The Exhibitions Preparator fabricates exhibitions with the highest level of craftsmanship and maintains them in good working order.
· Fabricate, install, maintain, and revise exhibitions according to design specifications using power tools andhand tools.
· Handle collections, including their transfer to Exhibitions storage, documentation, mount-making, and installation.
· Maintain clean, safe, stocked, and functional production shops.
· Operate aerial work platform.
· Operate forklift.
· Re-lamp and clean permanent and special exhibitions.
· Assist in developing and carrying out policies and procedures for the department, division, and institution as requested.
· Assist other departments with physical emergencies, repairs, and upgrades.
· Other duties as assigned.
Reports To: Production Supervisor
This position requires an individual able to maintain professional and productive working relationships with other Exhibitions staff, Collections, Security, Visitor Services, Housekeeping, and the AV Technician.
Qualifications:
· Must physically qualify to wear a respirator (which also leads to facial hair restrictions).
· Experience with shop tools and their safe use.
· Ability to operate a forklift.
· Ability to operate an aerial lift.
· Familiarity with a broad range of materials and methods used in exhibition production.
· Experience in painting and finishing a variety of media.
· Ability to personally lift or carry exhibition objects and properties weighing up to 50 pounds, and ability to otherwise move and position objects weighing hundreds of pounds.
· Ability to ascend and descend ladders and lifts, as well as work from ladders and lifts when installing, maintaining, or removing exhibits.
· Carpentry and cabinetry experience preferred.
· At least one year in museum exhibition production preferred.
· Valid Driver's License preferred.
· Knowledge of art and artifact handling techniques, a plus.
· Proficiency in Microsoft Office required; skill in Vectorworks and Adobe Creative Suite, a plus.
· Basic metal-working experience, a plus.
· Matting, framing, mount-making and artifact installation experience, a plus.
· Acrylic-working experience, a plus.
· Knowledge of electrical, electronics, or audio-visual technologies, a plus.
Commitment to the mission, values, and programs of the Chicago History Museum.