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Preparator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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$9

$19

$30

How much do preparator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for preparator in California is $19.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.83 and $24.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a preparator?

A Preparator is a professional who works in museums, galleries, or cultural institutions to handle, install, and care for artworks or exhibits. Their responsibilities include preparing artworks for display, ensuring their safe transport and storage, and sometimes assisting with exhibit design and lighting. Preparators use specialized tools and techniques to mount, frame, and install pieces according to conservation and curatorial standards. They play a critical role in making sure that exhibitions are presented safely and aesthetically to the public.

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

To thrive as a Preparator, you need a thorough understanding of art handling, exhibition installation, and object conservation, often supported by experience in museums or galleries and sometimes a degree in art or museum studies. Familiarity with tools such as power drills, lifts, and climate control systems, as well as adherence to safety protocols, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong teamwork skills help Preparators excel in managing delicate artwork and meeting tight deadlines. These abilities are crucial to ensuring the safe, efficient, and visually compelling display of collections.

What does a preparator do?

As a preparator, you help with the installation and de-installation of art displays in a museum. In this role, you may provide input on curation, help manage each collection, and determine the best way to display art within the facility. In most cases, this job is considerably more complex than determining where to hang art on the walls. Many museums have complex pieces that are not easy to display, and further, each exhibit may require the addition or removal of walls and other structures without disturbing other exhibits more than necessary. Preparators provide a variety of services, ranging from artistic structure design to construction project management, so flexibility is an essential part of this job.

What is the difference between Preparator vs Art Preparator?

AspectPreparatorArt Preparator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training in art handlingHigh school diploma; specialized training in art handling and conservation
Work EnvironmentMuseums, galleries, auction housesMuseums, galleries, private collections
Job ResponsibilitiesPreparing artworks for display, packing, and transportationPreparing artworks for exhibitions, conservation, and detailed handling

The main difference between a Preparator and an Art Preparator lies in their specialization and level of expertise. Art Preparator roles often require more specialized training in art conservation and handling, focusing on delicate and valuable artworks. Both roles work in similar environments, but Art Preparators typically handle more complex tasks related to conservation and detailed preparation.

What are some common challenges preparators face when handling and installing artwork, and how are these typically addressed?

Preparators often encounter challenges such as safely transporting delicate pieces, adapting to unique installation environments, and meeting tight exhibition deadlines. To address these, they use specialized tools and materials for packing and handling, collaborate closely with curators and conservators to understand each artwork's requirements, and follow strict safety protocols. Teamwork and clear communication are essential to overcome logistical hurdles and ensure each piece is displayed securely and attractively.
More about Preparator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Preparator jobs in California? The most popular types of Preparator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Preparator jobs in California? For Preparator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Preparator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Preparator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Preparator jobs? Cities in California with the most Preparator job openings:
Preparator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Preparator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Part Time, and 33% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,260 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Preparator I (As Needed)

Asian Art Museum

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$31.19/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

THE OPPORTUNITY
Are you ready to be part of something inspiring? We're actively hiring several passionate and detail-oriented Preparator I (On-Call/As Needed) candidates to join our dynamic exhibitions team! In this hands-on role, you'll dive into a variety of semi-skilled and skilled tasks- from preparing and fabricating exhibit components to installing and taking down stunning displays and furniture. You'll work closely alongside our expert full-time staff whenever handling priceless works of art, ensuring every piece is showcased with care and precision. If you're enthusiastic about art, craftsmanship, and behind-the-scenes magic, we'd love to hear from you!
The Asian Art Museum of San Francisco is the world's leading museum dedicated to connecting global audiences with Asian and Asian American art and culture. With a collection of 20,000 objects spanning over 6,000 years - from ancient sculpture to contemporary installations - the museum offers a powerful lens into the depth and diversity of Asian cultures. A vibrant center for public engagement, the museum is a place where history and the present meet to inspire a more connected future. The museum's mission is to celebrate, preserve, and promote Asian and Asian American art and cultures for local and global audiences. It serves as a dynamic forum for exchanging ideas, inviting collaboration, and fueling imagination to deepen understanding and empathy among people of all backgrounds.
This is an exceptional opportunity to join an organization that values creativity, teamwork, collaboration, and inclusion and where you will be surrounded by a diverse, talented, and enthusiastic group of colleagues.
The nature of the work involves heavy lifting, manual dexterity, and the ability to assist in the handling of delicate, valuable, and irreplaceable art objects with extreme care.
The Preparator I (as needed/on-call) provides assistance to the Preparation department during periods of peak workload or on special projects. The Preparator I (as needed/on-call) must be open to work on temporary assignments varying in the number of hours and days.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Assists in the preparation, hanging, installation and deinstallation of art objects utilizing proper handling and security techniques.
  • Assists in the loading and unloading of art objects.
  • Assists with carpentry, finish work, packing/crating, lighting, A/V and mount making as required.
  • Paints and/or constructs walls, platforms, pedestals, and other exhibition fixtures.
  • Performs various skilled and semi-skilled tasks including working with power tools, adhesives, and metals.
  • Participates in general shop operations including cleaning, and organization of shop spaces.

OTHER FUNCTIONS
  • Performs other related duties as assigned

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Two (2) years of experience in installation of exhibit displays including the installation of three-dimensional objects in conjunction with wire object mounts, or a relevant combination of education, training, and experience.
  • Knowledge and skill in the use and care of standard hand and power tools; practices and methods of exhibit installation; safe work practices related to the installation of art.
  • Ability to problem solve and work well under pressure with conflicting demands.
  • Ability to lift and move heavy objects up to 75 lbs. and at heights up to 6 feet.
  • Extremely flexible, reliable, and dependable; integrity and sense of humor

WORKING CONDITIONS
Preparators' Shop. Physical agility, good vision, and manual dexterity are required to fabricate mounts, move art, and operate tools/equipment. Also involves medium to heavy work requiring lifting, carrying, and moving materials, tools, and equipment, and finished exhibit and display fixtures and furniture. May involve exposure to chemicals, fumes, heat, dust, and toxins. Required to wear safety glasses and mask when necessary for health and safety.
This position is represented by Local 1021, Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and new hires start at step 1 of the wage range: $31.1975/ hour. This is an as needed/on-call position with the museum.
OUR DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION COMMITMENTS
At the Asian Art Museum, we are dedicated to ideating, building, and holding ourselves accountable for Diversity, Equity, Accessibility & Inclusion in everything we do. We strive to foster a culture of respect, belonging and inclusivity for all employees.
Our mission is to celebrate, preserve, and promote Asian and Asian American art and cultures for local and global audiences. We provide a dynamic forum for exchanging ideas, inviting collaboration, and fueling imagination to deepen understanding and empathy among people of all backgrounds.
Diversity of thought and experience is essential to our mission, and we are committed to recruiting, hiring, and retaining a diverse workforce. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply.
WHAT'S NEXT?
Apply online at https://about.asianart.org/careers/. Ensuring a smooth and enjoyable candidate experience is critical for us. Application materials will be screened in relation to the criteria described. Candidates deemed to be the most highly qualified will be invited to participate in the interview process. Our interview process tends to take about 4 weeks to complete but may fluctuate depending on the role. Appointment is subject to completion of a thorough background check process.
The Asian Art Museum is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, reproductive health decisions, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, genetic information, political views or activity, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories (arrest and criminal histories) consistent with applicable federal, state, and local law.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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