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Museum Preparator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American

Part-Time Art Handler I

Campus, IL · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Art Handers/Installers report to and are under the supervision of the AU Museum's Preparator and work closely with and provide support and assistance to the Registrar. Essential Functions: * Prepare ...

MCA

Preparator Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.94 - $24.08/hr

We have an opening for a Preparator Assistant who will assist in all production aspects of ... At least 2 years of museum or gallery preparation experience. * Knowledge of and experience with ...

City of Mesa

Museum Exhibitions Coordinator

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$64K - $88K/yr

This classification may supervise the Museum Exhibits Preparator and/or the Museum Exhibits Technician classifications, as well as temporary agency personnel and volunteers. This class performs ...

The Huntington

Lead Preparator

San Marino, CA · On-site

About the Role The Lead Preparator is a senior member of The Huntington's Preparation team, under ... They are responsible for handling, packing, transporting and storing artworks according to museum ...

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$91.5K

How much do museum preparator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for museum preparator in the United States is $57,651.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $63,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Museum Preparator job?

A Museum Preparator is responsible for handling, installing, and maintaining museum exhibits and collections. They prepare artifacts and artworks for display by constructing mounts, arranging lighting, and ensuring proper environmental conditions. Preparators often collaborate with curators, conservators, and exhibition designers to create engaging and safe presentations. They also assist with packing, transportation, and storage of delicate objects to prevent damage. The role requires technical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of museum best practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Museum Preparator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Museum Preparator, you need experience in art handling, mount making, installation techniques, and object conservation, usually supported by a background in studio art, conservation, or museum studies. Skills with specialized tools, lifts, packing materials, and collections management databases like TMS are often required, and certifications in art handling or OSHA safety can be advantageous. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication foster effective teamwork and care of fragile objects. These skills are essential to ensure artwork is safely displayed, preserved, and transported while complying with museum standards and collaborating effectively across departments.

What are some of the typical day-to-day responsibilities for a Museum Preparator?

As a Museum Preparator, your daily responsibilities often include handling and installing artwork or artifacts, designing and fabricating display mounts, and ensuring the safe packing and transport of objects. You may assist with exhibition setup and takedown, coordinate with curators and conservators, and monitor environmental conditions in galleries and storage spaces. The role regularly requires teamwork with exhibition designers, registrars, and other museum staff to meet project deadlines and uphold best practices. This hands-on work environment is ideal for individuals who enjoy both creative problem-solving and following precise safety protocols.

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Museum Preparator jobs near you
Assistant Preparator (Part-Time)

Assistant Preparator (Part-Time)

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Lincoln, NE • On-site

$20/hr

Part-time

Posted 18 hours ago

Job description

Position Information
Position Information
Working Title
Assistant Preparator (Part-Time)
Department
Sheldon Museum of Art-0855
Requisition Number
S_260364
Posting Open Date
05/12/2026
Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date)
05/28/2026
Posting Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Description of Work
Provide support to the lead preparator by assisting in all areas of storage, care, and exhibition of objects at the Sheldon Museum of Art. Duties include working as a team to install, transport, unpack and repack artwork in a safe and professional manner, and prepare artwork and gallery spaces for exhibition. Construct and/or prepare display mounts and furniture for objects. Assist the lead preparator with exhibition design, layout, and the implementation of multi-media artworks. Work with the engagement and collections departments to pack, transport, and install Sheldon Statewide exhibitions to venues across the State of Nebraska.
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln seeks to attract and retain a high performing and collaborative workforce. UNL is committed to providing a work environment and culture that fosters personal and professional success where every person and every interaction matters. The University is proud to be one of Nebraska's preferred and largest employers where individuals are able to participate and contribute to their full potential.
As an EO/AA employer, the University of Nebraska considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation. See https://equity.unl.edu/notice-nondiscrimination/.
Minimum Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent plus one (1) year relevant coursework, or specialized training beyond high school and one (1) year professional art-handling and gallery installation experience required.
  • Basic woodworking, carpentry skills, and experience with power tools required.
  • Must be detail oriented and able to work carefully with and around artwork.
  • Must possess knowledge of or experience with word processing and basic computer software programs.
  • Some evening and weekend hours required.
  • Must be able to lift 75 pounds.
  • Must have a valid driver's license, meet University driver eligibility requirements and pass University van driving course.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Two (2) years of previous art handling and exhibition installation experience including matting and frame building preferred.
  • Knowledge of electrical and audio-visual technology is a plus.
  • Ability to work in a team environment as well as independently on assigned projects.

Pre-Placement Driving Record Review Required
Yes
Physical Required
Yes
Commercial Driver's License (CDL) required. Subject to DOT approved pre-employment & random testing for alcohol and controlled substances.
No
Criminal History Background Check Required
Yes
Posted Salary
$20.00/hr minimum
How to Apply
Click on "Apply to this Job". You will then either create an application or edit your current application that is on file.
For questions or accommodations related to this position contact
Monica Babcock
mbabcock1@unl.edu
Job Category (old)
Office/Service
Job Type
Part-Time
Alternate Work Schedule (if other than 8-5)
Some evenings and weekends
Work Location (City, State)
Lincoln, NE
Position funded by grant or other form of temporary funding?
No
If Temporary, indicate end date
Planned Hire Date:
06/22/2026
Appointment End Date

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