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Assistant Preparator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Ferris State University

Preparator

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$17.51/hr

  • Medical

  • PTO

Preparator Job no: 498064 Work type: Staff Location: Grand Rapids, MI 49503 Categories ... The university will not assist with any F-1 EADs, OPT, H1B, etc. Position Type: Staff Required ...

Ferris State University

Preparator

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$17.51/hr

  • Medical

  • PTO

Preparator Apply now Job no: 498064 Work type: Staff Location: Grand Rapids, MI 49503 Categories ... The university will not assist with any F-1 EADs, OPT, H1B, etc. Position Type: Staff Required ...

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Assistant Preparator information

What does an assistant preparator do?

An Assistant Preparator helps set up, install, and maintain artworks and exhibits in museums, galleries, or similar institutions. They assist with tasks like unpacking, handling, mounting, and moving artworks, often working under the guidance of a head preparator or curator. The role requires attention to detail, understanding of safe art handling techniques, and collaboration with other museum staff to ensure exhibitions are presented professionally and safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant preparator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Preparator, you need a basic understanding of art handling, installation techniques, and condition reporting, often supported by a degree in art, museum studies, or related experience. Familiarity with tools such as power drills, art storage systems, and inventory databases is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work collaboratively are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills ensure artworks are safely handled, installations are executed efficiently, and museum or gallery standards are consistently maintained.

What are some common challenges faced by an assistant preparator, and how can they be addressed?

Assistant Preparators often encounter challenges such as managing tight installation deadlines, handling delicate or valuable artworks, and adapting to last-minute changes in exhibition plans. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and clear communication with curators and conservators are essential for overcoming these hurdles. Proactively seeking guidance from senior preparators and participating in team meetings can help ensure smooth installations and foster a collaborative work environment.

What is the difference between Assistant Preparator vs Art Handler?

AspectAssistant PreparatorArt Handler
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require art handling certificationsHigh school diploma; specialized training often preferred
Work EnvironmentArt museums, galleries, conservation labsArt museums, galleries, storage facilities
Job DutiesAssisting with artwork preparation, packing, and installationHandling, installing, and transporting artworks

Both roles support art handling and installation but differ mainly in responsibilities. Assistant Preparators often assist with preparation and setup, while Art Handlers focus more on physical handling and transportation of artworks. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job fit within the art industry.

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Preparator jobs in Michigan?

For Assistant Preparator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Preparator jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Preparator jobs in Michigan are:

Assistant Preparator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Preparator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Assistant Preparator - Cranbrook Art Museum

Employment | Cranbrook

Bloomfield Hills, MI • On-site

Part-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Assistant Preparator - Cranbrook Art Museum

Cranbrook Art Museum is a leading venue for the presentation of twentieth- and twenty-first-century art, craft, architecture, and design. The Art Museum is located in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, a suburb of metropolitan Detroit, on the beautiful 319-acre historic landmark campus of the Cranbrook Educational Community. The Art Museum’s sister institution is Cranbrook Academy of Art, a renowned graduate school of art, architecture, craft, and design. While the collections of the Art Museum span the 20th and 21st centuries, the permanent collection focus is on the achievements of faculty and students of the Academy of Art and of artists in the Detroit metropolitan area. The Art Museum frequently presents public art programs in the city of Detroit, working with a range of creative collaborators, diverse artists and curators, and various community partners. Each year the Art Museum also presents artworks created by the graduating class of Cranbrook Academy of Art. In 2011, the Art Museum completed a renovation of its original 1942 Art Museum and Art Library building designed by Eliel Saarinen and created a new Collections Wing, a purpose-built, state-of-the-art handling and storage facility for its collections, which allows for a curated and publicly accessible viewing of selections from nearly 7,500 works of art.

Cranbrook Art Museum is accepting applications for an Assistant Preparator. This position will assist the team responsible for the preparation of galleries, installation and deinstallation of objects for exhibition. This is a part-time position, working during installation periods, approximately 10 weeks each year between May and October. The Assistant Preparator must be able to work flexible hours.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Prepares galleries for exhibition, including wall and pedestal construction and painting.
  • Prepares objects for exhibition, including installing, deinstalling, matting, framing, mounting, and lighting.
  • Assists with the movement, transportation, packing and installation of objects in the museum.
  • Maintains attendance, punctuality, and performance standards set forth in Cranbrook’s employee handbook.

Requirements:

  • Excellent technical, construction and woodworking skills.
  • Knowledgeable in art handling techniques and in the care, preservation, and exhibition practices for various types of objects including bronze, ceramic and wooden sculptures, paintings, works on paper and textiles.
  • Interest in contemporary art.
  • Excellent communication skills required. Will regularly communicate with Preparator, as well as Registrar, other museum staff members and work study students.

For consideration, please submit a resume and cover letter.

Apply