Part-Time/Intermittent Art Handler

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Summary/Objective

Art Handlers assist with delivery/receiving and installation/deinstallation of artworks and preparation and maintenance of exhibition spaces. Responsibilities may also include: construction of exhibition furniture and crates; packing and fitting crates, and assistance with inventory control and maintenance of tools and equipment.

Art Handers/Installers report to and are under the supervision of the AU Museum’s Preparator and work closely with and provide support and assistance to the Registrar.

Essential Functions

• Prepare and organize tools and equipment required for installation and deinstallation.
• Assist in the inventory maintenance and upkeep of museum tools and hardware, as well as the upkeep and cleaning of museum objects, pedestals and vitrines, and storage and collections spaces.
• Assist with incoming and outgoing art and equipment shipments.
• Prepare gallery spaces for exhibition, including: wall repair and painting.
• Assist in the construction and preparation of art installations, exhibition furniture, crates and packaging.
• Handle, move, place and prepare art objects.
• Assist artists who are on-site for installation/deinstallation.
• Assist with the installation of A/V equipment, including speakers, monitors, and projectors.
• Assist with lighting of gallery spaces.
• Install labels, signage and other didactic materials.
• Other duties as assigned.

Work Environment

• Requires the ability to work in physically demanding situations, including heavy lifting up to 50 pounds and working at heights.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• This is a part-time/intermittent position.
• This position is union-eligible.
• Art Handlers/Installers generally work during the 3-5 week installation and deinstallation periods between the AU Museum’s various exhibition cycles, with other hours as required.

Required Education and Experience

• 2-3 years experience with hands-on installation and deinstallation of complex and preferably contemporary Art installations.
• Demonstrated knowledge of and experience with museum best practices for object care and handling, packing and moving of artworks, and appropriate display techniques.
• Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrated experience working with exhibitions teams
• Good organizational and time management skills
• Ability to work in physically demanding situations, including heavy lifting up to 50 pounds and working at heights.

Union Eligibility

This position is part of a collective bargaining unit represented by SEIU Local 500. That means the terms and conditions of your employment are governed by university policy (including the Staff Personnel Policies Manual) and any collective bargaining agreement entered into between American University and SEIU Local 500.

Other Details

• Hiring offers for this position are contingent on successful completion of a background check.
• Employees in staff positions at American University must deliver their services to the university from either the District of Columbia, Maryland, or Virginia, or perform work on-site at the university.
• Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Current American University Employees

If you are a current employee at American University, please log into AsuccessfulU through the myAU portal . Once in AsuccessfulU, please select the Careers tile which will take you to our internal career page.

Contact Us

For more information or assistance with the American University careers site, email theworkline@american.edu .

American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual’s genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities.

Nearest Major Market: Washington DC