ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Preparator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chrysler Museum Of Art

Art Preparator I

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$21 - $24.04/hr

Art Preparator I The Chrysler Museum of Art, located at 1 Memorial Place in Norfolk, VA, is renowned for its extensive collection of over 30,000 objects displayed across 50 galleries. The Museum ...

American

Part-Time Art Handler II

Campus, IL · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Art Hander II works under the supervision of the AU Museum's Preparator and works closely with, and provides support and assistance, to the Registrar. Essential Functions: * Oversee Art Handler 1 ...

New

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsPreparator Jobs

Preparator information

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 cities are hiring for Preparator jobs? Cities with the most Preparator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Preparator jobs? The most popular types of Preparator jobs are:
What states have the most Preparator jobs? States with the most job openings for Preparator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Preparator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Preparator jobs are:
Preparator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Preparator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.

Art Preparator I

Chrysler Museum Of Art

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$21 - $24.04/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Art Preparator I

The Chrysler Museum of Art, located at 1 Memorial Place in Norfolk, VA, is renowned for its extensive collection of over 30,000 objects displayed across 50 galleries. The Museum offers a diverse range of art, from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces. A standout feature is its Glass Studio, the only one of its kind in the Mid-Atlantic, where visitors can watch live glassblowing demonstrations and participate in hands-on classes. The Museum's commitment to accessibility is highlighted by its free admission policy, making it a welcoming destination for both art enthusiasts and families.

Department:

52 - Registration

FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt/Hourly

Position Type:

Full-time

Supervisor duties:

None

Reports to:

Chief Registrar

Date:

May 2025

Primary Purpose:

Art Preparator I will collaborate with Registration, Exhibitions, and Curatorial teams to install exhibitions, handle and transport artwork, manage storage, conduct condition assessments, and support conservation efforts. They ensure proper mounting, lighting, and environmental controls while maintaining museum standards for preservation and security.

Key Performance Indicators (KPI):

Job Knowledge, Respect, Openness, Growth, Dynamism, Communication, Collaboration, Efficiency and Precision

Essential Functions:

Technical & Operational Performance

  • Exhibition Installation Accuracy – Ensuring artworks are mounted, lit, and displayed correctly according to curatorial and conservation guidelines. Prepares artwork for display (e.g. matting, framing, mounting, glazing, installation of hardware.) Installs and de-installs temporary and permanent exhibitions.
  • Artwork Handling & Transport Efficiency – Safely packing, moving, and storing artworks with minimal risk of damage or loss. Participates in all phases of art movement within the museum for works in the collection, loans, and incoming and outgoing exhibitions.
  • Assists with the preparation of labels and text panels.
  • Maintains exhibition and gallery lighting.
  • Provides technical support for all exhibitions (e.g. setting up and managing audio-visual equipment, and preparation of temporary walls and exhibition furniture, etc.)
  • Storage & Inventory Management – Maintaining organized, secure, and accessible storage spaces for artworks and exhibition materials.

Quality & Safety Standards

  • Condition Reporting & Documentation – Review and interpret reports to monitor artwork status and preservation requirements. Ensure proper handling based on documented information and maintain awareness of collection care protocols. Recognize potential condition issues and notify Registrars or conservators as needed, ensuring proper handling and care of artworks.
  • Compliance with Museum Standards & Protocols – Adhering to conservation-approved handling methods, safety regulations, and environmental controls.
  • Timely Execution of Projects – Completing installations, deinstallations, and preparation tasks within designated deadlines.
  • Prepares artwork for travel (e.g. lining crates, soft packing, etc.). Provides transport as necessary.
  • Assists with care of the museum’s collection and collection storage areas.

Collaboration & Communication

  • Effective Coordination with Departments – Working closely with Curatorial, Registration, Conservation, and Exhibition teams to execute projects seamlessly.
  • Problem-Solving & Adaptability – Addressing unforeseen installation challenges and adjusting displays as needed.
  • Teamwork & Contribution – Supporting colleagues and fostering a cooperative, efficient work environment.
  • Serves as an ambassador for the Museum locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally.
  • Performs other duties as assigned or required.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • High School or equivalent education.
  • Must have at least 1 year of experience in art handling and/or exhibitions installation.
  • Must be meticulous and able to work as part of a team to accomplish challenging tasks.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • BA/BS; background in Museum studies, fine arts, art handling, or a related field is preferred.
  • Prior Museum experience is strongly preferred.
  • Carpentry experience.
  • Audio Visual technology experience.
  • Matting and framing experience.

Working Conditions:

Position will be based in busy environments, be subject to frequent interruptions, and require interaction with the public.

Position requires the individual to be able to work with power tools of various types.

Physical Requirements:

Must be able to climb ladders and work at varying heights.

Must be able to lift and carry delicate and awkward items weighing up to 75 lbs. without assistance.

Requires intermittent standing, walking, sitting, squatting, stretching, and bending throughout the workday.

Must be able to see and hear or use prosthetics that will enable these senses to function adequately to ensure that the requirements of this position can be fully met.