Gallery Assistant (Guard)

Job Posting Title:

Gallery Assistant (Guard)

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Hiring Department:

Jack S Blanton Museum of Art

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Position Open To:

All Applicants

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Weekly Scheduled Hours:

40

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FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt

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Earliest Start Date:

Immediately

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Position Duration:

Expected to Continue

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Location:

UT MAIN CAMPUS

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Job Details:

General Notes

The Blanton Museum of Art at the University of Texas at Austin is known for its bold vision, from a dynamic reinstallation of the collection galleries in 2017, to the opening of Ellsworth Kelly’s monumental work of art, Austin, in 2018, and redesign of its grounds by Snøhetta in 2023, and the exhibitions and educational programs that define the museum’s role in the community.

There is even more to come for the Blanton and the thousands of school and university students and visitors we serve.  With a proven track record as a museum that is deeply relevant, and where education is embedded into everything we do, we have put The University of Texas at Austin, and the city of Austin, on the forefront of the visual arts.

Benefits eligible Blanton Museum of Art staff enjoy the same competitive benefits, programs and services available to the University of Texas at Austin employees.  Blanton staff also have access to complimentary admission to the museum, selected museum events, and a 20% discount at the Museum Store. 

The Blanton is home to a vast array of roles matching a wide range of interests and talents.  No matter the staff position at the Blanton, all contribute to the preservation of culture and history for the entire community.  We invite you to view and apply for this professional opportunity.

Purpose

The purpose of this position is to protect the University’s collections and property, safeguard visitors and staff, ultimately ensuring a safe and pleasant visitor experience.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the safety and security of the Blanton by monitoring and protecting the collection, visitors, galleries, and grounds. Provide clear guidance, direction, and information to ensure all visitors have a positive experience and adhere to museum policies.

• Provide excellent customer service and maintain a courteous and friendly manner. 

• Provide knowledge of museum exhibitions, events, and the surrounding area to visitors. 

• Serve as initial responder in the event of an emergency, know evacuation procedures and routes, and contacting a supervisor when appropriate. Act in a calm and decisive manner when assisting in the evacuation of the public and staff from the building, during fire alarms or other emergencies. 

• Perform interior patrols of museum galleries during museum public hours and maintain order in assigned areas, including monitoring access and egress points of the building, and addressing inappropriate visitor behavior in a confident, calm, and courteous manner. 

• Follow security procedures to assist in the opening and closing of the museum and assist in the activation and deactivation of some artworks. 

• Report any missing, damaged objects, or unusual conditions to supervisors. Report any irregularities pertaining to building operations, safety or fire hazards during patrol of premises. 

• Document and report observed physical interactions with works of art by visitors. 

• Actively participate in training programs to improve knowledge of the museum, security best practices, and customer service skills.

Required Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED

• At least one year of previous experience in a museum or other cultural organization

• Must enjoy working with the public

• Excellent verbal, written communication, and interpersonal skills

• Promotes collaborative climate

• Ability to deal calmly with a wide variety of people in varying, often stressful circumstances

• Ability to calmly organize and effectively direct in emergency situations

• Ability to work effectively within a team

• Ability to multitask and prioritize duties within the galleries

• Demonstrated professional demeanor and personal initiative

• Must be able to walk and stand for several hours at a time

• Occasional overtime to be worked with little to no advance notice

• Schedule for position is Tuesday through Saturday; working holidays is a must.

Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree

• Educational background or interest in the visual arts, history, or cultural and historic pr