Hourly Museum Preparator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Art Preparator I

The Chrysler Museum of Art, located at 1 Memorial Place in Norfolk, VA, is renowned for its extensive collection of over 30,000 objects displayed across 50 galleries. The Museum offers a diverse range of art, from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces. A standout feature is its Glass Studio, the only one of its kind in the Mid-Atlantic, where visitors can watch live glassblowing demonstrations and participate in hands-on classes. The Museum's commitment to accessibility is highlighted by its free admission policy, making it a welcoming destination for both art enthusiasts and families.

Department:

52 - Registration

FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt/Hourly

Position Type:

Full-time

Supervisor duties:

None

Reports to:

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 storage, conduct condition assessments, and support conservation efforts. They ensure proper mounting, lighting, and environmental controls while maintaining museum standards for preservation and security.

Key Performance Indicators (KPI):

Job Knowledge, Respect, Openness, Growth, Dynamism, Communication, Collaboration, Efficiency and Precision 

Essential Functions:

Technical & Operational Performance

• Exhibition Installation Accuracy – Ensuring artworks are mounted, lit, and displayed correctly according to curatorial and conservation guidelines. Prepares artwork for display (e.g. matting, framing, mounting, glazing, installation of hardware.) Installs and de-installs temporary and permanent exhibitions.
• Artwork Handling & Transport Efficiency – Safely packing, moving, and storing artworks with minimal risk of damage or loss. Participates in all phases of art movement within the museum for works in the collection, loans, and incoming and outgoing exhibitions.
• Assists with the preparation of labels and text panels.
• Maintains exhibition and gallery lighting.
• Provides technical support for all exhibitions (e.g. setting up and managing audio-visual equipment, and preparation of temporary walls and exhibition furniture, etc.)
• Storage & Inventory Management – Maintaining organized, secure, and accessible storage spaces for artworks and exhibition materials.

Quality & Safety Standards

• Condition Reporting & Documentation – Review and interpret reports to monitor artwork status and preservation requirements. Ensure proper handling based on documented information and maintain awareness of collection care protocols. Recognize potential condition issues and notify Registrars or conservators as needed, ensuring proper handling and care of artworks.
• Compliance with Museum Standards & Protocols – Adhering to conservation-approved handling methods, safety regulations, and environmental controls.
• Timely Execution of Projects – Completing installations, deinstallations, and preparation tasks within designated deadlines.
• Prepares artwork for travel (e.g. lining crates, soft packing, etc.). Provides transport as necessary.
• Assists with care of the museum’s collection and collection storage areas.

Collaboration & Communication

• Effective Coordination with Departments – Working closely with Curatorial, Registration, Conservation, and Exhibition teams to execute projects seamlessly.
• Problem-Solving & Adaptability – Addressing unforeseen installation challenges and adjusting displays as needed.
• Teamwork & Contribution – Supporting colleagues and fostering a cooperative, efficient work environment.
• Serves as an ambassador for the Museum locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally. 
• Performs other duties as assigned or required.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• High School or equivalent education.
• Must have at least 1 year of experience in art handling and/or exhibitions installation.
• Must be meticulous and able to work as part of a team to accomplish challenging tasks.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• BA/BS; background in Museum studies, fine arts, art handling, or a related field is preferred.
• Prior Museum experience is strongly preferred.
• Carpentry experience.
• Audio Visual technology experience. 
• Matting and framing experience.

Working Conditions:

Position will be based in busy environments, be subject to frequent interruptions, and require interaction with the public.

Position requires the individual to be able to work with power tools of various types.

Physical Requirements:

Must be able to climb ladders and work at varying heights.

Must be able to lift and carry delicate and awkward items weighing up to 75 lbs. without assistance.

Requires intermittent standing, walking, sitting, squatting, stretching, and bending throughout the workday.

Must be able to see and hear or use prosthetics that will enable these senses to function adequately to ensure that the requirements of this position can be fully met.