Job Opportunity: Head Preparator
Image: Installation of "In Pursuit of Beauty" exhibition. c/o Express Newark Indies.
Paul Robeson Galleries
The Paul Robeson Galleries is seeking an experienced art preparator to work at the Rutgers University – Newark campus. Individual will be responsible for art handling, installation, transportation, and storage. The successful candidate will be reliable, have a great degree of initiative, and be an effective problem solver. Candidate will have a demonstrated knowledge of museum-standard artwork handling skills.
Established in 1979, the Paul Robeson Galleries’ mission and programming embody Paul Robeson’s life-long commitment to unfettered artistic freedom, cultural democracy, and transnationalism. This mission is carried out in the presentation of visual arts exhibitions, gallery education and other public programs, and in partnerships with community organizations. We are currently looking for a highly motivated, organized individual to work as an intern with our team. Interns to work with us on a variety of projects, including the realization of exhibitions and public programs, assisting with educational workshops, participating in special events and openings, helping with artist residencies, and much more. Internships can be used for credit or as a self-initiated educational experience. During this internship, you will learn some of the ins and outs of gallery administration and operations; meet local artists and community partners; interact with visitors; assist in education and public programming.
Responsibilities/Skills
- Oversee installation of art exhibitions organized by the Paul Robeson Campus across the Rutgers
- University – Newark campus and occasionally offsiteMaintenance of all exhibition spaces on campus
- Ability to lead a team of freelance preparators to ensure safe and efficient art handling
- Computer skills – Outlook, Word, Excel, Illustrator, Photoshop
- Experience matting, mounting and framing artworks
- Transport – safe transportation and packaging of artworks
- Registration – assist with registration process for artworks in collection and processing of temporary loans
- Able to safely lift up to 75 pounds and maneuver objects of substantial size and weight on a daily basis without damage to object or person
- Knowledge of best practices and materials for packing and installing artwork
- Experience installing a wide range of artworks including heavy objects and technology-based artworks
- Must be extremely diligent and careful in handling artwork, attention to detail
- Excellent people skills – must be able to work as part of a team of people at the University, as well as external lenders & artists. Clear communication is essential.
- Order supplies, develop and maintain relationships with vendors
- Other duties as required
Experience
Minimum of five years working in museum environment (or equivalent)
Other Requirements
- Current driver’s license and car
- Proven ability to drive trucks
Rate of Pay
$45 per hour, 19.5 hours per week
Standard Weekly Hours
Monday – Wednesday 9am to 4pm. Some additional hours may occasionally be required.
Application Instructions
All applications must be lodged through the Rutgers HR Portal. Applications close 3/10/19
