What are the responsibilities and job description for the Museum Exhibitions Trades Aide position at Michigan State University?
Position Summary(Basic Job Function)
This is a temporary or an on-call position. Provides support in one or more skilled trades areas such as a bindery machine operator, carpenter, electrician, glazier, instrument maker, locksmith, mason, mechanic, machinist, painter, pipefitter, plasterer, plumber, printing press operator, roofer, trades helper, upholsterer, welder, etc. Classified titles may be used where needed to track on-call/temporary staff with licensure/certification requirements. Term: Temps can work nine (9) month terms with a week break in service in between. On-Call allowed to work 1039 hours in any twelve (12) month period.
Unit Position Summary
The MSU Broad Art Museum is seeking a Museum Exhibitions Trades Aide to join the Preparation team. The Aide will assist with the execution of exhibitions. This individual will assist in preparing exhibition spaces, installing/striking permanent and changing exhibitions, preparing art objects and crates for shipment and storage, and fabricating exhibition components.
- Assist with the preparation of exhibition spaces- including minor repairs, patching, painting, and cleaning of gallery walls, floors, and display
- Prepare artwork to ensure it is presented properly and safely
- Mat and frame artwork according to archival standards for methods, materials, and proper presentation
- Establish correct lighting in the galleries
- Set up and troubleshoot AV equipment and other technology
- Prepare art objects and crates for shipment and storage
- Design and fabricate mounts and other specialty exhibition components as necessary
- Monitor workflow and report back to supervisor
- Assist students as necessary on the proper handling, presentation, and shipping of artwork
- Help to maintain organized workspaces
- Other general assistance with the installation and strike of exhibitions as directed
Desired Qualifications
- Knowledge equivalent to that which would normally be acquired through completion of a four-year college degree program in studio art and/or museum studies program
- 2-3 years of experience working as an art handler/installer in a museum, gallery, or foundation
- Basic carpentry and fabrication skills
- Knowledge of the selection and use of personal safety equipment
- Knowledge of museum standards regarding the proper care and handling of objects
- Excellent organizational skills
- Excellent communication skills (verbal, written, and visual)
- A solutions-oriented, creative problem solver and team player
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.
Required Application Materials
- Resume
- Cover Letter
- 3 References (Name and email)
- Portfolio (optional)
Work Hours
STANDARD 8-5
Website
BROADMUSEUM.MSU.EDU
Summary of Health Risks
Working conditions involve environments with periodic dust, dirt, and paint finishes; working on scaffolding, ladders and lifts.
Summary of Physical Demands
Ability to climb ladders and scaffolding, use powered lifts, lift up to 50lbs , stand for extended periods of time, use eyes and hands to carefully examine and handle delicate objects
