Preparator

Job Description

Job Description

TITLE : Preparator

STATUS : Temporary (12th International Exhibition)

REPORTS : Lead Preparator

DATE : March 15 – June 30, 2025

GUIDED BY ARTISTS, ROOTED IN NEW MEXICO, SITE SANTA FE CELEBRATES

CONTEMPORARY CREATIVE EXPRESSION.

SITE SANTA FE is a non-profit contemporary arts organization based in Santa Fe, New

Mexico. Since its founding in 1995, SITE SANTA FE has presented 11 International biennials,

more than 90 contemporary art exhibitions, and works by hundreds of emerging and

established artists from around the world. SITE SANTA FE also presents public and

educational programs that include conversations with artists and curators, film screenings,

performances, concerts, hands-on workshops, and collaborations with Santa Fe Public

Schools.

SITE SANTA FE is an equal-opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion

in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color,

gender, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy,

or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

SITE SANTA FE's 12th International exhibition, Once Within a Time, curated by Cecilia

Alemani, invites contemporary artists to respond to and engage with the lived experiences of a

pantheon of figures from New Mexico’s rich and multilayered history. Taking its title from the

most recent film by legendary experimental filmmaker and long-time Santa Fe resident Godfrey

Reggio, the 12th International revolves around the life stories of a vibrant collection of

figures—both current and historical, real and imagined—with ties to the region.

Summary

SITE SANTA FE is hiring Preparators to support the 12th International Exhibition. Preparators

support and assist all aspects of art and exhibition space preparation, installation, and de-

installation. The Preparator demonstrates a solid foundation of skills that are emblematic of the

industry, gained from employment at other fine art museums, cultural institutions, commercial

galleries, design / build firms, or through artist assistant positions. Responsibilities include

experienced art-handling, audio-visual / sound, and fabrication skills with demonstrated

proficiency in at least one of those areas. Preparators assist in complex installation or de-

installation projects. They have excellent communication skills and the ability to listen to,

comprehend, and execute tasks in a timely and effective way.

Art Handling and Installation

• Perform and assist with the unpacking / packing, condition reporting, preparation, and

installation / de-installation of artwork.

Artists, or Conservators.

and loading dock (including the safe and secure loading / unloading of vehicles) in

coordination with the Lead Preparator Associate Registrar and Curatorial Assistant.

and assigned.

Fabrication

objects.

vitrines, exhibition furniture, and one-of-a-kind artist-driven constructions, among other

projects.

compound miter saws and abrasion disc chop saws, light-duty routers, and angle grinders.

specialty bits and anchors, etc.

custom hardware, etc.

industry standards.

curtains, etc.

Audio Visual / Sound

equipment from the A / V inventory.

visual environments by preparing surfaces to project on, securing ceiling / wall-mounted

projectors, calibrating projections via laser leveling / lens shifting, connecting speakers and

amplifiers, executing cable / cord management with an emphasis on discreet / subtle

placement, fabricating custom cables / cords / adapters, etc.

audio-visual artwork.

Qualifications

1. At least 3 years minimum of experience as a preparator in a museum, art gallery or

other cultural institution, or other equivalent art handling and installation experience.

Construction, metal fabrication, and design skills are a plus.

2. Must be a self-starter and creative problem solver. Be able to work independently and

efficiently.

3. Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate well.

4. Ability to work collaboratively with staff and maintain a high degree of professionalism in

a dynamic and creative setting. Ability to take directives and change tasks when

required.

5. The ability to lift 50 pounds regularly.

6. Embrace SITE SANTA FE’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.