Technician, Relocation Inventory

MISSION

The Art Institute of Chicago shares its singular collections with our city and the world. We collect, care for, and interpret works of art across time, cultures, geographies, and identities, centering the vision of artists and makers. We recognize that all art is made in a particular context, demanding continual, dynamic reconsideration in the present. We are a place of gathering; we foster the exchange of ideas and inspire an expansive, inclusive understanding of human creativity.

Please click on the links below to view our competitive, comprehensive benefits package:

• Hiring Range
• Benefits
• PTO Overview
• Job Classification: Special Projects Hourly Staff
• Grade Level: 6

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT

The department of collections and loans (C L) oversees the management of the collection and loaned objects, defining the processes that ensure compliance with the museum’s collection and loan policies as well as legal obligations to borrowers, lenders, donors, and/or sellers. 

In four distinct areas, C L implements policies that govern the day to day application of museum best practices regarding documentation and record keeping; collection database and metadata management; logistics and shipping; art handling and packing; storage; insurance; and, risk management.

ABOUT THE POSITION

The technician, relocation inventory,  will ensure that all objects affected by the collection relocation have appropriate and accurate records in the database to facilitate the relocation move. 

RESPONSIBILITIES 

Inventory and record-keeping

• Perform a systematic review of objects in each location, cross-referencing physical location with database records. 
• Ensure essential information about objects, including confirmed dimensions, handling, and storage notes, is appropriately recorded in the database.
• Verify that existing information is accurate and that objects are labeled or tagged with their reference number.
• Highlight inaccuracies and work with collections, loans, and curatorial staff to determine verification methods. 
• Create new object records as needed, working with curatorial and conservation staff to ensure core object information is entered.

Data and analytics

• Maintain accurate location tracking in collections database, including creating new locations as needed, in consultation with the manager, collection systems.
• Confirm and verify that all objects are accounted for physically and in the collections database before relocating.
• Work with the Registrar,  Collection Relocation, to disseminate lists and reports to stakeholders as needed.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to lift, carry, and move objects, including art, weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Wear PPE as required.
• Prolonged periods walking and standing as well as sitting in front of a computer.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, ability to adjust focus, and the ability to sustain prolonged visual concentration.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma required, BA strongly preferred
• Proven knowledge of museum collection care policies, procedures and best practices and database management. Minimum 1-2 years related museum collection care required.
• Minimum 1-2 year’s experience with art handling, packing, storage, condition reporting and data entry/maintenance required.
• Exceptional organizational skills, good judgment and professional initiative.
• Excellent interpersonal, written and communication skills to implement workflows in a complex environment and represent AIC in all interactions with external parties.
• Knowledge of Google Suite and ability to learn and self-train in new digital platforms required.

ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION

The Art Institute of Chicago is an equal opportunity, equal access employer fully committed to achieving a diverse and inclusive workplace. We believe in a staff culture that benefits from a wide range of experience, backgrounds, and career paths, and we encourage nontraditional candidates to apply.

UNION INFO

This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by AFSCME Council 31.