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Exhibition Preparator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Preparator

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Collections & Exhibitions REPORTS TO: Chief Preparator FLSA STATUS: Non-exempt DATE PREPARED: 04/10/2023 DATE POSTED: Please apply on - GENERAL SUMMARY: Reporting to the Chief Preparator, the ...

Preparator

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$17.51/hr

The Preparator will work closely with the Exhibitions Director to produce high-quality exhibitions. The Preparator assists in planning, preparation, security, installation, and de-installation of ...

Preparator

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$17.51/hr

The Preparator will work closely with the Exhibitions Director to produce high-quality exhibitions. The Preparator assists in planning, preparation, security, installation, and de-installation of ...

Preparator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$22.50 - $24/hr

Preparator Department: Collection Support Reports To: Chief Preparator FLSA Status: Non-Exempt ... Prepare galleries for exhibition installations including locating, moving, and storing gallery ...

$28/hr

The Behnke Family Gallery Preparator Coordinator position is a 9-month 20-hour weekly member of ... Exhibition Installation: Packing and unpacking crates and storing them for future use-installing ...

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Exhibition Preparator information

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$9

$19

$33

How much do exhibition preparator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for exhibition preparator in the United States is $19.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an exhibition preparator?

Exhibition Preparators are skilled professionals responsible for the physical installation and deinstallation of artworks and exhibits in museums, galleries, and cultural institutions. They handle tasks such as mounting, framing, lighting, and safely transporting art pieces to ensure they are displayed according to the curator's vision and conservation standards. Preparators also work closely with curators, conservators, and artists to create safe, visually appealing, and accessible exhibitions for the public.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exhibition preparator?

To thrive as an Exhibition Preparator, you need expertise in art handling, installation techniques, and a solid understanding of museum standards, often supported by experience in galleries or museums and relevant training. Familiarity with tools such as drills, lifts, and art transportation systems, as well as knowledge of environmental controls, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills for coordinating with curators and ensuring artwork safety. These skills are essential to protect valuable collections and create engaging, professional presentations for public display.

What are some typical challenges exhibition preparators face when installing new exhibits, and how can they be addressed?

Exhibition Preparators often encounter challenges such as working with delicate or irregularly shaped artworks, tight installation timelines, and coordinating with curators, artists, and other staff to ensure the exhibit vision is realized. Addressing these challenges requires strong communication skills, meticulous attention to detail, and flexibility to adapt to last-minute changes. Familiarity with proper handling techniques and collaborative planning meetings can help ensure installations go smoothly and artworks remain safe.

What is the difference between Exhibition Preparator vs Museum Technician?

AspectExhibition PreparatorMuseum Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical or vocational training often preferred
Work EnvironmentArt galleries, museums, trade shows, exhibition spacesMuseums, galleries, cultural institutions
Job FocusPreparing, installing, and dismantling exhibits and displaysMaintaining, repairing, and installing museum collections and exhibits
Industry UsageCommonly employed in art, trade, and cultural exhibitionsPrimarily in museums and cultural institutions

The main difference between an Exhibition Preparator and a Museum Technician lies in their focus. Exhibition Preparators primarily handle the setup and dismantling of exhibits, while Museum Technicians focus more on maintaining and repairing collections. Both roles require technical skills and work in similar environments, but their specific responsibilities differ based on the setting and purpose of their work.

More about Exhibition Preparator jobs

What states have the most Exhibition Preparator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Exhibition Preparator jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Exhibition Preparator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Exhibition Preparator jobs are:

Infographic showing various Exhibition Preparator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 62% Full Time, 35% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,767 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

PROGRAM SPECIALIST (EXHIBITION PREPARATOR) (AT-WILL)

Torrance, CA


City of Torrance
Public Administration • 1 - 5K employees

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

626th of 853 rated public administrative organizations

Good employer

Paid breaks

Respectful managers


$20.87 - $22.99/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

DESCRIPTION WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE APPLICANTS TO READ THE JOB ANNOUNCEMENT IN ITS ENTIRETY BEFORE SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION FOR THIS POSITION. ____________________________________________________________ The City of Torrance is accepting applications for a Program Specialist (Exhibition Preparator) to join the Cultural Services Division of the Community Services Department. The Department The Community Services Department is committed to providing quality services, activities, programs and facilities for all those who live, learn, work and play in the City of Torrance.

The Community Services Department offers Torrance residents the unique opportunity to help achieve a sense of purpose, identity, self-worth and improved self-esteem within the specialized areas of Cultural Arts, Library, Parks and Recreation. The Division The mission of the Cultural Services Division is to strengthen the City of Torrance as a unique center for cultural programs, the arts and arts education through developing the Torrance Cultural Arts Center as a unified campus for learning and excellence; providing classes, programs, and events that enrich the community through arts training and instruction for all levels of learning; creating new arts experiences and attracting new audiences; serving the unique needs of artists, connecting their work to the public and developing unique artistic resources of and for this community. The Torrance Art Museum (TAM) is the premier exhibition space located in the South Bay community of Torrance whose programming is primarily focused on the temporary display of contemporary art.

The Position The Program Specialist (Exhibition Preparator) prepares gallery walls for installation, including patching, light painting and cleaning; advises curators and artists on practical aspects of the install of artworks; installs and de-install artworks as indicated by curator(s) and artists; handles art objects and equipment in a safe and professional manner; packs and unpacks artworks per standards in the field; documents and records condition of artworks on delivery/collection and return; keeps supplies, tools and equipment organized; assists shipping companies to ensure art works arrive and depart safely and on time; and performs related work as required. For more information about the duties of the position, click here. Hours: This is a recurrent, part-time, non-civil service, as needed position.

Hours are flexible but concentrated around exhibition installation and deinstallation. This position may be expected to work some evenings and weekends. Employees are not to exceed 980 hours per fiscal year.

QUALIFICATION GUIDELINES Education and Experience Any combination of education and experience that would have provided the required knowledge and skills is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and skills would be: Graduation from High School or equivalent and one year of recent part-time work experience directly related to recreation or community programs and services. Some positions may require specific experience in a field such as: fine or performing arts, sports, preschool, therapeutic recreation, senior citizens, parks or science programs.

An Associate's degree in a related field is desirable. License and/or Certificates Negative tuberculin test. A valid California Class C Driver's License.

Ideal Candidate In addition to the minimum qualifications, the ideal candidate will possess: Knowledge of Principals, techniques, and practices of art handling used in gallery/museum exhibitions; Proper handling, shipping and transport of art objects, construction techniques, common building supply materials, hanging and installing artwork, painting, and setting lights. Ability to Regularly lift up to 35 pounds and occasionally over 75 pounds; Have physical stamina to climb ladders and be on your feet; Use common hand and power tools; Use scaffolding and a scissor lift; Work independently and within time constraints and deadlines; Work occasional evenings and weekends; Read, write and comprehend instructions in English; Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with all persons contacted in the course of work including fellow employees and other City representatives, curators, artists, volunteers and outside vendors; Drive a passenger van and truck. HOW TO APPLY & EXAM PROCESS Interested applicants must submit an online application available at www.TorranceCA.Gov/Jobs

Application submissions will be accepted on a continuous basis until the position is filled. Interviews will take place on an as needed basis. Only those candidates whose experience best meet the needs of the City and the Department will be invited to participate in a panel interview.

Only those candidates who best meet the City and Department's needs will be invited to participate in the examination process, which will consist of the following components: Oral Interview: Weighted 100% SPECIAL NOTES Visit www.TorranceCA.Gov to find out more information about the City of Torrance. Applicants with disabilities who require special testing arrangements must contact Human Resources. If you have a disability for which you require an accommodation, please contact us at (310) 618-2915 no later than five (5) business days before the test date

For further information, click here. As a condition of employment, candidates must pass a background check and a pre-employment medical examination. The provisions of this announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract and any provisions contained in this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice.

City of Torrance Inclusion Statement The City of Torrance is a welcoming and culturally-rich community. As a pillar of public service, we strive to be an employer of choice by attracting and retaining a talented workforce where people of diverse backgrounds, cultures, religions, and lifestyles are valued. Our mission is to create an inclusive environment where our staff are empowered to perform at their highest level and contribute towards making a positive impact.

The City is an equal opportunity employer and works towards building collaborative teams from all walks of life without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state and/or local law. Come join us to help cultivate a workplace that welcomes and celebrates the diversity of our employees!



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