Art Handler

The Art Handler, reporting to the Lead Art Handler, joins a growing Archives/Registrar team as The Studio Museum in Harlem prepares to open in its new building. The position will assist with organization, location data entry, unpacking/packing for various viewing requests, and unframing/reframing artwork. The Art Handler works collaboratively with Curatorial, Collection, and Exhibition Management on duties assigned.

 

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Track artwork locations
  • Move boxes, crates, framed works, and paintings as needed
  • Unpack and repack artwork of all types
  • Build new soft archival housing as directed—boxes and portfolios
  • Attach backing boards and installation hardware to paintings and framed work as needed
  • Install and deinstall artwork for photography, conservation review, and exhibition as required
  • Unframe and reframe artwork for photography
  • Rig artwork as needed—hoists, gantry, forklifts
  • Paint touch-ups as needed
  • Other duties as assigned

 

Key Stakeholders (who this position will interact with regularly):

Internal:

  • Director of Collection and Exhibitions
  • Director of Facilities and Security
  • Registrar
  • Curator of Permanent Collection
  • Curatorial Assistants
  • Fellows
  • Archivist
  • Retail Associates

 

External:

  • ARCIS building staff
  • Contract photographers and conservators

 

Travel Requirements:    ☐ Yes   ☒ No

Percent travel required: > 50%

 

Physical Demands: ☒ Yes   ☐ No

Must be able to be on feet for long periods of time in cool conditions and artificial light

  • Lift 50 to 100 lbs
  • Ability to use small tools
  • Ability to stand on ladders, reach up high and low 
  • Work for long periods in a climatized environment 

 

 

Qualifications & Work Experience:

Required:

  • Must be a high school graduate
  • Three to five years museum or gallery experience

 

Desirable:

  • BA or BFA degree
  • Interest in history, particularly African American history and or mid-century to contemporary art history

 

Competencies (Key Behaviors & Abilities Essential to Perform the Job):

Required:

  • Commitment (Core Value) — To the mission and values of The Studio Museum in Harlem.
  • Collaborative (Core Value) – Works well with others at all levels of the organization, as well as with key external stakeholders (if applicable to the role)
  • Demonstrable interest in furthering the scholarship around artists supported by our mission
  • Communicates in a professional manner

 

Desirable:

  • Creative thinker and problem solver
  • Team player

 

Salary:

$33 per hour.

Employer Responsibility:

The Studio Museum in Harlem is an equal opportunity employer and considers all candidates for employment regardless of race, color, sex, age, gender identification, national origin, creed, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or political affiliation. We celebrate our inclusive work environment and encourage folks of all backgrounds and perspectives to apply. At The Studio Museum in Harlem, we are committed to having an inclusive and transparent environment where every voice is heard and acknowledged. We embrace our differences and know that our diverse team is a strength that drives our success. The Studio Museum is requiring proof of Covid-19 vaccination for employment. In order to be eligible, participants must show proof of vaccination and a form of personal ID.  

 

Application:

Send your resume and cover letter to jobs@studiomuseum.org. Include "Art Handler" in the subject line. 

Please note that while careful consideration will be given to each submission, the Museum will only be able to contact those applicants whose knowledge, skills, and work experience best fit the requirements of the position. 

Research shows that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that an applicant meets 100% of the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if much of this job description describes you, then you are highly encouraged to apply for this role.