Association of Academic Museums and Galleries

Faculty of Arts and Sciences

55981BR

Job Summary

The Exhibitions Production Assistant is responsible for the preparation, installation, and de-installation of exhibitions at the Carpenter Center for the Visual Arts. As a key member of the exhibitions team, and reporting to the Exhibitions Manager/Registrar, the Exhibitions Production Assistant supports all technical aspects of the exhibition process from early planning through completion, including exhibition design development and drafting plans, coordinating, and executing gallery construction and exhibition build-out, and ensuring the safe handling and installation of artworks. This position works closely with artists on installation methods as well as the fabrication and production of new artwork commissions. Additionally, this position is responsible for the overall maintenance and upkeep of the gallery spaces, storage areas, and equipment and supply inventory. The Exhibitions Production Assistant works closely with all members of the Carpenter Center staff and collaborates with stakeholders in the department of Art Film and Visual Studies, Harvard Film Archive, and Building Operations staff.

Job-Specific Responsibilities

• Prepares, installs and de-installs artwork for exhibition according to professional museum standards.
• Designs and constructs artwork mounts and determines safe installation methods in collaboration with the Exhibitions Manager/Registrar.
• Plans for and installs media-based artworks and technical equipment. 
• Receives and releases art shipments, packs/unpacks artwork, and coordinates the movement of artwork within the building.
• Prepares galleries for exhibition, including constructing, patching, and painting walls, and overseeing contractors.
• Collaborates with artists on the fabrication of newly commissioned artwork. 
• Works with the exhibition team on the development and implementation of exhibition designs including drafting design plans.
• Designs, fabricates, and installs exhibition furniture, pedestals, cases, one-of-a-kind artist driven constructions, and other display elements.
• Installs and maintains lighting in exhibition galleries.
• Produces and installs exhibition graphics and labels and coordinates with vendors and graphic designer as needed.
• Supports the Exhibitions Manager/Registrar in hiring, scheduling, and overseeing contract installation staff.
• Maintains exhibition galleries including daily artwork and equipment maintenance as needed.
• Manages and organizes supply and equipment storage and inventory.
• Supports building projects and operations as needed in consultation with the Exhibitions Manager/Registrar and Building Manager.
• Works closely with the Exhibitions Manager/Registrar to create project budgets, process payments, and track expenses.
• Assists with the setup for public programing and related events including audio/video set-up and general support.
• Attends and participates in meetings and ongoing communications with internal and external stakeholders on a regular basis.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

Minimum of 3-years of experience as a preparator, installer, art-handler, exhibition technician, or similar position in a museum, gallery, or arts organization.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Studio Arts, Art History, Design, Architecture, or similar field preferred or commensurate work experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge of museum best practices and standards in exhibiting, handling, and installing artworks.
• Familiarity with exhibition design practices and a thorough knowledge of construction techniques and materials.
• Excellent carpentry and woodworking skills, and the ability to safely use power tools and specialized equipment.
• Experience installing media-based artwork or audio-visual equipment.
• Working knowledge of exhibition lighting.
• Experience with and interest in working with contemporary art and artists.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively, conscientiously, and effectively with others in a team environment
• Flexible and creative problem solver.
• Ability to take initiative to work independently to manage assigned projects and deliverables.
• Ability to work well under pressure amidst shifting priorities, managing time, staying organized, and meeting deadlines.
• Meticulous attention to detail.
• High level interpersonal and communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Creative Cloud, Dropbox, Basecamp, and Sketchup or AutoCAD and ability to learn new computer applications.

Physical Requirements

Must be able to lift up to 50lbs. Must be able to stand, walk, carry, stoop, kneel, twist, squat, bend and reach overhead. Comfortable with heights, climbing ladders and using scissor lift.

COVID Vaccine Policy
Harvard will require COVID vaccination for all Harvard community members who will have any on-campus presence. Individuals may claim exemption from the vaccine requirement for medical or religious reasons. More information regarding the University’s COVID vaccination requirement and exceptions may be found at the University’s “COVID-19 Vaccine Information” webpage: http://www.harvard.edu/coronavirus/covid-19-vaccine-information/.

Applications can be submitted here:
https://sjobs.brassring.com/TGnewUI/Search/home/HomeWithPreLoad?partnerid=25240&siteid=5341&PageType=JobDetails&jobid=1924643

Additional Information

All formal offers will be made by FAS Human Resources

Job Function

Museum

Location

USA – MA – Cambridge

Job Code

403084 Exhibit Assistant II

Sub-Unit

————

Department

Art, Film and Visual Studies

Time Status

Full-time

Salary Grade

053

Union

55 – Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers

Pre-Employment Screening

Criminal, Identity

Schedule

M-F, 9-5 with occasional nights or weekends.

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.