About the Role
The Preparator/Museum Assistant is responsible for the installation and de-installation of Museum exhibitions under the guidance of the Curator. This position requires a broad variety of experience,
flexibility in coordinating multiple tasks and responsibilities, good scheduling and adherence to
deadlines, and demonstrable hands-on abilities with a range of tasks.
The Preparator/Museum Assistant also works with the Office & Development Manager to facilitate
both physical office tasks, and scheduling and oversight of Museum Experience
Representatives (gallery attendants).
Duties and Responsibilities:
Preparator Duties
• Responsible for preparing the galleries and objects for exhibition. Includes painting, minor
repairs, some cleaning for public presentation, etc.
• Installs and de-installs exhibitions under the direction of the Curator, both on-site and at
off-site locations
• Maintains exhibition and facility supplies and equipment
• Lighting of exhibitions. Must be able to operate and tolerate heights on a scissor lift (training
provided)
• In conjunction with the Curator, prepares work in the collections for exhibition
• Assists with packing and unpacking art
• Acts as shipping courier (able to drive 12’ moving van to and from local art lenders for some
exhibitions). Careful and cautious driver experience a must. Must have current driver’s
license.
• Assists with housing and storage of collections
General Facilities and Museum Assistant Duties
• Coordinates with the City of Santa Clara building maintenance staff on aspects of museum
facility maintenance, including custodial service, pest control, systems maintenance, etc.
• Orders, purchases, and maintains general office supplies
• Helps supervise MER (Museum Experience Representatives, or Gallery Attendants). Duties
may include scheduling, training, security, etc.
• Coordinate communications to MERs.
• Work with Facility Rentals & Events Coordinator and Education Coordinator and other staff
to manage events, including some set-up and take-down of chairs, tables, etc. for classes,
meetings, and special events
Working Conditions / Physical Requirements:
• Work is performed in and around the Museum facility and the Museum grounds. Some tasks may be performed off-site
• May need to stand or kneel for long periods of time
• Will need to utilize ladders, stools, and scissor lifts (lift training provided)
• Must be able to bend, stoop, and lift and carry up to 70 lbs.
• Must be familiar with and competent in the use of hand tools, general power tools, pallet
jack, etc.
• Minor carpentry skills helpful
• Some public interaction and customer service
• Dress in Museum approved attire (working business casual) when picking up or returning art,
or at other times when representing the Museum in public