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Preparator Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

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Preparator information

See Boston, MA salary details

$10

$21

$33

How much do preparator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for preparator in Boston, MA is $21.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.21 and $26.76 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 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 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 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.

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.

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Preparator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Preparator job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 34% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,106 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Temporary Exhibition Installer

Brandeis University

Waltham, MA • On-site

$27 - $30/hr

Temporary

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Description Under the supervision and direction of the Manager, Collections and Exhibitions, the Assistant Preparator provides support for all aspects of exhibition production including: installation, preparation of artwork, fine art packing and unpacking, general construction, wall preparation, gallery maintenance (lighting and cleaning), equipment/supply inventories or other duties as assigned. Hourly Payrate: $27-$30 Essential Responsibilities Professional art handling of works of art (2D, 3D, multimedia) including both collection and loan objects.

  • Knowledge of safe and museum standard installation practices for both special temporary exhibitions, gallery rotations or longer-term collections installation.
  • Experience with fine art packing, unpacking and movement of artwork within museum standards and under direction.
  • Installation of exhibition graphics, labels or other materials.

Basic Qualifications

  • Experience with art handling, installation methodology within museum industry standards.
  • Deadline-driven, responds creatively to situations, problem-solving, and ability to carry out instructions precisely and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Basic knowledge and familiarity with power / hand tools and hardware.

Physical Demands Must be able to lift up to 40lbs. Must be able to stand, walk, carry, stoop, kneel, twist, squat bend and reach overhead. Comfortable with heights, climbing ladders and mechanical lifts. Pay Range Disclosure The University's pay ranges represent a good faith estimate of what Brandeis reasonably expects to pay for a position at the time of posting. The pay offered to a selected candidate during hiring will be based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience and education/training, internal peer equity, and applicable legal requirements. Equal Opportunity Statement Brandeis University is an equal opportunity employer which does not discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, ancestry, religious creed, gender identity and expression, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, genetic information, disability, caste, military or veteran status or any other category protected by law (also known as membership in a "protected class").

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