Temporary Museum Preparator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Salary: $20.87 - $22.99 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.