Part-Time Art Handler II-1

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

Job summary

An established institution is seeking a dedicated Art Handler II to assist with the installation and maintenance of art exhibitions. This role involves hands-on work with artworks, including delivery, setup, and care. Ideal candidates will have significant experience in museum practices and exhibit preparation, showcasing their skills in a dynamic environment. Join a team that values creativity and precision, contributing to impactful exhibitions that inspire and engage the community. If you are passionate about art and possess the necessary skills, this is an exciting opportunity to make a difference in the art world.

Benefits

200% matching retirement plan

Tuition benefits for staff and families

Leadership development certificates

Qualifications

• Experience with complex art installations and museum best practices.
• Strong communication and organization skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Oversee preparation and organization of tools for installations.
• Prepare gallery spaces for exhibitions, including wall repair.

Skills

Installation and de-installation of artworks

Object care and handling

Communication skills

Time management

Physical strength (lifting up to 50 pounds)

Education

4-7 years experience in art installation

Knowledge of museum best practices

Tools

Forklifts

Scissor lifts

Power tools

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 Handler II assists with delivery/receiving and installation/de-installation of artworks and preparation and maintenance of exhibition spaces, while also taking on responsibilities of specialized tasks and projects with a greater level of experience in museum and gallery installation, fabrication, framing, conservation, visual displays, graphics, and lighting. Responsibilities may also include: the construction of exhibition furniture and crates; packing and fitting crates, and assistance with inventory control and maintenance of tools and equipment; as well as woodshop maintenance and the planning and fabrication of pedestals, displays, and museum furniture; framing, mounting, and mat cutting for exhibition and conservation purposes; A/V and technical installation; designing and installing graphic and didactic display elements; lighting and lighting inventory.

The Art Handler II works during the 3-5 week installation and de-installation period between the AU Museum’s various exhibition cycles, and assists the Museum Preparator with specialized roles, tasks and additional intermittent projects. Art Hander II works under the supervision of the AU Museum’s Preparator and works closely with, and provides support and assistance, to the Registrar.

Essential Functions

• Oversee Art Handler 1 preparation and organization of tools and equipment required for installation and de-installation, and provide additional support in woodshop.
• Perform regular maintenance and upkeep of museum tools and hardware, as well as the upkeep and cleaning of museum objects, pedestals and vitrines, and storage and collections spaces.
• Assist Registrar with coordinating incoming and outgoing art and equipment shipments.
• Prepare gallery spaces for exhibition, including: wall repair and painting.
• Facilitate the construction and preparation of art installations, exhibition furniture, crates and packaging, from design to product.
• Handle, move, place and prepare art objects.
• Coordinate with the Museum Preparator the installation and layout requests of artists and curators who are on-site for installation/de-installation.
• Work with Museum Preparator to ensure the proper installation of A/V equipment, including speakers, monitors, and projectors.
• Assist with lighting and lighting design 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

• $25-$30/hr.
  
  

Required Education And Experience

• 4-7 years experience with hands-on installation and de-installation of complex and preferably contemporary Art installations.
• Superior 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.
• 1-3 years prior experience working with and coordinating exhibitions crews.
• Demonstrated organization 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.
• Specialized experience in carpentry, fabrication, design and museum display production.
• Demonstrated experience in woodshop management and workshop skills and safety, including using hand and power tools.
• Demonstrated experience with/licensure and use of: forklifts, scissor lifts, scaffolding, and rigging.
• Experienced in industry standard A/V design, installation and troubleshooting.
• Knowledge of OSHA safety and compliance qualifications.
  
  

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.