Museum Art Handler & Installation Specialist

The University of Texas at Austin; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 41,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Museum admission

20% discount at Museum Store

Job summary

The Blanton Museum of Art at the University of Texas at Austin seeks a Preparator to support proper care, handling, installation, and maintenance of the museum’s permanent collection, exhibitions, and loans. This role collaborates with preparators and registrars to ensure safe housing, framing, storage, and documentation.

Responsibilities include preparing artworks, installing/de-installing, packing, and traveling as needed; maintaining preparation areas, equipment, and confidentiality; and

Qualifications

• 3-4 years of professional art handling experience.
• Education equivalent to High school graduation or GED; Bachelor's may substitute for up to two years of experience.
• Ability to safely employ tools, painting equipment, aerial platform lift, pallet jack, forklift, ladders, scaffolding, etc.
• Excellent English language communication; art history terms
• Ability to follow instructions and work cooperatively with a team.
• Microsoft Office Suite and experience in collections database systems preferred.
• Valid Class C driver's license with acceptable driving record.

Responsibilities

• Maintain museum-wide artwork lighting systems, including bulb replacement, inventory control, and calibration.
• Place orders for new equipment after research and discussion with curators and staff.
• Assist with receiving/releasing works and loading/unloading with registrar.
• Maintain art preparation areas and storage rooms; keep tools and supplies in stock.
• Maintain lists of display furniture and storage locations.
• Prepare works for loan, installation, or storage with registrars or conservator.
• Handle artworks following museum guidelines; install/deinstall, pack/unpack with registrar coordination.
• Travel as courier for loans/exhibitions or for packing/unpacking.
• Assist with carpentry, painting, art lighting, and local pickups/deliveries.
• Document location changes after each art move.
• Maintain confidentiality of all projects and schedules.
• Stay informed on conservation requirements for housing and handling.

Skills

3-4 years experience

English proficiency

Teamwork

Art handling

Safety procedures

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Microsoft Office

Art database systems

Job description

The Blanton Museum of Art at the University of Texas at Austin seeks a Preparator to support proper care, handling, installation, and maintenance of the museum’s permanent collection, exhibitions, and loans. This role collaborates with preparators and registrars to ensure safe housing, framing, storage, and documentation.

Responsibilities include preparing artworks, installing/de-installing, packing, and traveling as needed; maintaining preparation areas, equipment, and confidentiality; and