Exhibition Preparator

JOB TITLE: Exhibition Preparator – Full Time

DEPARTMENT: Exhibitions

FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt

JOB SUMMARY:

The Exhibitions Preparator fabricates exhibitions with the highest level of craftsmanship and maintains them in good working order.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Fabricate, install, maintain, and revise exhibitions according to design specifications using power tools and hand tools.
• Handle collections, including their transfer to Exhibitions storage, documentation, mount-making, and installation.
• Maintain clean, safe, stocked, and functional production shops.
• Operate aerial work platform.
• Operate forklift.
• Re-lamp and clean permanent and special exhibitions.

OTHER DUTES:

• Assist in developing and carrying out policies and procedures for the department, division, and institution as requested.
• Assist other departments with physical emergencies, repairs, and upgrades.
• Other duties as assigned.

REPORTS TO:

Production Supervisor

WORKING RELATIONSHIPS:

This position requires an individual able to maintain professional and productive working relationships with other Exhibitions staff, Collections, Security, Visitor Services, Housekeeping, and the AV Technician.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must physically qualify to wear a respirator (which also leads to facial hair restrictions).
• Experience with shop tools and their safe use Operate aerial work platform.
• Ability to operate a forklift.
• Ability to operate an aerial lift.
• Familiarity with a broad range of materials and methods used in exhibition production.
• Experience in painting and finishing a variety of media.
• Ability to personally lift or carry exhibition objects and properties weighing up to 50 pounds, and ability to otherwise move and position objects weighing hundreds of pounds.
• Ability to ascend and descend ladders and lifts, as well as work from ladders and lifts when installing, maintaining, or removing exhibits.
• Carpentry and cabinetry experience preferred.
• At least one year in museum exhibition production preferred.
• Valid Driver’s License preferred.
• Knowledge of art and artifact handling techniques, a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office required; skill in Vectorworks and Adobe Creative Suite, a plus.
• Basic metal-working experience, a plus.
• Matting, framing, mount-making and artifact installation experience, a plus.
• Acrylic-working experience, a plus.
• Knowledge of electrical, electronics, or audio-visual technologies, a plus.
• Commitment to the mission, values, and programs of the Chicago History Museum.

This job description is not intended to be an express or implied contract between CHM and any employee. CHM employees are employees at will. CHM reserves the right to change or assign other duties to this position as necessary to meet changing business needs. CHM is an equal opportunity employer.