The New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) seeks an experienced, full-time Chief Preparator. The Chief Preparator is responsible for handling all aspects of preparation, installation, and maintenance of the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA)’s permanent collection and special exhibitions. The incumbent in this position is also responsible for supervising assigned staff and contract preparators and exhibition personnel.  

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Schedules and supervises NOMA’s staff preparators as well as contract art handlers collaboratively with the Head Registrar.
• Works with various staff, to ensure timely project completion 
• Participates in and is responsible for the overall preparation, installation, and maintenance of NOMA’s collection, galleries, special exhibitions and art storage areas.
• Assists with handling, moving, packing/crating, and shipping of artwork and exhibitions 
• Oversees and works with the preparator team to organize, inventory, and maintain all preparatory spaces including the workshop, matting & framing area, packing and art storage 
• Maintains, inventories, orders, and processes the associated paperwork for tools, supplies and equipment. 
• Acts in the capacity of NOMA representative on assigned courier trips, and local pickups
• Implements safe art handling procedures
• Reports any damage or condition issues to Head Registrar and conservator
• Ensures the security of artwork and museum facilities for hurricanes /natural disasters as part of the Emergency Response Team.
• Monitors and maintains the condition and appearance of exhibits and permanent collection galleries. 
• Participates in gallery wall moving, placement of end caps and baseboards
• Prepares and maintains exhibition casework, blocks, and mounts
• Assists conservator and staff with cleaning the Sculpture Garden sculptures when needed
• Other duties as assigned

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

•  Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts or a closely related field from an accredited university or equivalent work experience and six years of museum/gallery experience.
• Experience and knowledge of art handling 
• Experience supervising two or more people

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of best practices in moving, archival storage, transportation to and from museum facilities and lenders
• Good time management, problem solving abilities and group organizational skills
• General knowledge of carpentry, including using power tools and specialized tools within the Museum setting

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Sitting or standing for long periods of time, walking, typing, talking, hearing and visual activity
• Ability to lift up to 20 pounds on occasion
• Accommodation may be made for some of these physical demands for otherwise qualified individuals who require and request such accommodation.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Office environment, special events, front desk and offsite