1

Head Preparator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Preparator works closely with other members of the curatorial staff to implement and maintain a high quality and ambitious exhibition schedule. The Preparator works closely with MOCA Museum ...

The Head of Exhibits works 40 hours a week, Monday through Friday. Representative Duties ... Graphics Designer, Exhibits Preparator, and Museum Facilities Specialist. * Oversees planning ...

The Head of Exhibits works 40 hours a week, Monday through Friday. Representative Duties ... Graphics Designer, Exhibits Preparator, and Museum Facilities Specialist. * Oversees planning ...

The Head of Exhibits works 40 hours a week, Monday through Friday. Representative Duties ... Graphics Designer, Exhibits Preparator, and Museum Facilities Specialist. * Oversees planning ...

The Head of Exhibits works 40 hours a week, Monday through Friday. Representative Duties ... Graphics Designer, Exhibits Preparator, and Museum Facilities Specialist. * Oversees planning ...

Head Preparator information

See salary details

$139.5K

$160K

$178K

How much do head preparator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for head preparator in the United States is $159,999.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $150,000.00 and $170,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Head Preparator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Head Preparator, you need expertise in art handling, installation, and conservation practices, typically supported by experience in museums or galleries and a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with tools such as art storage systems, rigging equipment, and condition reporting software is crucial. Strong organizational skills, leadership, and clear communication help in managing teams and coordinating with curators and artists. These skills ensure the safe handling, display, and preservation of artworks, maintaining the institution's standards and reputation.

What are some common challenges faced by a Head Preparator in a museum or gallery setting?

A Head Preparator often encounters challenges such as coordinating complex installations within tight timelines, managing a team with varying skillsets, and ensuring the safe handling and transportation of delicate artworks. They must also navigate last-minute changes to exhibition layouts and address logistical issues that can arise during setup. Strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and clear communication with curators, artists, and registrars are essential for overcoming these hurdles and delivering successful exhibitions.

What are Head Preparators?

Head Preparators are responsible for overseeing the preparation, installation, and maintenance of artwork and exhibitions in museums, galleries, or cultural institutions. They lead a team of preparators and work closely with curators, registrars, and conservators to ensure that all objects are handled safely and displayed according to professional standards. Their duties often include managing logistics, supervising installation crews, coordinating shipping and storage, and ensuring the security and preservation of artworks during transit and exhibition.
What cities are hiring for Head Preparator jobs? Cities with the most Head Preparator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Preparator jobs? The most popular types of Preparator jobs are:
What states have the most Head Preparator jobs? States with the most job openings for Head Preparator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Head Preparator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $159,999 per year, or $76.9 per hour.
Head Preparator

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


University Of North Florida rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

134th of 544 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Preparator

Reporting to the Senior Curator, the Preparator is primarily responsible for the proper design, installation, maintenance of exhibits, safe handling of ArtsUNF's Collections and loaned objects in accordance with standard best museum practices. The Preparator works closely with other members of the curatorial staff to implement and maintain a high quality and ambitious exhibition schedule. The Preparator works closely with MOCA Museum Operations, Facilities, University faculty and staff, and artists on matters related to execution of installations and collections management, in accordance with museum accreditation standards and art handling practices as outlined by the American Alliance of Museums.

Job Functions

  • Execute and/or manage construction of installations and exhibition displays.
  • Hire contract installation personnel and supervise all outside contractors while they are onsite, according to Museum and University guidelines.
  • Work with the Registrar on receipt, packing, art-handling, and crating art for museum exhibitions and collections.
  • Work with the Curator to develop and enforce departmental procedures relating to proper art handling methods, receipt, packing, inventory, etc.
  • Work with the Registrar to maintain proper climatic conditions required for the safety of artwork.
  • Arrange technical aspects of AV setups of exhibitions including production, equipment and software procurement, planning, installation and maintenance.
  • Coordinate with the Curator and Facilities staff the routine maintenance of all exhibitions in all galleries, including: cleaning, light replacement, paint touch-up, etc.
  • Maintain an up-to-date accurate inventory of all curatorial supplies (including lighting, paint, tools and equipment, audio visual, etc.)
  • Oversee the maintenance, repair, and organization of tools and equipment; estimates costs, purchases materials, equipment and supplies; according to curatorial budget.
  • Ensures adherence to safe workplace practices and procedures in the handling of art and in all preparation work and workshop spaces.
  • Maintain a clean and organized art storage facility.
  • Work with the Curator in the development of an annual departmental budget.
  • Research and propose facility upgrades. Performs other duties as required.
  • Monitors and provides update recommendations to the museum emergency management plan as it relates to collection.

Marginal Functions

During a declared emergency, this position may be required to perform specific job-related duties at a designated off-site location or place of residence

Supervision Exercised

Supervise OPS installation staff, student assistants and interns.

Supervision Received:

General supervision. The incumbent develops procedures for performing a variety of complex duties within established guidelines; has considerable freedom while the work is in process and receives instructions on new assignments.

Required Qualifications

Master's or Bachelor's degree and 2+ years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience pursuant to Fla. Stat. 112.219.

Statement(s) of Understanding

This position requires a background check. In conjunction with the University's policy, this position may also require a credit check.

The holder of this position is designated as a "Responsible Employee" pursuant to their role under Title IX. Therefore, the incumbent must promptly report allegations of sexual misconduct, sexual violence, and child sexual abuse by or against any student, employee, contractor, or visitor to the University's Title IX Administrator or any divisional Title IX Coordinator

Equal Opportunity

The University of North Florida (UNF) is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all who interact in our community. In building this environment, we strive to attract students, faculty and staff from a variety of cultures, backgrounds and life experiences. The University of North Florida does not commit or permit discrimination or harassment on the basis of genetic information, race, color, religion, age, sex, disability, marital status, national origin, or veteran status in any educational, employment, social, recreational program or activity that it offers. In addition, UNF will not commit or permit retaliation against an individual who reports discrimination or harassment or an individual who cooperates in an investigation of an alleged violation of university regulation.

Carnegie

UNF is a Carnegie Community Engaged Institution. This designation celebrates the University's collaboration with community partners from the local to the global level. It reflects UNF's mission to contribute to the public good and prepare educated, engaged citizens.


What University Of North Florida employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom