Preparator
The Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis seeks experienced preparators to join the installation team and implement the physical execution of museum exhibitions. Preparators report to the Registrar and work closely with the curatorial department. CAM has two installation periods per year, ranging from three to four weeks, in which all current exhibitions are packed, galleries are reconfigured, and new exhibitions are installed. The upcoming installation period is August 12–September 5, 2024.
This is a temporary, seasonal position. Working hours are Monday–Friday, 8:00 am–4:00 pm, with possible late nights and/or weekends.
Responsibilities
- Pack, unpack, and install works of art including, but not limited to, paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations
- Prepare and paint galleries and display furniture, including demolition and wall preparation
- Install wall text and vinyl
- Perform basic carpentry and construction projects as needed
- Install and test A/V equipment
Qualifications
- Experience handling and installing all types of art objects, lighting, gallery preparation and painting, framing, and fine art packing
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Communicates effectively and carries out instructions precisely
- Works well under pressure and meet deadlines
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds comfortably and work at heights over 10 feet
- Mechanical ability and shop experience with hand and bench tools; basic carpentry skills
- Knowledge of fabrication with wood, metal, plastics, electrical, and electronic components
- Experience moving heavy objects and the attendant use of pallet jacks or lifts
- Ability to work while standing, walking, bending, stooping, and reaching for extended periods of time
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous museum art handling experience
- A strong interest in art and equivalent professional experience
- Scissor lift and/or forklift operator certification
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Fine Art, Art History, Museums Studies or related field
Compensation
Compensation is commensurate with qualifications and experience. The pay range for this position is $22–$26/hour.
Application Instructions
Please click “Apply Here” at the bottom of the job posting page to be forwarded to the application portal. In order to apply, you must create a free account for Submittable. You will be asked to upload a cover letter and resume. All inquiries and materials will be confidential. Applications will be accepted until July 15th, but priority consideration will be given to those received by June 30. Applications will be acknowledged.
Diversity, Equity, Access, and Inclusion
The Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis is committed to embracing diversity, practicing equity, and ensuring accessibility and inclusion. We will continually strive to achieve a welcoming environment in all our spaces, where staff, artists, board, and community feel reflected and valued for their unique perspectives and backgrounds. DEAI values will guide and impact all the decisions the museum makes, both internal and external, so that we are choosing a path toward ongoing transformation.
CAM is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, age, family responsibilities, national origin, or veteran status.
About the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis
The Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis works to enrich lives and inspire curiosity, creativity, and learning through experiences with contemporary art. Focused on a dynamic array of changing exhibitions, the Museum reflects and contributes to the global cultural landscape while engaging thousands of visitors through a wide array of public programs. CAM nurtures the creative minds of our city’s youth through free, in-depth art education, making a long-lasting impact on the community. We are a site for discovery, a welcoming space, free and open to all.