Installation Assistant - LPA Shelby Cullom Davis Museum (P/T)

Department: Research Libraries

Employment Type: Seasonal - Part Time

Location: Library for the Performing Arts

Reporting To: Caitlin Whittington

Compensation: $35.00 / hour

Description

Overview
The Exhibition Installation Assistant will be part of a team that develops, organizes, implements, and executes all aspects relating to the presentation of exhibitions and displays at The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts (LPA) at Lincoln Center. Exhibitions are the most direct reflection of the Library’s rich archival collections of dance, theatre, music and recorded sound. By their very nature, exhibitions tell stories, serve as catalysts for ideas, and encourage new ways of thinking and learning. While providing insights into the collections, exhibitions serve to confirm NYPL’s ability to make accessible the most important intellectual, historic, literary, and artistic ideas created.

Responsibilities

• Installs and deinstalls exhibition objects for all exhibitions and special displays 
• Prepares galleries for installation—including but not limited to case movement, cleaning, painting, spackling, fabric wrapping case interiors and/or wall panels
• Moves all necessary tools, hardware, installation materials, hydraulic lifter, work tables, blankets, case lifters, ladders, work carts, tool boxes, bins, lights, light canisters, audio-visual equipment, stanchions, pedestals, cases, bonnets, brochure holders, acrylic holders, object mounts, and fabric, pylons, etc. with regard to the installation and deinstallation of all exhibitions
• Operates shop machinery, including hand and power tools and work carts, as necessary
• Frames artwork, prints, photographs, documents, and ephemera—in conformity with established conservation specifications
• Performs carpentry for exhibitions and exhibition areas including demolition, wall repair, painting and fabric wrapping
• Fabricates and constructs exhibition components including pedestals, platforms, bases, vitrines, as needed
• Makes, dry mounts and places labels
• Positions and installs graphic elements
• Position and focus lights and adjust light levels with Conservator and/or Curator
• Maintains an organized and clean working environment
• Works with Supervising Museum Maintainer as necessary regarding production elements including measurements, materials, fabrication methods, and lighting
• Performs related duties, as required

Required Education, Experience & Skills

Required Education & Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in art related field or equivalent level of education/experience 

Required Experience

• 3-5 years relevant experience in museum or gallery; or an equivalent combination of education and work experience

Required Skills

• Successfully demonstrated experience with artifact handling, exhibition installation techniques, mount making, and framing
• Ability to interpret and follow detailed instructions with speed and accuracy
• Working familiarity with basic hand and power tools
• Successfully demonstrated knowledge of machinery, materials, methods, practices and safety precautions, construction, exhibition installation and deinstallation, preferably in a museum setting
• Ability to operate and work from scissor lifts (up to 30’ high) scaffolding and ladders
• Basic knowledge of museum lighting
• Basic knowledge of electrical practice, electronics, and mechanical installations
• Demonstrated knowledge of museum standards and practices
• Demonstrated ability to work tactfully and effectively with staff, outside art handlers, exhibition fabricators, graphic installers, contractors, designers, curators and public at all levels in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment
• Strong initiative and work ethic with flexibility to respond to and take action in changing circumstances, often under pressure
• High attention to detail
• Ability to take direction and work in a team environment
• Excellent organizational, communication, and comprehension skills
• Demonstrated ability working in Word, Excel, and Google Drive

Managerial/Supervisory Responsibilities

• N/A

More...

Core Values
All team members are expected and encouraged to embody the NYPL Core Values:

• Be Helpful to patrons and colleagues
• Be Resourceful in solving problems 
• Be Curious in all aspects of your work