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Lead Preparator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MCA

Lead Preparator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

We have an opening for a Lead Preparator to join the Collections and Exhibitions department at MCA Chicago. Reporting to the Senior Preparator, the Lead Preparator oversees the daily operation of ...

The Huntington

Lead Preparator

San Marino, CA · On-site

The Lead Preparator's primary responsibility is to prepare for and execute installations of Library, Art and Botanical exhibitions and outgoing loans, with a small team of preparators. They are ...

McNay Art Museum

Preparator

San Antonio, TX

$19.06/hr

Coordinates day-to-day installation priorities and workflow as assigned by the Lead Preparator and Curator of Exhibitions. * Provides guidance to contractors during installation and de-installation ...

INNIO

Commissioning Coordinator

Houston, TX · On-site

Work closely with the designated work preparator to create, track, and close MyPlant events ... Organize and lead daily commissioning meetings (start-of-work and end-of-work), acting as meeting ...

INNIO

Commissioning Coordinator

Houston, TX · On-site

Work closely with the designated work preparator to create, track, and close MyPlant events ... Organize and lead daily commissioning meetings (start-of-work and end-of-work), acting as meeting ...

Innio

Commissioning Coordinator

Houston, TX

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 Coordinator

Houston, TX

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 Coordinator

Houston, TX

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 ...

Unf

Assistant Curator

Jacksonville, FL

$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 ...

All JobsLead Preparator Jobs

Lead Preparator information

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$11

$25

$44

How much do lead preparator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead Preparator, and why are they important?

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.

What are Lead Preparators?

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.
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Lead Preparator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Preparator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 95% Full Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $52,817 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Lead Preparator

MCA

Chicago, IL • On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

We have an opening for a Lead Preparator to join the Collections and Exhibitions department at MCA Chicago. Reporting to the Senior Preparator, the Lead Preparator oversees the daily operation of preparator assistant staff and ensures the successful installations of assigned exhibitions through the supervision of preparator teams and enforcement of best practices in collections care and the achievement of departmental and institutional timelines and scheduling goals. To be successful in this role, you will:

  • Oversee part-time Preparator Assistant team, managing daily schedules and team assignments at storage locations and in galleries.
  • Assist Senior Preparator in coordinating schedules for installations and de-installation, proactively identify schedule conflicts where additional staffing may be required.
  • Collaborate with artist(s) featured in mid-sized gallery exhibitions to install their works as required within budget and on time.
  • Manage exhibition budgets and participate in the billing and accounting duties required for assigned exhibitions.
  • Oversee exhibition fabrication needs for assigned exhibitions.
  • Lead and develop team members by fostering an inclusive, psychologically safe environment that encourages open, two-way feedback and continuous growth. Serve as a positive cultural ambassador across the museum, modeling behaviors that champion equity, collaboration, and respect.
  • Drive accountability and clarity of expectations while overseeing day-to-day operations, special projects, and performance against key metrics.
  • Actively engage in coaching and feedback to strengthen engagement, support professional development, and achieve organizational goals.
  • Locate, hire, schedule, and oversee contractors, fabricators, and other outside contractual production needs for assigned exhibitions.
  • Attend interdepartmental meetings related to exhibition planning as assigned. Act as meeting proxy for Senior Preparator as needed.
  • Serve as proxy for Senior Preparator as needed as gallery floor lead on all major exhibitions, managing teams for the duration of the installation and deinstallation.
  • Manage installation challenges working with Senior Preparator, Senior Exhibition Production Manager and Registrars to achieve solutions as needed.
  • In collaboration with the Senior Preparator and Registrars, develop plans for all exhibition maintenance.
  • Work with the Collections and Exhibitions department on maintaining best practices for art handling, storage, packing, and crating.
  • Assist in the oversight of maintenance and updates to the woodshop, collection storage, and the MCA warehouse.
  • Serve as international and domestic courier for MCA collection works and MCA exhibitions as assigned.
  • Other duties as assigned by the Senior Preparator or the Director of Collections and Exhibitions Management.


QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • 3-5 years of museum or other professional art handling experience.
  • Experience managing teams.
  • Proven ability to manage projects and budgets.
  • Knowledge of and experience with best practices in art handling, packing, transport, and installation of various types of artworks.
  • General fabrication and construction skills including woodshop and carpentry experience, working knowledge of gallery lighting, experience working with small mechanical and power tools, and familiarity with moving large/heavy objects and crates.
  • Experience operating fork/aerial lifts as aides to installation and art movement; have or be willing and able to obtain a lift operator certificate.
  • Mathematics and measuring skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to work with care and accuracy while performing job duties.
  • Ability to work independently, with a partner, or with a larger team, to complete tasks in a timely manner.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365.
  • Ability to safely lift 60 lbs.
  • General mobility throughout all museum properties.


BENEFITS OF WORKING AT THE MCA INCLUDE:

  • Individual and MCA-provided retirement savings plans.
  • Paid time off.
  • Pre-tax, reduced rate parking and Ventra/Metra benefits.
  • Free admission to MCA exhibitions for yourself and guests.
  • Free admission to many special and member events.
  • Reduced price tickets to MCA Stage performances.
  • Discounts on dining in Marisol and in our award-winning MCA Store.
  • Access to our onsite library.
  • Opportunities to attend curator-led staff tours.
  • Free or discounted admission to many other cultural institutions across the United States.

Full-time staff are also eligible for a robust benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance plus free life, AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance.


This is a full-time position; Monday through Friday 8am-4pm; with occasional additional hours as required by activity in department, including after 5pm, weekends, and courier travel. This position is eligible for hybrid work arrangement per the Remote Work Policy.
40 hours per week.