Head Exhibit Preparator & Installation Lead

The Smart Museum of Art; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The Smart Museum of Art, the fine arts museum of the University of Chicago, seeks a Chief Preparator to lead the design, fabrication, and installation of exhibitions and collections. You will manage art handling, packing, and mounting while coordinating with curators, artists, and staff to meet deadlines and budgets.

You will work on-site with a diverse program, ensuring safety, AV and lighting setup, and collaboration with facilities and security.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7+ years of related museum/preparatory experience.
• Strong collaboration with curators, artists and staff to plan exhibitions.
• Advanced knowledge of art handling, packing, installation, and safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Oversee design, construction, installation and de-installation of exhibits.
• Coordinate with artists and curators to fabricate and mount artworks.
• Manage budgets, schedules, and personnel for exhibition projects.
• Supervise and train install crew and coordinate external contractors.
• Ensure proper art handling, climate control, lighting, and security during installations.

Skills

Excellent verbal and written沟通 skills

Multitask

Team collaboration

Education

Vocational training or apprenticeships

College degree in related field

Tools

Adobe CS

SketchUp

Rigging equipment

Job description

The Smart Museum of Art, the fine arts museum of the University of Chicago, seeks a Chief Preparator to lead the design, fabrication, and installation of exhibitions and collections. You will manage art handling, packing, and mounting while coordinating with curators, artists, and staff to meet deadlines and budgets.

You will work on-site with a diverse program, ensuring safety, AV and lighting setup, and collaboration with facilities and security.