$17.80 – $28.48 Hourly
$37,029 – $59,246 Annually
This position is a Pay Band 55
Posting Details
Interviews are anticipated to be conducted within two weeks of closing date.
Why does the job exist?
Please visit us at www.NMArtMuseum.org
Created in 1978 by the New Mexico Legislature, the Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA) represents New Mexico’s dedication to preserving and celebrating the cultural integrity and diversity of our state. The Department oversees a broad range of New Mexico’s arts and cultural heritage agencies. These include 15 divisions representing a variety of programs and services.
The Preparator prepares a variety of artworks for display; sorts objects not on display; assists with preparing works of art arriving and leaving the museum; packs and unpacks art objects; keeps adequate related supplies on hand; instructs others on proper handling and preparation techniques; installs exhibitions in the galleries; install labels and didactic wall copy; builds art storage and shipping containers or manages contracts for outside assembly; assesses the need for building maintenance and repairs; and works with the Director, Curators, Registrar, and Exhibit Designers in planning and designing installations.
The position must demonstrate a thorough knowledge of: matting and framing artworks; designing, fabricating, constructing; and installing museum exhibits. The Preparator must have knowledge of wood working, metal working, casting and electrical circuits; artistic material and processes; lighting techniques; and physical plant operations. The Preparator must have the ability to supervise the work of contractors; and to establish and maintain effective, tactful, and courteous working relationships with fellow employees, outside contractors, and the general public.
How does it get done?
The Preparator plans and organizes exhibition needs and timing; serves as backup to Facilities Manager; has familiarity and experience in electrical circuits and physical plant operation; provides expertise and consultation regarding techniques for collections presentation and preservation; has familiarity with installation and operation of AV equipment, 3-D exhibition design using Sketch-Up, and the installation of large, unwieldy and fragile artworks; maintains an inventory of tools and materials; and orders supplies and materials.
Who are the customers?
This position serves Museum and DCA staff and visitors.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate has experience: installing museum exhibits, including installation and maintenance of lighting and of audio-visual systems; handling and installing fragile and valuable works of art;
preparing artworks for exhibition through matting and framing of works on paper and photographs; creating exhibition designs using 3-D design software; moving artwork both internally and externally for a museum; and undertaking basic repairs and maintenance within a museum.
Minimum Qualification
High School diploma or Equivalent and two (2) years of experience applying archival principles, preservation methods and techniques to exhibits for conservation and aesthetic purposes. Substitutions Apply. See Substitution Table below.
Substitution Table
These combinations of education and experience qualify you for the position:
Education Experience 1 High School Diploma or Equivalent AND 2 years of experience 2 Associate’s degree or higher (Bachelor’s, Master’s) AND 0 years of experience
• Education and years of experience must be related to the purpose of the position.
• If Minimum Qualification requires a specific number of “semester hours” in a field (e.g. 6 semester hours in Accounting), applicants MUST have those semester hours in order to meet the minimum qualifications. No substitutions apply for semester hours.
Employment Requirements
Must possess and maintain a valid New Mexico Driver’s License. Must possess and maintain a current Defensive Driving Course Certificate from the state of New Mexico or must pass and receive Defensive Driving Course Certification as a condition of continued employment.
Working Conditions
Must have, or be able to obtain and maintain, a valid State of New Mexico driver’s license. Must attend State vehicle safety certification program in order to drive museum’s cargo van and truck. Must be able to use hand and power tools. Must be able to work in cold and heat, do some electrical work, and work with chemicals and dust. Weekend and evening work may be required. Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs.
Supplemental Information
Benefits:
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Agency Contact Information: Ruth LaNore (505) 469-9106 or Email: ruth.lanore@dca.nm.gov Email
For information on Statutory Requirements for this position, click the Classification Description link on the job advertisement.
Bargaining Unit Position
This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement and all terms/conditions of that agreement apply and must be adhered to.