Senior Exhibition Installations Lead

National Museum of Wildlife Art; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Smart Museum of Art in Chicago seeks a Chief Preparator to lead the planning, fabrication, and installation of exhibitions, ensuring safe handling and professional best practices.

The role collaborates with curators, artists, and Smart staff to execute diverse projects, manage budgets and schedules, and coordinate with University facilities on site.

This is a full-time, on-site position focused on complex exhibition programs and collections care.

Qualifications

• Minimum requirements include vocational training or equivalent experience in a related field.
• 7+ years of work experience in a related job discipline.
• No four-year degree required.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the design, construction, installation and de-installation of museum exhibits and displays.
• Collaborate with artists and curators to fabricate and mount artworks; customize installations.
• Define work orders and execute project plans; oversee staff, crew, and external contractors.
• Manage technical elements of builds and AV arrangements, including procurement and deployment.
• Maintain lighting systems, storage facilities, and gallery spaces in collaboration with facilities.
• Prepare works of art for display, including matting and framing.

Skills

Art handling

Exhibit installation

Lighting systems

Matting and framing

Mount making

AV installation

Carpentry

Safety procedures

Collaboration

Project management

Education

Related field degree

Tools

Adobe CS

SketchUp

Rigging

Power tools

Job description

Smart Museum of Art in Chicago seeks a Chief Preparator to lead the planning, fabrication, and installation of exhibitions, ensuring safe handling and professional best practices.

The role collaborates with curators, artists, and Smart staff to execute diverse projects, manage budgets and schedules, and coordinate with University facilities on site.

This is a full-time, on-site position focused on complex exhibition programs and collections care.