of temporary and permanent installations and gallery maintenance.

ABOUT SAM
As SAM heads into its second century, we are boldly reimagining what we can and should be. Our goal is to be a model for the future of museums - a bold, dynamic hub of creativity, belonging, and cultural leadership, shaping the future of art and community. Embracing new ways of engaging communities and seeking innovative partnerships - all while keeping art and community at the center of what we do. This ambitious effort represents a transformative shift and radically redefining how art museums operate. This is a pivotal moment for SAM, and we are seeking great talent to join us on our journey. Working at SAM is not just a job—it's a chance to be part of a vibrant, creative community.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Assists with art installations of temporary and permanent installations
  • Assists Lead Art Handler with the installation and deinstallation of artwork utilizing established art handling, hanging, installation, and movement techniques to assure safety
  • Performs necessary tasks with Design & Installation team such as gallery preparation, painting, and limited on-site construction
WE ARE LOOKING FOR
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in liberal arts, art history, studio art, design, museum studies, or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • One year exhibition installation experience
  • Knowledge of basic art handling, conservation, registration, and art security requirements
  • Proficiency in the areas of art handling, carpentry, and use of power and hand tools and heavy equipment
  • Ability to work with close attention to detail
  • Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with colleagues
  • Exercise discretion in maintaining confidentiality of sensitive information
  • Basic computer literacy
  • Ability to pass and maintain security background check clearance

Preferred Qualifications

  • Three years exhibition installation experience
  • Experience in a fine arts museum
FLSA Status: On-Call, Non-Exempt
Reports To: Head Preparator
Work Schedule: The schedule for this is role is variable. Shifts are typically scheduled during business hours Monday - Friday. However, the needs of the role and support of the department or organization may require evening and weekend work.
WORK CONDITIONS
  • Work areas are primarily inside, in a climate-controlled environment with moderate background noise, in galleries, warehouses, and workshops. Workspaces may include outdoor areas. Noise levels range from light to excessive and there is exposure to varying air-quality standards. Objects in the collection may contain pesticide residues or other toxic materials, either inherently, or from previous treatments and there may be exposure to potentially toxic material. There may be risk from exposure to these materials and wearing appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves and a respirator is required. Training and PPE will be provided.
  • Approximately 5% of time is spent stationary while working at a desk. Balance of time (approximately 95%) is spent moving around the work area. Occasional extended periods of standing may be required.
  • Clear and effective verbal and written communication in English with artists and co-workers is necessary.
  • Ability to effectively use a computer screen and interpret printed materials, memos and other appropriate paperwork.
  • Ability to effectively and regularly operate a computer, keyboard, telephone, and other office productivity machinery, such as copy machines and printers, and ability to inspect, prepare and use paperwork, files, equipment, and supplies is necessary.
  • Ability to transport up to fifty (50) pounds of equipment and supplies.
  • The ability to work safely at heights is required, ability to work on ladders and scaffolding is required. Safe operation of multiple types of personnel and scissor lifts is required.
BENEFITS

On-Call SAM Staff have access to an onsite fitness facility and SAM’s museum library, can access a no-cost Employee Assistance Program resource, enjoy a 20% discount at the SAM Museum Shop and a 15% discount at SAM’s MARKET cafe, receive 2 SAM guest passes per quarter worked, can access 8 Home Free Guarantee cab rides home per year, and accrue paid sick leave at a rate of .0385 per hour worked.

ACCOMODATION
The Seattle Art Museum will consider reasonable accommodations for all employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions/duties of this position. If you need an accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact hr@seattleartmuseum.org. For candidates, we ask that, if possible, you wait until you're invited to a screen, online technical assessment or interview before requesting an accommodation.

SAM is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and we are committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming workplace for all employees and volunteers. Guided by our mission to connect art to life and engage diverse communities, we strive to create a sense of belonging for all of the communities we serve. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, military status, or any other protected characteristic

Not sure you check every box? Research shows that candidates from underrepresented backgrounds often only apply if they meet 100% of the criteria. If you believe you could excel in this role, we encourage you to apply!