Preparator

Description

Reports to: Head Preparator

Division: Collections, Exhibitions, and Interpretation

Classification: Non-exempt, full-time

Benefits: Full Museum Benefits

Compensation: Commensurate with experience

DMA Mission: The Dallas Museum of Art is a space of wonder and discovery where art comes alive.

The DMA will:

• Place art and our diverse communities at the center around which all activities radiate.
• Pursue excellence in collecting and programming, present works of art across cultures and time, and be a driving force in contemporary art.
• Strengthen our position as a prominent, innovative institution, expanding the meaning and possibilities of learning and creativity.

Scope of Position:

The DMA Preparator is primarily responsible for art handling duties in support of exhibitions, the permanent collection, and long-term loans. As an integral part of the Collections, Exhibitions, and Interpretation Department, DMA Preparators work independently or as part of a larger team, implementing best museum practices for the installation, preparation, and packing of all art objects, based on institutional need.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with the Head Preparator, Permanent Collection Registrar, and assigned Lead Preparators on daily tasks and projects.
• Handle all art objects (e.g., installation, packing, transport, etc.) by following DMA policies, procedures, and provided instructions, with consideration for the safety of all objects, employees, and museum patrons.
• Effectively communicate status updates, including project timelines, art object movements, and project / object concerns, to the appropriate Collections staff members.
• Maintain all art object storage and preparation areas, including the maintenance and restock of all tools, tool carts, materials, and supplies.
• Receive/release art objects via the loading dock from/to second- and third-party shippers, in coordination with the assigned project Registrar.
• Perform occasional off-site packing, pickups, and deliveries using the museum van and materials.
• Occasionally act as a courier for art object movements, both domestically and internationally, as assigned, and based on institutional need.
• Remain current on all applied art handling techniques and methodologies.
• Follow all institutional requirements, including the use of technology systems, training, and procedures.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of all DMA projects, shipments, and art movement schedules.

Requirements

Education, Experience, and Certifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Art History, Fine Arts, or three or more years of experience in professional art handling.

Key Qualifications: 

• Knowledge of best museum practices, with a focus on art object handling, installation, and packing methodologies (knowledge of art object materials a plus).
• Ability to use a wide variety of equipment, including power and manual tools, material lifts and conveyances (operational knowledge of forklifts and rigging equipment a plus).
• Ability to safely work on a ladder, high lift, or scaffolding.
• Ability to visually inspect artwork, walk or stand for extended periods of time, and the ability to safely lift and carry 50 lbs. or more.
• Ability to cooperate and follow instructions while working independently or with a team.
• Excellent computer skills, including Microsoft Office applications and exceptional comfort with digital tools and software.
• Excellent oral and written command of the English language, including knowledge of art history, art production, and art handling terminology.
• Interact with the staff, public, vendors, artists and scholars, in alignment with the values of the Dallas Museum of Art.
• Operational knowledge of computerized collections management systems, such as TMS (The Museum System), a plus.

Our Core Values 

• Act with Integrity: We are honest and ethical. 
• Build Inclusivity: We create spaces where everyone can feel like they belong. 
• Communicate Respectfully: We listen intentionally and advocate for diverse perspectives. 
• Embrace and Drive Change: We are innovative, creative, and solutions driven. 
• Foster Connections: We collaborate around shared goals. 
• Maintain Balance: We encourage ourselves and each other to reflect and recharge. 
• Remain Curious: We pursue personal and professional learning. 

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

The Dallas Museum of Art fosters equity, celebrates diversity, and supports inclusion. We acknowledge that diverse backgrounds and voices of visitors, volunteers, trustees, staff, and communities represented in the collection make us stronger and better equipped to make positive impacts locally, nationally, and internationally.

Equity

Society’s historical legacies and systemic barriers have created disparities in the communities we serve. Knowing this, we strive to expand and enhance arts opportunities for all.

Diversity

Many factors—including but not limited to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetics, economic backgrounds, and experiences—make individuals and groups unique. Our goal is to ensure visitors, volunteers, trustees, staff, and collections reflect this diversity.

Inclusion

We commit to listening to and learning from diverse voices and perspectives. We create a vibrant and accessible social space that encourages dialogue and the exchange of ideas through arts and culture.

EOE

The Dallas Museum of Art is committed to building a culturally diverse staff and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The DMA provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.