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Chief Preparator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Woodruff Arts Center

Preparator

Atlanta, GA · On-site

Assistant Director & Chief Preparator FLSA: United States of America (Non-Exempt) Employment Status : Regular/Full time POSITION SUMMARY: High Museum preparators are responsible for the overall safe ...

Woodruff Arts Center

Assistant Director & Chief Preparator FLSA: United States of America (Non-Exempt) Employment Status : Regular/Full time POSITION SUMMARY: High Museum preparators are responsible for the overall safe ...

Newfields

Preparator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$22.50 - $24/hr

Chief Preparator FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Hourly: $22.50 - $24 / hour Overview The Preparator role is responsible for the preparation, installation and maintenance of galleries and exhibition spaces ...

Chrysler Museum Of Art

Art Preparator I

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$21 - $24.04/hr

Chief Registrar Date: May 2025 Primary Purpose: Art Preparator I will collaborate with Registration, Exhibitions, and Curatorial teams to install exhibitions, handle and transport artwork, manage ...

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Chief Preparator information

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$33K

$124.4K

$200.5K

How much do chief preparator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief preparator in the United States is $124,409.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,000.00 and $146,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by a Chief Preparator in a museum or gallery setting?

Chief Preparators frequently encounter challenges such as managing complex installation schedules, addressing the unique handling needs of diverse artworks, and ensuring all safety protocols are strictly followed. They must also collaborate closely with curators, registrars, artists, and contractors to coordinate logistics and solve any unforeseen problems during exhibitions. Balancing tight timelines with the high standards required for art preservation demands adaptability and resourcefulness. Successfully navigating these challenges is crucial for delivering seamless installations and maintaining the integrity of valuable collections.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Chief Preparator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chief Preparator, you need expertise in art handling, exhibition installation, and collection management, typically supported by experience in museums or galleries and a relevant degree in art, museum studies, or a similar field. Familiarity with tools such as condition reporting software, inventory management systems, and conservation equipment is common and sometimes required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for leading teams and coordinating logistics. These abilities ensure the safe handling and presentation of artwork, efficient project execution, and clear collaboration across departments.

What does a Chief Preparator do?

A Chief Preparator is responsible for the planning, handling, installation, and maintenance of artworks and exhibits in a museum or gallery. They oversee a team of preparators, manage exhibition logistics, and ensure the safe transport and display of artworks. Their role requires expertise in art handling, conservation techniques, and collaboration with curators, conservators, and designers to execute exhibitions professionally.

More about Chief Preparator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Chief Preparator jobs? The most popular types of Chief Preparator jobs are:
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Chief Preparator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Preparator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $124,409 per year, or $59.8 per hour.
Preparator

Preparator

The Woodruff Arts Center

Atlanta, GA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Woodruff Arts Center employees play an integral role in creating and supporting great art and education initiatives at the nation's third largest arts center. Comprised of three Art Partners-Alliance Theatre, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and High Museum of Art-there's a role for everyone at The Woodruff.
Reports to:
Assistant Director & Chief Preparator
FLSA:
United States of America (Non-Exempt)
Employment Status:
Regular/Full time
POSITION SUMMARY:
High Museum preparators are responsible for the overall safe and efficient internal movement, housing, and installation of collections and loan objects as well as maintaining professional museum standards of care and maintenance of permanent collections and exhibition areas. Handling standards are those prescribed by the American Association of Museums.
All duties will be approached in a manner consistent with the High's commitment to growth, inclusivity, collaboration and connectivity.
WORK SCHEDULE:
  • Weekdays and some weekends

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:
  • Perform and assist with the unpacking/packing, logging, preparation, and installation/de-installation of artwork.
  • Assist with exhibition lighting and maintenance of gallery lighting.
  • Assist in framing/unframing and mounting of artworks.
  • Coordinate case schedule and planning for special exhibition requirements.
  • Complete local pick-ups and deliveries of works of art.
  • Conduct routine gallery checks and report changes in condition of installed artwork to Registrar's office.
  • Maintain art storage areas, assist with collections inventory, and update location changes in database.
  • Collaborate professionally with vendors, visiting artists and museum guests on assigned projects and exhibition-related activities.
  • Assist Chief Preparator in organization, inventory, purchasing of materials and supplies.
  • Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Working knowledge of museum best practices and standards in handling artworks (during transportation, unpacking, condition reporting, and hanging) and in installing and de-installing artwork (hanging, rigging, tethering systems, anchor types and installation methods, security hardware types and installation, etc.).
  • Experience with lighting and audio-visual equipment preferred.
  • Proficiency with moving and lift equipment including but limited to staging dollies, a-frames, painting carts, push-around aerial lift platforms, and scissor lifts.
  • Excellent communication skills and the ability to listen to, comprehend, and execute tasks in a timely and effective way.
  • Able to work independently or in a team-setting with a high level of attention to detail, sense of urgency, and ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
  • Ability to calculate measurements and assess capacities.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and climb ladders and stools to reach objects.
  • Must have valid driver's license or the ability to obtain one. Prefer experience driving 16' box truck or larger.
  • Advance knowledge of Microsoft Office 365; TMS and Workday preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT:
  • The work environment and physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Some standing, walking, bending, frequent use of hands, stooping and light lifting (at least 50 pounds) is needed
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

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