Minneapolis Institute of Art

Assistant Preparator

Full time (37.5 hours weekly), non-exempt, union

Hourly rate: $30.30 – 30.96, depending on qualifications

Onsite; not eligible for relocation

The Job

Responsible for gallery preparation and maintenance, handling and installing works of art and other movements of works of art within the museum and outside the museum.

In this role, you will….

1. Prepare works of art and displays for exhibition and installation. Be responsible for conveyance of works of art throughout the building in a proper and professional manner using best museum practices.
2. Be responsible for exhibition production and gallery object(s) rotations. Implementing designs for exhibitions by constructing exhibition furniture and/or locating and moving existing structures into place.
3. Prepare, maintain, and refurbish gallery spaces, including patching and painting of gallery walls and mounting of labels.
4. Be familiar with methods and techniques used to create works of art from prehistoric works to contemporary works. Have an awareness and understanding of the works of art which comprise the museum's permanent collection.
5. Install works of art within the museum and occasionally at off-site locations.
6. Deliver and collect works of art by truck, both locally and interstate. Must be able to load large lots safely.
7. Work with the Assistant Registrar for Storage and curatorial staff to organize and maintain storage areas. Including construction of storage furniture and devices.
8. Assists the Head Preparator with maintenance of the shop, shop tools, and supplies. Includes collection of supplies from distributors.
9. Prepares and mounts labels for permanent and temporary galleries.

To be successful in this role…

1. You demonstrate good judgement in a dynamic environment and work well with a team.
2. You can work at a quick pace when necessary and can pivot to and away from projects as required.
3. You are a good listener and able to follow directions.
4. You offer ideas and insight regarding projects.
5. You are punctual and understand the importance of showing up on time.

Specific Requirements

1. BA in studio art or equivalent combination of education and experience
2. Minimal one year of related work experience in museum or gallery; knowledge of works of art and how to move them; carpentry and painting skills
3. Good manual dexterity; ability to stand for long periods of time; ability to lift 75 lbs. (will be required to lift heavier weights with assistance of lifting equipment and/or staff); ability to safely navigate tight spaces

Equipment Operated:

Hand and power tools, shop machines, winch, gantry, power hi-jack, scaffold, pallet truck, van and rental trucks (to 24 feet).

Mia Culture

The Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) is an audience-centered, equitable and inclusive workplace where everyone is welcome. Mia is Mission Driven, Generous, Agile, Emotionally Aware, and Positive, and endeavors to create a workplace culture where staff are responsible to one another, to our visitors, and to themselves to do the best work possible.

Mia Benefits and Perks

Health and Wellness: Mia offers comprehensive health benefits, including medical coverage through Medica, dental insurance with Delta Dental, and vision coverage via EyeMed. Our wellness programs include various trainings and classes, an annual health fair, flu shots, and access to an Employee Assistance Program to support your overall well-being.

Financial Security: We provide financial peace of mind with a variety of options, including a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for health expenses and a Dependent Care Account (DCA) for dependent care expenses, Mia paid life insurance, and short- and long-term disability coverage. Our 403(b) Retirement + Savings Plan includes a percentage of salary contribution from Mia after two years of employment.

Additional Perks: Mia encourages professional growth with opportunities for development and learning. In addition to vacation and sick days, enjoy a balanced work-life with a 37.5-hour work week, 11 paid holidays, and 2 personal days annually. Staff members receive free Mia membership, discounted or free tickets to select events and exhibits, subsidized MTC Metropass bus/transit passes, and free parking. Additionally, staff can partake in social events, volunteer opportunities, and receive discounts at the Mia Store, Agra Culture café, Children's Theatre Company, and Minneapolis College of Art and Design for continuing education classes.

Join Mia and enjoy a workplace that values your health, financial security, and personal development, all while contributing to a vibrant cultural institution.

To Apply

To be considered for this position, please apply online at https://jobs-artsmia.submittable.com/submit.

Posting Deadline

No set expiration date. Job postings typically stay posted until candidates are selected for phone interviews.

Mia is committed to championing policies and practices that value diversity, foster equity, and empower an accessible and inclusive environment. Our strength lies in the diversity among the broad range of people who contribute their time and talents to Mia. We consider inclusion and accessibility a driver of institutional excellence and seek out diversity of participation, thought, and action. It is our aim, therefore, that our employees, trustees, interns, and volunteers reflect and embrace these core values.

Mia is recognized by the Age-Friendly Institute’s Certified Age Friendly Employer (CAFE) program that identifies organizations committed to being the best places to work for employees aged 50+.

AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION / EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

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