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Preparator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Field Museum

Mount Shop Preparator I-III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

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 ...

Field Museum

Mount Shop Preparator I-III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

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 ...

Field Museum

Mount Shop Preparator I-III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

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 ...

Field Museum

Mount Shop Preparator I-III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

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 ...

Voortman Steel Machinery

Work Preparator

Monee, IL · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

What are you going to do? The Production Planner plays a key role in coordinating and optimizing manufacturing operations by developing production plans, managing production orders and Bills of ...

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Preparator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$20

$31

How much do preparator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for preparator in Chicago, IL is $20.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.54 and $25.66 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 Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,248 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Mount Shop Preparator I-III

Field Museum

Chicago, IL • On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 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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