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Lead Preparator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Field Museum

Mount Shop Preparator I-III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

This position may serve as a lead preparator, coordinate the work of up to six Preparators I and II, and oversee the operation of an assigned shop area. Duties and Responsibilities * Designs and ...

Field Museum

Mount Shop Preparator I-III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

This position may serve as a lead preparator, coordinate the work of up to six Preparators I and II, and oversee the operation of an assigned shop area. Duties and Responsibilities * Designs and ...

Field Museum

Mount Shop Preparator I-III

Chicago, IL

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

This position may serve as a lead preparator, coordinate the work of up to six Preparators I and II, and oversee the operation of an assigned shop area. Duties and Responsibilities * Designs and ...

Unf

Assistant Curator

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$42K/yr

... the Registrar and Preparator. * Contribute to exhibition interpretation, layouts, and graphic ... Lead exhibition-related public programs and tours for diverse audiences. * Cultivate relationships ...

Innio

Commissioning Operations Specialist

TX · Remote

Work closely with the designated work preparator to create, track, and close MyPlant events ... Organize and lead daily commissioning meetings (startofwork and endofwork), acting as meeting owner ...

INNIO

Commissioning Operations Specialist

TX · Remote

Work closely with the designated work preparator to create, track, and close MyPlant events ... Organize and lead daily commissioning meetings (startofwork and endofwork), acting as meeting owner ...

INNIO

Commissioning Operations Specialist

Work closely with the designated work preparator to create, track, and close MyPlant events ... Organize and lead daily commissioning meetings (startofwork and endofwork), acting as meeting owner ...

All JobsLead Preparator Jobs

Lead Preparator information

See salary details

$11

$25

$44

How much do lead preparator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead preparator in the United States is $25.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead preparator?

Lead Preparators are professionals in museums, galleries, or exhibition spaces responsible for overseeing the installation, handling, and care of artworks and artifacts. They lead a team of preparators, coordinate logistics, ensure proper packing and transportation, and maintain safety standards during exhibition setup and takedown. Lead Preparators often collaborate with curators, registrars, and conservators to ensure that objects are displayed securely and according to best practices. Their expertise is crucial to preserving the integrity of collections and creating engaging visitor experiences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead preparator?

To thrive as a Lead 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 lifts, hand tools, crate construction, and collection management systems is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to lead and communicate effectively with teams are crucial soft skills. These abilities ensure the safe, efficient, and professional preparation and display of artworks, supporting both preservation and visitor experience.

What are some common challenges lead preparators face when coordinating art installation projects?

Lead Preparators often manage complex installation schedules, ensuring artwork is safely handled and displayed according to curatorial standards. Coordinating between curators, conservators, and technical staff can present communication challenges, especially when handling delicate or large-scale pieces. They must also adapt quickly to changing timelines or unexpected logistical issues, all while maintaining strict attention to detail and upholding museum or gallery safety protocols. These challenges require strong problem-solving skills and effective teamwork.

What is the difference between Lead Preparator vs Art Preparator?

AspectLead PreparatorArt Preparator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; specialized trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; specialized training
Work EnvironmentMuseums, galleries, art institutionsMuseums, galleries, art institutions
ResponsibilitiesOversees prep team, manages projects, quality controlPrepares artworks, handles packing, cleaning, and installation
Common UsageLeadership role in art handling teamsHands-on art handling and preparation

The main difference between a Lead Preparator and an Art Preparator lies in their responsibilities. The Lead Preparator typically oversees the prep team, manages projects, and ensures quality control, while the Art Preparator focuses on the hands-on preparation, packing, and installation of artworks. Both roles require similar credentials and work in similar environments, but the Lead Preparator has a leadership and supervisory role within the art handling team.

More about Lead Preparator jobs

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

The top searched job categories for Lead Preparator jobs are:

Lead Preparator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Preparator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,817 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Mount Shop Preparator I-III

Chicago, IL • On-site

Field Museum
Museums and Historical Sites • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Field Museumexternal

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Position: Mount Shop Preparator I-III
FLSA Status: Non-exempt
Department: Exhibitions
Our Mission: Since the 1893 World Columbian Exposition, our organization has aimed to connect people to the natural environment and human history.
Join our team and enjoy a benefits package that truly supports your well-being and lifestyle:
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Including medical, dental, vision plans, and even pet insurance.
  • Financial Security: Life and disability benefits plus a 403(b) savings plan to help you plan for the future.
  • Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off, paid sick leave, and paid holidays to ensure you have time to recharge and spend with loved ones.
  • Exclusive Perks: Enjoy great employee discounts and complimentary general admission to participating cultural institutions.

We're dedicated to enhancing your life both at work and beyond!
Under occasional supervision and as part of a team, the Preparator III (Mountmaker) is responsible for performing highly skilled mountmaking and production work for assigned projects or components of a project. This position may serve as a lead preparator, coordinate the work of up to six Preparators I and II, and oversee the operation of an assigned shop area.
Duties and Responsibilities
  1. Designs and develops object mounts based on exhibit case layouts, object requirements, and approved mount standards; utilizes established mount design references, templates, and approved mount types maintained within departmental resource files and documentation systems.
  2. Fabricates safe, stable structural support mounts for a variety of artifacts and specimens using materials such as metal, acrylic, fabric, and foam.
  3. Performs highly skilled mount-related tasks.
  4. Assists with handling and transporting artifacts within the Museum, maintains the safe storage of objects in the Mount Shop, and tracks incoming/outgoing objects.
  5. May serve as a project lead, coordinating the work of assigned staff, maintaining tools, equipment, and supplies, and coordinating with other departments, contractors, and suppliers.
  6. Coordinates with Conservation, Registration, and Collection Managers as needed to support project requirements
  7. May photograph and measure objects , upload documentation to EMu, and collect and prepare materials for Oddy testing and data entry into FileMaker.
  8. May train staff in mount-making methods.
  9. May assume overall responsibility for the oversight and operation of a major shop area (welding equipment, safety, vault climate).
  10. May assign and coordinate tasks to a team of up to six preparators for a period of time (6 months or fewer).
  11. May assist with determining specific material needs, quantities, construction sequences, finishes, and installation procedures and initiate purchase orders.
  12. May review shop drawings, materials, and mount designs for projects.
  13. Assist with the organization and content of traveling exhibits, records, packing instructions, assembly information, inventories, and related tasks.

Qualifications
  1. High School diploma or equivalent required; some college or formal training in a related area is preferred.
  2. Must have a demonstrated high level of proficiency with shop tools, equipment, and mount making processes and techniques. Must have a broad knowledge of materials and hardware.
  3. Minimum of two or three years of experience in mountmaking, welding, brazing, archival processes, rigging, specialized fabrication techniques, along with a broad understanding of the departmental production activities.
  4. Knowledge of administrative and supervisory skills is necessary.
  5. Experience working collaboratively as part of a project or fabrication team is required. Museum experience is strongly preferred.
  6. This position requires the completion/passing of pulmonary function exam and respirator test (post-employment offer, prior to start date).

Supervision Received:
Receives general supervision by TBD and Production Director.
Supervision Exercised:
The position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.
Work Hours and Shift:
35 hours per week. Hours: 8:30am - 4:30pm with occasional before, after or weekend hours required. Typically, scheduled in advance.
Hybrid Eligibility:
Not eligible
Location:
1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Dr. Chicago, IL 60605
Union Representation:
This position is represented by Field Museum Workers� United, AFSCME Council 31, AFL-CIO.
Other working conditions: Must be able to lift up to 50lbs.
Pay Range: 19.10-31.00/hourly. This posting covers the Mount Shop Preparator I-III. Final placement and starting hourly rate will be determined based on the selected candidate's relevant experience, education, and skill level.
PLEASE READ: *When you apply for multiple positions, please make sure to delete your previous resume and cover letter and upload the latest version of your resume and cover letter that is relevant to the job you are applying for, every time you apply. This will help our hiring managers access the correct documents. Please note that removing the resume and cover letter will not delete any previously submitted resumes and cover letters.
The Field Museum is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination, embracing diversity, and fostering mutual respect. We value the unique perspectives each team member brings, which empowers our ability to innovate and overcome challenges.
At the Field Museum, we are dedicated to making our career website and recruitment process accessible to everyone. If you encounter any difficulty when using or accessing our online application, or if you need a reasonable accommodation for completing your application, participating in interviews, or any other part of the selection process, please reach out to us at recruitment@fieldmuseum.org .

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