Art Handler, Part Time

Position Summary :
Working under the supervision of the Manager of Gallery Facilities & Public Art, the part time art handler works on all physical aspects of gallery exhibitions, events, and public art projects, tasks include movement, installation, de-installation, packing and un-packing, storage of objects, and maintenance of gallery spaces and storage areas. The part-time Art Handler works closely with full-time staff to implement the artistic vision for the Visual Arts, ensuring aesthetic and operational integrity for each project.

Knowledge, Skills & Experience Required :
Education : Associate or bachelor's degree preferred.
Work Experience : 1-3 years professional art handling experience and exhibition installation required. Experience in construction, framing, , fabrication, carpentry, or A/V Installation preferred. Ability to tend to progressive responsibilities working with and handling high-value objects in a variety of media.
Supervisory Experience : No prior supervisory experience required.
Technical Skills : Understanding of professional art installation techniques, drywall, and painting including basic woodworking and knowledge of hand and power tools is required. Ability to measure and layout objects accurately. Must have good dexterity, hand eye coordination, and the ability to climb and to work on ladders for extended periods of time and to reach work with hands above shoulder level. Employee must be able to lift heavy objects (50lbs) and stand or walk for an eight-hour workday.
Intangibles : Excellent attention to detail, problem-solver, and team player. Flexible and adept at addressing changing priorities and issues in the moment. Able to understand and implement the artistic vision. Strong communication skills when interacting with both artists and installers. Willingness to learn new skills. Understanding the order of importance when handling responsibilities onsite during exhibition installation. A good sense of judgement and independence but isn’t afraid to ask questions.

Essential Functions :
Main job responsibilities :

• Assists with the installation and deinstallation of exhibitions and public art installations. Moves, hands, and positions exhibition casework and work of art of varying sizes, media, and fragility in such fashion as to ensure maximum security and safety.
• Using proper carts and supplies, moves objects in galleries, storage, and preparation areas as directed.
• Wraps and packs artwork with materials as directed.
• Performs routine maintenance such as cleaning, dusting, and removing smudges from walls and cases.
• Mounts and attaches hanging hardware and installs exhibition signage and labels
• Operates equipment and tools in safe and proper manner.
• Shares responsibility for maintaining safe, clean, and orderly work and storage areas.
• Works professionally and cooperatively with all installation personnel and other employees, contractors, artists, and guest curators.
• Adhere to project timelines set by supervisor and Exhibition Coordinator.
• Perform set up for events and programs
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Supervisory responsibility : This position does not have direct supervisory responsibility.
Decision-making responsibility : The Art Handler works under the direction and supervision of the Manager of Galleries and Public Art.
Budgetary responsibility : This position does not have budgetary responsibility.
Strategic responsibility : The Art Handler does not have strategic responsibility.
Reporting requirements : This position may provide or assistance with condition reports and project timeline updates.
Travel requirements : Limited travel (less than 5%) is required for this position.
Physical demands : This position involves frequent lifting and walking/standing for extended periods of time. The Art Handler should be able to walk stairs regularly and lift installation materials that could weigh up to 50 lbs.

Starting Rate: $18/hour

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are considered for employment without attention to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, national origin, veteran or disability status.
Employees are expected to be able to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of this position, with or without job modification/reasonable accommodation. If an employee believes a job modification/reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact Human Resources so that a review can be conducted. The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust strives to comply with the accommodation provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, and other related federal, state, and local laws.