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Preparator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

F40 LLC

PR · On-site

$10.50/hr

Responsable del lavado, organización y acondicionamiento de autos y de clientes, asegurando mantener los más altos estándares de calidad y brindar un servicio excepcional. El Preparador de Autos ...

City of Mesa

Museum Exhibitions Coordinator

Mesa, AZ

$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 ...

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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.

How to become a preparator?

To become a preparator, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant skills in handling and installing artwork, exhibits, or scientific specimens. Many preparators gain experience through apprenticeships, internships, or on-the-job training, and familiarity with tools, materials, and safety procedures is essential. Some roles may require specialized knowledge or certifications depending on the industry or environment.

Is it hard to get hired at a museum?

Getting hired as a preparator at a museum can be competitive, often requiring relevant education in art, archaeology, or related fields, along with experience in handling and preserving artifacts or specimens. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with conservation tools can improve chances of employment, but the hiring process varies by institution and position level.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A preparator, such as a museum or art preparator, typically does not earn $10,000 a month without specialized skills or experience. High earnings in this field are uncommon without advanced expertise, certifications, or working in high-paying private sectors or executive roles. Most preparator positions offer moderate salaries and do not reach that income level solely based on experience or without formal education.

What is a work preparator?

A preparator is a professional responsible for preparing materials, exhibits, or displays for museums, galleries, or theaters. They often handle tasks such as assembling, installing, and maintaining exhibits, using tools and following safety protocols to ensure proper presentation and preservation.
More about Preparator jobs
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Preparator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Preparator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution.
PROGRAM SPECIALIST (EXHIBITION PREPARATOR) (AT-WILL)

PROGRAM SPECIALIST (EXHIBITION PREPARATOR) (AT-WILL)

City of Torrance, CA

Torrance, CA • On-site

$20.06 - $22.10/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Salary: $20.06 - $22.10 Hourly
Location : Torrance, CA
Job Type: Recurrent - Variable Hours
Job Number: 26010023EP
Department: COMMUNITY SERVICES
Opening Date: 01/27/2026
DESCRIPTION
WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE APPLICANTS TO READ THE JOB ANNOUNCEMENT
IN ITS ENTIRETY BEFORE SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION FOR THIS POSITION.
The City of Torrance is accepting applications for a Program Specialist (Exhibition Preparator) to join the
Cultural Services Division of the Community Services Department!
The Department
The Community Services Department is committed to providing quality services, activities, programs and facilities for all those who live, learn, work and play in the City of Torrance. The Community Services Department offers Torrance residents the unique opportunity to help achieve a sense of purpose, identity, self-worth and improved self-esteem within the specialized areas of Cultural Arts, Library, Parks and Recreation.
The DivisionThe mission of the Cultural Services Division is to strengthen the City of Torrance as a unique center for cultural programs, the arts and arts education through developing the Torrance Cultural Arts Center as a unified campus for learning and excellence; providing classes, programs, and events that enrich the community through arts training and instruction for all levels of learning; creating new arts experiences and attracting new audiences; serving the unique needs of artists, connecting their work to the public and developing unique artistic resources of and for this community. The Torrance Art Museum (TAM) is the premier exhibition space located in the South Bay community of Torrance whose programming is primarily focused on the temporary display of contemporary art.
The Position
The Program Specialist (Exhibition Preparator) prepares gallery walls for installation, including patching, light painting and cleaning; advises curators and artists on practical aspects of the install of artworks; installs and de-install artworks as indicated by curator(s) and artists; handles art objects and equipment in a safe and professional manner; packs and unpacks artworks per standards in the field; documents and records condition of artworks on delivery/collection and return; keeps supplies, tools and equipment organized; assists shipping companies to ensure art works arrive and depart safely and on time; and performs related work as required.
For more information about the duties of the position,
Hours: This is a recurrent, part-time, non-civil service, as needed position. Hours are flexible but concentrated around exhibition installation and deinstallation. This position may be expected to work some evenings and weekends. Employees are not to exceed 980 hours per fiscal year.
QUALIFICATION GUIDELINES
Education and Experience
Any combination of education and experience that would have provided the required knowledge and skills is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and skills would be:
Graduation from High School or equivalent and one year of recent part-time work experience directly related to recreation or community programs and services. Some positions may require specific experience in a field such as: fine or performing arts, sports, preschool, therapeutic recreation, senior citizens, parks or science programs. An Associate's degree in a related field is desirable.
License and/or Certificates
Negative tuberculin test. A valid California Class C Driver's License.
Ideal Candidate
In addition to the minimum qualifications, the ideal candidate will possess:
Knowledge of
  • Principals, techniques, and practices of art handling used in gallery/museum exhibitions;
  • Proper handling, shipping and transport of art objects, construction techniques, common building supply materials, hanging and installing artwork, painting, and setting lights.
Ability to
  • Regularly lift up to 35 pounds and occasionally over 75 pounds;
  • Have physical stamina to climb ladders and be on your feet;
  • Use common hand and power tools;
  • Use scaffolding and a scissor lift;
  • Work independently and within time constraints and deadlines;
  • Work occasional evenings and weekends;
  • Read, write and comprehend instructions in English;
  • Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with all persons contacted in the course of work including fellow employees and other City representatives, curators, artists, volunteers and outside vendors;
  • Drive a passenger van and truck.

HOW TO APPLY & EXAM PROCESS
Interested applicants must submit an online application available at Application submissions will be accepted on a continuous basis until the position is filled. Interviews will take place on an as needed basis. Only those candidates whose experience best meet the needs of the City and the Department will be invited to participate in a panel interview.
Only those candidates who best meet the City and Department's needs will be invited to participate in the examination process, which will consist of the following components:
Oral Interview: Weighted 100%
SPECIAL NOTES
Visit www.TorranceCA.Gov to find out more information about the City of Torrance.
Applicants with disabilities who require special testing arrangements must contact Human Resources. If you have a disability for which you require an accommodation, please contact us at (310) 618-2915 no later than five (5) business days before the test date. For further information, click here.
As a condition of employment, candidates must pass a background check and a pre-employment medical examination.
The provisions of this announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract and any provisions contained in this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice.
City of Torrance Inclusion StatementThe City of Torrance is a welcoming and culturally-rich community. As a pillar of public service, we strive to be an employer of choice by attracting and retaining a talented workforce where people of diverse backgrounds, cultures, religions, and lifestyles are valued. Our mission is to create an inclusive environment where our staff are empowered to perform at their highest level and contribute towards making a positive impact.
The City is an equal opportunity employer and works towards building collaborative teams from all walks of life without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state and/or local law. Come join us to help cultivate a workplace that welcomes and celebrates the diversity of our employees!
The City of Torrance offers a range of benefit programs for employees and their eligible dependents. Benefits may include health, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a variety of voluntary benefits. Programs and benefits amounts vary and are based on bargaining unit, family size, hire date, plan selection, and number of hours worked.
To view the current benefits for Torrance Recurrent Recreational Employee Organization bargaining unit, visit:
For additional information about the City's benefits, visit:
RETIREMENT BENEFITS - The City contracts with the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) to provide retirement benefits. Retirement formula is based on appointment date and membership status with CalPERS.

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