Part Time Art Handler

The Institute for Contemporary Art at VCU invites applications for the position of part-time, on-call Art Handler.

Art Handlers/Installers assist with delivery/receiving and installation/deinstallation of artworks and preparation and maintenance of exhibition spaces. Responsibilities may also include: construction of exhibition furniture and crates; packing and fitting crates, and assistance with inventory control and maintenance of tools and equipment.

The Art Handlers/Installers generally work during the 8-12 week installation and deinstallation periods between the ICA's two synchronized exhibition cycles, with other hours as required. Art Handers/Installers report to and are under the supervision of the ICA's Chief Preparator & Exhibition Designer and work closely with and provide support and assistance to Registrar.

Job Responsibilities

• Prepare and organize tools and equipment required for installation and deinstallation

• Assist in the inventory maintenance of consumable exhibition materials

• Assist with incoming and outgoing art and equipment shipments

• Prepare gallery spaces for exhibition, including: wall repair and painting

• Assist in the construction and preparation of art installations, exhibition furniture, crates and packaging

• Handle, move, place and prepare art objects

• Assist artists who are on-site for installation/deinstallation

• Assist with the installation of A/V equipment, including speakers, monitors, and projectors

• Assist with lighting of gallery spaces

• Install labels, signage and other didactic materials

• Other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

• 2-3 years experience with hands-on installation and deinstallation of complex and preferably contemporary Art installations

• Demonstrated knowledge of and experience with museum best practices for object care and handling, packing and moving of artworks, and appropriate display techniques

• Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills

• Demonstrated experience working with exhibitions teams

• Good organizational and time management skills

• Ability to work in physically demanding situations, including heavy lifting up to 50 pounds and working at heights

• Flexibility to work nights and weekends

Preferred Qualifications

• Valid driver's license

• Proficiency in carpentry, fabrication and production

• Demonstrated experience with workshop skills and safety, including using hand and power tools

• Demonstrated experience with/licensure in the use of: forklifts, scissor lifts, scaffolding, and rigging

• A/V installation and troubleshooting experience