Freelance Art Handling Technician

Art Institute of Chicago

Chicago (IL)

On-site

USD 25,000 - 33,000

Full time

3 days ago

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Job summary

The Art Institute of Chicago seeks a Freelance Art Handling Technician to assist with art movement for exhibitions, displays, and offsite storage. You will collaborate with curators, registrars, conservators, and facilities to ensure safe handling and proper presentation of artworks.

Responsibilities include packing/unpacking, coordinating with departments, and maintaining documentation. Requires 2+ years art handling experience and strong dexterity; TSA compliance knowledge is a plus.

Qualifications

HS diploma or GED preferred.
Minimum two years’ experience handling works of art.
Knowledge of safe and current best practices for art handling.
Exceptional manual dexterity with hand and power tools.
Understanding/experience of rigging methods, AV, or mount installation.
Expertise preparing display case work and housing for artworks.
Effective communication and multitasking skills.
Computer skills; knowledge of Google Suite; ability to learn museum databases.

Responsibilities

Perform art handling and installation, including deinstallations and rotations, coordinating with other departments.
Pack/unpack objects with appropriate materials; enter packing notes in the database.
Work with registrars and conservators to ensure art is cared for and displayed to specifications.
Assist with incoming/outgoing shipments and transfer to storage or exhibition spaces.
Support movement of objects to offsite storage and monitor TSA regulations.
Conduct weekly gallery audits under supervision and maintain vaults and storage.
Participate in training and adopt new art handling techniques and safe practices.