Lead Art Preparator & Installation Specialist

Glenstone; Potomac (MD); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) with match

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Glenstone seeks a skilled Preparator to support and lead installations of the permanent collection and exhibitions in Potomac, MD. You will manage artwork handling, packing, shipping, and travel of works, coordinating with curators, conservators, and registrars to ensure safe, timely delivery.

The role requires five years of museum-handling experience, strong technical skills, and a collaborative mindset to mentor future leaders in a dynamic nonprofit environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts, Architecture, Art History, Museum Studies, or related field.
• At least five years of professional art handling, fabrication, carpentry, or A/V tech experience.
• Experience with museum standards for care and handling of art objects.
• Strong dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
• Ability to plan and execute projects with minimal supervision.
• Excellent communication and teamwork.
• Certified in hydraulic lifts, forklifts, scissor lifts, rigging, and related equipment.
• Ability to lift up to 70 lbs and work in tight spaces.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and art information systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead installation and deinstallation of artworks.
• Supervise contract art handling teams during installations.
• Design and fabricate mounts for display and storage.
• Operate heavy equipment used in installation.
• Collaborate with Registration and Conservation on crates and transport.
• Maintain artwork locations in collection database.
• Inventory of tools and supplies.
• Courier artworks domestically and internationally.
• Conduct routine gallery maintenance.

Skills

Art handling

Fabrication

Carpentry

A/V tech

Rigging

Project management

Communication

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Microsoft Office

Conservation knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts, Architecture, Art History, Museum Studies

Tools

Adobe Creative Suite

SketchUp

3-D modelling

Job description

Glenstone seeks a skilled Preparator to support and lead installations of the permanent collection and exhibitions in Potomac, MD. You will manage artwork handling, packing, shipping, and travel of works, coordinating with curators, conservators, and registrars to ensure safe, timely delivery.

The role requires five years of museum-handling experience, strong technical skills, and a collaborative mindset to mentor future leaders in a dynamic nonprofit environment.