Part-Time Art Handler I-1

American University; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking institution as a Museum Preparator, where your skills in art installation and object care will shine. This part-time role offers the chance to work closely with exhibition teams, ensuring that artworks are displayed to their fullest potential. You'll engage in hands-on tasks, from preparing gallery spaces to assisting artists during installations. With a commitment to meaningful change, this position allows you to contribute to the cultural landscape while developing your professional skills in a supportive environment. If you're passionate about art and eager to make an impact, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Benefits

200% Matching Retirement Plan

Tuition Benefits for Staff and Families

Leadership Development Certificates

Qualifications

• Experience with installation and de-installation of complex art installations.
• Knowledge of museum best practices for object care and handling.

Responsibilities

• Assist with installation and de-installation of artworks.
• Prepare gallery spaces for exhibitions, including wall repair.

Skills

Installation of Artworks

Object Care and Handling

Interpersonal Communication

Organizational Skills

Time Management

Education

1-3 years experience in Art Installations

Knowledge of Museum Best Practices

Tools

Hand Tools

Power Tools

Forklifts

Scissor Lifts

Job description

American University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Learn more about American University

Department

Museum Preparator

Time Type

Part time

Job Type

Casual

FLSA Status

Non-Exempt

Work Modality

Union:

SEIU Local 500 - Provost & Enrollment Division

This position is part of a collective bargaining unit represented by SEIU Local 500 - Provost & Enrollment Division. That means the terms and conditions of your employment are governed by university policy (including the Staff Personnel Policies Manual) and any collective bargaining agreement entered into between American University and SEIU Local 500 - Provost & Enrollment Division.

Summary

Job Description:

Art Handlers/Installers assist with delivery/receiving and installation/de-installation of artworks and preparation and maintenance of exhibition spaces. Responsibilities may also include: construction of exhibition furniture and crates; packing and fitting crates; and assistance with inventory control and maintenance of tools and equipment.

The Art Handlers/Installers generally work during the 3-5 week installation and de-installation periods between the AU Museum’s various exhibition cycles, with other hours as required. Art Handlers/Installers report to and are under the supervision of the AU Museum’s Preparator and work closely with and provide support and assistance to the Registrar.

Essential Functions

• Prepare and organize tools and equipment required for installation and de-installation.
• Assist Preparator and Art Handler 2 staff with upkeep and cleaning of museum objects, pedestals, vitrines, tools and equipment storage and art collection spaces.
• Assist with incoming and outgoing art and equipment shipments.
• Prepare gallery spaces for exhibition, including: wall repair and painting.
• Assist in the construction and preparation of art installations, exhibition furniture, crates and packaging.
• Handle, move, place and prepare art objects.
• Assist artists who are on-site for installation/de-installation.
• Assist with the installation of A/V equipment, including speakers, monitors, and projectors.
• Assist with lighting installation of gallery spaces.
• Install labels, signage and other didactic materials.
• Other duties as assigned.
  
  

Position Type/Expected Hours Of Work

• Part-time.
• 19 hours/wk.
  
  

Salary Range

• $23-$27/hr. (commensurate with experience).
  
  

Required Education And Experience

• 1-3 years of experience with hands-on installation and de-installation of complex and preferably contemporary Art installations.
• Knowledge of and experience with museum best practices for object care and handling, packing and moving of artworks, and appropriate display techniques.
• Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated experience working with exhibition teams.
• Good organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work in physically demanding situations, including heavy lifting up to 50 pounds and working at heights.
  
  

Preferred Education And Experience

• Valid driver’s license.
• Some proficiency in carpentry, fabrication and production, or willingness to learn.
• Experience with workshop skills and safety, including using hand and power tools.
• Knowledge of the use of: forklifts, scissor lifts, scaffolding, and rigging and willingness to learn and acquire licensure.
• A/V installation and troubleshooting experience.
  
  

Benefits

AU offers a competitive benefits package including a 200% matching retirement plan, tuition benefits for full-time staff and their families, several leadership development certificates, and has been recognized by the American Heart Association as a fit-friendly worksite. Click here to learn about American University's unique benefit options.

Other Details

• Hiring offers for this position are contingent on successful completion of a background check.
• Employees in staff positions at American University must deliver their services to the university from either the District of Columbia, Maryland, or Virginia, or perform work on-site at the university.
• Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
• American University is an E-Verify employer.
  
  

Current American University Employees

American University current employees must apply through their employee Workday account. If you are a current employee at American University, please log into Workday and select the Find Jobs report which will take you to our internal career listings.

Contact Us

For more information or assistance with the American University careers site, email [e-mail].

American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual’s genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities.