Part Time Art Handler

The Institute for Contemporary Art at VCU invites applications for the position of part-time Art Handler.

Art Handlers/Installers 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.

The Art Handlers/Installers generally work during the 8-12 week installation and deinstallation periods between the ICA’s two synchronized exhibition cycles, with other hours as required. Art Handers/Installers report to and are under the supervision of the ICA’s Chief Preparator & Exhibition Designer and work closely with and provide support and assistance to Registrar.

Job Responsibilities

- Prepare and organize tools and equipment required for installation and deinstallation
- Assist in the inventory maintenance of consumable exhibition materials
- 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

Minimum Qualifications
- 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
- Flexibility to work nights and weekends

Preferred Qualifications
- Valid driver’s license
- Proficiency in carpentry, fabrication and production
- Demonstrated experience with workshop skills and safety, including using hand and power tools
- Demonstrated experience with/licensure in the use of: forklifts, scissor lifts, scaffolding, and rigging
- A/V installation and troubleshooting experience

Salary Range: $20-25/hr

Position Details:

Department: Institute for Contemporary Art
Employment Type: H1 - Hourly
FTE: .25