Lead Preparator

PURPOSE AND SCOPE

Under the general supervision of the Curatorial Affairs Manager and in coordination with the Registrar, the Lead Preparator plans and provides museum-standard art handling and preparation services for collection artworks, loaned artworks, and exhibitions. Working with the curatorial team, part-time preparators, vendors, and contractors, the Lead Preparator coordinates and executes the installation of Museum exhibitions. The role also covers ongoing maintenance of collection and loan objects on view and in storage, assistance with condition reporting, daily maintenance of artwork and gallery signage, weekly maintenance of exhibition spaces, and preparation and framing of works on paper and paintings.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The duties set out below are the essential functions of this position.

Art Handling, Preparation, and Collection Care

• Monitors and maintains works of art daily, in storage and on exhibit, to ensure object safety and aesthetic presentation.
• Prepares artworks according to museum best practices, including hinging, archival matting, framing, frame fabrication, mount-making for exhibitions and long-term storage, and planning for archival packing.
• Installs all exhibition signage, including object labels, wall texts, and vinyl lettering.
• Maintains galleries for hands-on and participatory public engagement activities.
• With the Director of Security and Facilities and building staff, keeps art storage, shipping and receiving, and preparation areas clean and well organized.
• Maintains packing, storage, and exhibition preparation supplies.
• Performs special projects and other related duties as required.

Exhibition Installation and Logistics

• Serves as an essential team member in logistical planning for exhibitions across the Museum’s indoor and outdoor spaces.
• With the curatorial team, organizes and executes installation of special exhibitions and permanent collection presentations.
• With the exhibition curator and the Director of Security and Facilities, evaluates object and gallery space requirements and proposes installation solutions, including construction, pedestal fabrication, and sourcing of media equipment, with attention to budget and deadlines.
• Coordinates outdoor installation logistics with the exhibition curator, the Director of Security and Facilities, and contracted vendors. Site work such as concrete pouring and structural installation is performed by third-party contractors; this position coordinates scheduling and site access, is present on site as required, and maintains the artwork once installed.
• Maintains current training and certification on Museum-provided installation equipment, including scissor lifts.

Crew Supervision and Vendor Coordination

• Plans and budgets for preparator assistance on a project basis and supervises the team to meet department goals and timelines.
• Organizes and supervises part-time preparators, and directs art handlers, photographers, and contracted crews during installation and deinstallation, including projects requiring special installation, design, or rigging.
• Serves as the primary day-to-day contact for exhibition-related vendors, art handlers, and contracted preparators, and schedules outside contractors in coordination with the exhibition curator, the Curatorial Affairs Manager, and the Director of Security and Facilities.
• Solicits and reviews vendor estimates and provides cost information to the exhibition curator and Curatorial Affairs Manager for budget tracking and expense approval.
• Collects vendor and contractor documentation, including permits and proof of insurance, for the staff responsible for contract approval and labor compliance, and confirms it has been received before work begins on site.
• Ensures all work meets Museum standards for object safety and installation quality.

Loans and Collection Documentation

• Oversees and prepares incoming and outgoing loans and acquisitions, managing loan documentation, condition reports, and object location records with the Registrar and Curatorial Affairs Manager.
• Assists the Registrar with collection inventory and location record updates.
• Assists art couriers as required by the Registrar.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND SKILLS

• Minimum five years of museum art handling and exhibition installation experience, with progressively increasing responsibility and the ability to troubleshoot complex installation logistics.
• Experience installing a broad range of mediums, including painting, sculpture, works on paper, moving image, and sound.
• Demonstrated experience overseeing the installation of outdoor sculpture.
• Experience in archival matting, framing, and hinging, with an emphasis on works on paper.
• Experience supervising preparators, art handlers, or contracted crews.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple concurrent installation timelines.
• Experience with The Museum System (TMS) or other collection databases.

ADDITIONAL ABILITIES

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; works well independently and as part of a team with staff, vendors, and the public.
• Committed to confidentiality, integrity, and high ethical standards.
• Professionalism, curiosity, and a deep respect for the care and stewardship of cultural objects.
• Aligned with the Museum’s mission as a dynamic cultural resource for the East End community and beyond.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Most work is performed in the Museum’s art storage spaces, galleries, and loading dock, with some office work using computers and office equipment. The typical work week is 35 hours, Monday through Friday; extra or weekend hours may be required.

The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. This position:

• Operates tools and machinery including scissor lift, dock lift, table saw, drill press, miter saw, frame chop, heavy material lift, routers, and small hand tools.
• Frequently stands, walks, bends, crouches, and works on ladders and lifts for extended periods.
• Lifts heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Works in and around active installation, loading dock, and shipping and receiving areas.

SCOPE OF AUTHORITY

Reports to the Curatorial Affairs Manager, who holds senior responsibility for curatorial operations and exhibition planning, and works closely with the Chief Curator and the Registrar. Supervises part-time preparators and directs the on-site work of art handlers and contracted crews for assigned installations. Expense approval and contract approval rest with the exhibition curator and Curatorial Affairs Manager rather than with this position.

COMPENSATION

The hourly rate of pay for this position ranges from $36.00 to $40.00 per hour, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

This position is classified as non-exempt and is eligible for overtime compensation at 1.5 times the regular rate for all hours worked over 40 in a workweek, in accordance with federal and New York State wage and hour laws. The standard schedule is 35 hours per week; hours worked between 35 and 40 are paid at the regular rate. Overtime above 40 hours in a workweek should be scheduled in advance with the supervising manager. All hours worked are recorded and paid in accordance with applicable law.

The Parrish Art Museum offers a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, and participation in the Museum’s retirement plan, subject to eligibility based on employment classification.

ABOUT THE PARRISH ART MUSEUM

The Parrish Art Museum is a place to discover and connect with art and artists, with a focus on the creative legacy of Eastern Long Island and its global impact on the art world. The Museum presents temporary exhibitions, including installations drawn from its collection of more than 3,000 works, alongside single-artist and thematic group exhibitions, hundreds of public programs, and year-round education initiatives.

DISCLAIMER

This job description is not intended to be a complete list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position.

HOW TO APPLY

Send a resume and cover letter to [email protected]. Position open until filled. Due to the high volume of interest, we cannot respond to individual applicants; selected candidates will be contacted to schedule an interview. No phone calls, please.

The Parrish Art Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.