Lead Preparator, Fabrication Shop

The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is one of the largest museums of modern and contemporary art in the United States and a thriving cultural center for the Bay Area. We cannot imagine life without art; it inspires and connects us every day. Now more than ever, these connections matter and are aligned with our values .

Inclusive : We strive to be a museum of many voices in dialogue.

Passionate : We believe working with art is more than a job or trusteeship - it's a way of life.

Brave : We are committed to approaching our work with courage and a sense of adventure, always ready to explore new perspectives.

Empathic : We aim to act like a person, not an institution.

SFMOMA is a place for the infinitely curious to explore, support, and experience the art of our time. We believe that modern and contemporary art can influence the way we think, view the world, and embrace the many voices and perspectives around us. We aspire to foster an environment that elicits joy, nurtures a sense of belonging and purpose—where difference is seen as a strength, and every one is appreciated for their whole self.

Schedule : Full Time, 35 hours/week, fully onsite

Under the supervision of the Gallery Infrastructure & Fabrication Manager, the Lead Museum Prep, Fabrication Shop is responsible for the planning & construction of casework/display designs pertaining to SFMOMA’s Collection and Exhibitions Programs. This position collaborates extensively with other museum departments in the development and construction of Exhibition Design projects within SFMOMA’s program.

This role is referred to as “Lead” in that the individual directs other fabricators. As directed by the Gallery Infrastructure & Fabrication Manager, the Lead Fabricator may act as an interdepartmental liaison for the implementation of a given exhibition. The Lead Fabricator’s responsibilities also include representing SFMOMA to other institutions as well as setting professional examples and further developing professional standards.

Success after thirty days is represented by a familiarity with the key aspects of the fabrication shop facility, close collaborators, and the general aspects of the fabrication schedule. After one quarter, position success would entail developing day-to-day build plans & coordinating with other fabrication team members, and leading tool trainings as needed. After one year, success is marked by contributing to materials planning, strategic planning for builds and mentoring on-call team members.

• Lead fabrication shop crew in all aspects of design and execution of casework/displays utilizing proper techniques and safety standards.
• Function in a leadership role by setting an example of standards for performance and professional behavior with colleagues, including developing and enhancing professional standards, mentoring members of the Fabrication team.
• Lead Fabrication staff on a project-by-project basis, assigning and delegating tasks and responsibilities pursuant to the assigned goal, in partnership with the Fabrication Shop Supervisor. Participate in project meetings and project de-briefings, communicating fabrication concerns and plans to project teams.
• Assist the Supervisor regarding compliance with fire code safety, including supporting the update of the museum SOP. Develop and maintain methods for care, and storage of hazardous waste, building materials, and machinery pertaining to the fabrication of exhibitions casework and display fixtures.
• Consult with Preparator, Collections Technical, and Exhibition Design team members in the technical design of exhibition display fixtures including pedestals platforms and mounts. Paint and construct pedestals, boxes, fixtures and other finished structures related to the installation and display of exhibitions and works of art. Prepare galleries between exhibitions and maintain function of exhibition casework
• Work directly with artists and artist assistants towards the success of their project, while ensuring their requests are reviewed/approved by the appropriate curator, registrar, and conservator.
• Use expertise and research to make recommendations on the selection of materials and construction needs. Obtain cost estimates, work with vendors to order materials (including custom jobs) in accordance with scheduling deadlines.
• Represent SFMOMA to other institutions, both national and international, to facilitate the installation and/or deinstallation of SFMOMA-organized exhibitions and/or presented artworks from SFMOMA’s collection.
• Maintain awareness of overall Fabrication Shop activity and goals.
• Participate in or lead seminars, workshops etc. in order to keep abreast of current relevant technology and techniques as well as adding new skills to share with the department, as necessary.

• Bachelor’s Degree or Trade Certification, or equivalent work experience.
• Minimum of five (5) years of related experience or equivalent combination of training and experience. Knowledge of modern and contemporary art desired; art museum experience strongly preferred
• Leadership and project management skills essential. Ability to lead, plan for, and problem solve for fabrication projects as directed.
• Ability to read and interpret fabrication drawings, create a plan, and execute complex fabrication projects for a wide variety of applications.
• Ability to work in effective and efficient manner with regard to time and materials.
• Ability to proficiently utilize shop equipment including portable and stationary power tools.
• Demonstrated concern for detail, accuracy, and efficiency in the execution of projects.
• Demonstrated safe wood and metal shop practices with all fabrication shop equipment including both stationary and portable power tools.
• Ability to guide others in the safe use of the fabrication shop and equipment.
• Knowledge of safety precautions and procedures related to the handling of solvents, adhesives and other fabrication related solutions.
• Ability to demonstrate, and also foster, good stewardship in regards to the upkeep of the fabrication spaces.
• Ability to learn the museum’s billing procedures for supply procurement.
• Ability to demonstrate, and also foster, good stewardship in regards to the museum’s waste handling and recycling practices.
• Ability to work collaboratively and professionally with other supervisors, museum staff, students, outside clients, vendors, volunteers, and the public.
• Proven ability to communicate effectively.

• Medium lifting, up to 50 pounds. Close office setting.
• Frequent exposure to a Construction/Jobsite environment, including wood dust, paint fumes, and other environmental hazards.
• Personal protective equipment is supplied when mandated.

$36.22 - $43.47 an hour

$36.22/hour (starting); $43.47/hour (position)

This is a union position subject to the provisions of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

Job posting open date : 7/27/26

All jobs posted will remain open for at least five business days.

We encourage both internal and external candidates to apply within the initial open posting period as the application close date may or may not be extended beyond that initial period. Applications will not be accepted after a posting has been closed.

Location: San Francisco, 151 3rd Street.

Benefits: PTO, Medical, Dental, Vision, Flexible Spending Accounts, Pet Insurance, Life and AD&D Coverage, Disability Insurance, Mental Health and Wellness Benefits, Discount Programs, Pre-Tax Commuter Benefits, 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan, SFMOMA Membership, and more

At SFMOMA, we do not believe that any applicant can, or should, meet every qualification listed in a job posting. We are committed to welcoming applicants from all backgrounds and professional paths who are inspired to join a mission-driven, community-oriented organization grounded in inclusivity, passion, bravery, and empathy.

If this describes you, we encourage you to apply.

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

SFMOMA is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. No person shall be discriminated against based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, age, genetic information, ancestry/national origin, marital status, disability, medical condition, HIV status, sexual orientation, veteran/military status, and any other category protected by federal or state law.

You may request reasonable accommodation if you are unable to or are limited in your ability to access job postings or provide additional information asked in the job posting.

You can request reasonable accommodation by contacting the People Team at View email address on aiapply.co.