Lead Preparator

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill; Elkins Hills (NC); On-site; USD 48,000 - 57,000; Full time

Job summary

The Lead Preparator position at the Ackland Art Museum (UNC Chapel Hill) oversees exhibition preparation and installation, including matting, framing, and signage design. You will manage movement of artworks, gallery maintenance, and work with contract crews under the Head of Exhibition Preparation.

Must hold a valid NC driver license and have prior experience in exhibit preparation, fabrication, and art-handling tasks. The role is a full-time on-site position based in Chapel Hill, NC.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent and 1 year of related experience.
• Experience with construction, fabrication, or exhibit design.
• Ability to lift heavy objects up to 50 pounds and climb ladders.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and install exhibitions, including matting and framing.
• Design and fabricate wall labels and signage for displays.
• Pack, unpack, and move artworks with care.
• Maintain galleries, storage vaults, and equipment.
• Train and supervise contract staff working on installations.

Skills

Exhibit design

Art handling

Construction

Site safety

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Outlook

Photoshop

Illustrator

SketchUp

Job description

Position Title

Lead Preparator

Posting Information

• Department: Ackland Art Museum-520500
• Career Area: Facilities and Skilled Trades
• Is this an internal only recruitment?: No
• Posting Open Date: 09/28/2026
• Application Deadline: 10/16/2026
• Position Type: Permanent Staff (SHRA)
• Position Number: 00036406
• Vacancy ID: P021417
• Full-time/Part-time Permanent/Time-Limited: Full-Time Permanent
• Hours per week: 40
• Work Schedule: Monday - Friday; 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
• Work Location: CHAPEL HILL, NC
• Position Location: North Carolina, US
• Hiring Range: $48,000- $57,000
• Notice to Applicants: This position is not eligible for H-1B sponsorship.

About the Institution

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit

The Ackland Art Museum is one of the leading public university art museums in the country. With nearly 30 employees, dozens of volunteers, and a budget of approximately $4M per year, the Ackland maintains a collection of over 20,000 works of art. It produces four major exhibitions and many smaller installations annually.

The museum receives nearly 60,000 visitors, always free of charge, who come from all 100 North Carolina counties, across the nation, and internationally each year. The Ackland serves UNC students, faculty, and the public through its special exhibitions, programs, and activities based on its permanent collection. The staff of the Ackland works with approximately 150 faculty and graduate instructors each year to provide opportunities for them to meet their teaching and research goals by bringing their classes to the museum (approximately 10,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students). The Ackland provides approximately 20 internships annually for both graduate and undergraduate students. It welcomes and trains a corps of 30 docents to work with K-12 schools and the public.

Position Summary

The Lead Preparator performs all duties related to exhibition preparation and installation as well as contributing to the care of the collection. This position includes but is not limited to, matting and framing; wall and signage design and fabrication; packing, unpacking and movement of works of art; gallery renovations; installation and lighting of artwork on display; physical care and organization of the permanent collection; and maintenance of galleries, storage vaults, equipment and workspaces. The Lead preparator advises on all issues relating to the display of specific artworks including mount making, pedestal design and construction; and a variety of audiovisual issues. The Lead Preparator works closely with and contributes to the training and oversight of contract employees. The Lead Preparator reports to the Head of Exhibition Preparation and Installation.

Must possess and maintain a valid North Carolina driver's license.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

High school diploma or equivalency and one year of experience that demonstrates possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work; or equivalent combination of training and experience.

Management Preferences

• Experience with construction, fabrication, or exhibit design.
• Knowledge of museum-standard matting and framing.
• Experience handling, packing, and storing artwork.
• Proficiency in Outlook and other communication tools.
• Proficiency in design software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, or SketchUp.

Special Physical/Mental Requirements

• Ability to use diverse hand and power tools (including cabinet and shop equipment of varying sizes and complexity), moving vans, hydraulic lifts, dollies with or without reasonable accommodations.
• Ability to climb and to work on ladders for extended periods of time; to reach works of art above shoulder level; to lift heavy objects up to 50 pounds; and to stand or to walk for an eight-hour workday with or without reasonable accommodations.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Contact Information

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at [phone] or send an email to [e-mail]

Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.