On-Call Preparator

WCMA is seeking skilled on-call contributors to the art preparation team. The on-call preparator may assist in all aspects of object care for temporary exhibitions and in the maintenance of the permanent collection. The preparator will be familiar with and adhere to current professional standards for collection management and the archival care of art objects both on display and in storage. They should be familiar with certain aspects of gallery installation including matting and framing, light carpentry, display fabrication, mount making and/or lighting. The preparator must also be familiar with current digital technologies used in exhibitions including those required for video, film, and sound installations. The preparator will maintain clean, efficient, and organized storage areas and workspaces. Proactive day-to-day initiative, and creative problem solving are essential to this position, as well as a knowledge of current best practices in art handling, collections care,, and installation. Williams is committed to enriching its educational experience and its culture through the diversity of its staff. The successful candidate will excel at working in a community that is broadly diverse with regard to race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, gender, nationality, sexual orientation, and religion. Applicants should highlight relevant experience working with and supporting a broadly diverse employee community. Primary Duties and Responsibilities: Install and de-install exhibitions Pack and unpack artwork from the permanent collection and on loan from other institutions Safely move art through museum collection spaces and galleries. Prepare gallery spaces for exhibitions: light carpentry; fabrication of display furniture; wall preparation and painting Light galleries in consultation with chief preparator. Fabricate exhibition furniture, crates and temporary exhibition features. Maintain general upkeep of the museum galleries and collection spaces. Qualifications: Ability to do physical work including carpentry, interior painting, lifting more than 50 lbs. standing for extended periods of time, moving objects, and working at heights. Flexibility, creativity, and a willingness to work collaboratively to bring the concepts of curators and artists to fruition. Experience with handling artwork in a museum setting preferred. Experience with gallery lighting, digital media technologies, and a familiarity with a range of audio-visual equipment and appropriate methods of installation also preferred. Employment at Williams is contingent on the verification of background information submitted by the applicant, including the completion of a criminal record check, and education when applicable. Decisions regarding appointments, promotions, and conditions of employment comply with applicable federal or state law prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, ancestry, or military service. Beyond meeting fully its legal obligations for non-discrimination, Williams College is committed to building a diverse and inclusive community where members from all backgrounds can live, learn and thrive. As part of this commitment, we will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process please feel free to contact us via phone at (413) 597-2681 or email at [email protected]. Instructions for Applicants The mission of Williams College, “to provide the highest quality liberal arts education,” is advanced by the rich variety of backgrounds and experiences that faculty, staff, and students bring to the work that we do together. The college is committed to building and sustaining a learning and working environment where members from all backgrounds can learn, live, and thrive. We are deeply committed to our employees, providing tuition assistance, excellent benefits, and a warm and welcoming professional environment. We are looking for candidates who share our values in prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion, and sustainability. Located in the Berkshires of western Massachusetts, Williams offers a rich academic environment in a beautiful setting. The Berkshires—known as a cultural corridor—are a great place to live, work, and play. With natural beauty, rich history, and top-notch schools, there Berkshires hosts an array of recreational opportunities from world-class museums to hiking trails. The New York Capital Region, Albany International Airport, and Albany-Rensselaer Amtrak Train Station are just an hour away, and Boston and New York City are within a three-hour drive. The college’s vibrant 450-acre campus is home to approximately 2,000 students who bring vibrancy to picturesque Williamstown. Many people relocate here for their job at Williams but stay for the community connections that they build. We hope you’ll take some time to explore the resources here and get to know more about our community–the one here on campus as well as the broader communities of Williamstown and the Berkshires.