Lead Preparator

The Huntington is a proud equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities regardless of race, religious creed, color, national origin, disability, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by local, state or federal law. About the Role The Lead Preparator is a senior member of The Huntington’s Preparation team, under Registration and Collections Management. This position is integral in the consistent planning and implementation of the institution’s schedule of special exhibitions, permanent collection rotations, and collections care. The Lead Preparator’s primary responsibility is to prepare for and execute installations of Library, Art and Botanical exhibitions and outgoing loans, with a small team of preparators. They are responsible for handling, packing, transporting and storing artworks according to museum standards and training junior staff in these procedures. Essential Duties Lead the installation/de-installation of exhibitions, gallery rotations, collections rehousing projects and all related work, in collaboration with Registration, Exhibitions, Preservation and Curatorial colleagues. Receiving, unpacking and packing artwork. Placement and hanging of artwork. Exhibition lighting. Creating or modifying mounts and case buildups. Retrofitting crate interiors. Wall and case repair. Independently maintain a schedule of tasks and coordinate with Head of Preparations, registrars, conservators, and exhibition coordinators to plan and execute the annual exhibition program. Delegate tasks to and supervise a small team of preparators. Maintain quality control in all operations. Provide guidance to Broad DAP apprentices during their placements at The Huntington. Plan and execute outgoing loan preparations. Provide support in the installation of A/V components. Ongoing monitoring and maintenance of gallery spaces, exhibition lighting and A/V elements. Attend planning meetings and object review sessions. Oversee frame buildouts for historic paintings. Design and implement training program in Huntington object prep procedures. Maintain clean, well‑organized and safe work and storage spaces. Work with Registration and Collections Management colleagues to transport art between collections storage facilities and galleries, and to off‑site locations for framing, photography, loan return/pickup, etc. Ensure adherence to SOPs and safety protocols in all operations (ladders, truck liftgate, scissor lift, forklift, order picker, etc.). Collaborate with colleagues in Registration, Preservation, Security, and Facilities to maintain the Emergency Preparedness Plan for collections and loan material. Procure materials and process payments. Provide status updates on ongoing projects. Participate in HVAC monitoring. Candidate Requirements and Experience Bachelor’s degree in studio art, art history, or equivalent experience. At least six years of experience in preparation, collections management, and installation in a public gallery or museum setting. Mastery of art-handling procedures, including packing and crating for two‑ and three‑dimensional objects in a variety of materials, sizes and weights. Expertise in industry standard materials, processes, equipment, and safety protocols. Working knowledge of works on paper preparation methods (mounting, matting, framing). Experience with carpentry, metalworking and acrylic fabrication. Experience using heavy equipment, including scissor‑lift, gantry, pallet jack, and pedal lift required. Demonstrated experience with project management and task delegation. Advanced rigging skills strongly preferred. Must have work experience driving a medium‑size truck. Maintains TSA certified screener status. Must be able to lift 50 pounds. Must be comfortable climbing ladders and working at height. Other Desirable Qualifications Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with museum staff, representatives from other arts institutions, consultants, artists, and vendors. Ability to plan, prioritize, multi‑task, and meet deadlines. Ability to ensure adherence to the institution’s values in all activities. Safe driving record; work experience driving a medium‑size truck. Facility with word processing, Excel, Microsoft suite. Proven solutions‑oriented, diplomatic problem solver and true team player. Outstanding interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills. Working knowledge of electrical wiring. Compensation & Benefits Pay Range: $32.00–$33.00 per hour, commensurate with experience. Medical, Dental, Vision coverage. 403(b) retirement plan with employer match. Considerable paid time off, including annual leave, sick leave, and holidays. Discounts for staff in The Huntington Store and restaurants. Free admission to various museums and cultural institutions. Free passes each month to welcome family and friends to visit the grounds. #J-18808-Ljbffr