Preparator/Exhibition Designer

Friday, March 19, 2021 12:00 p.m. 12:00
Friday, April 2, 2021 11:59 p.m. 23:59

Galt Museum & Archives 502 1 Street South Lethbridge, AB, T1J 1Y4 Canada (map)

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A child examines an exhibit display at the Galt Museum & Archives.

Job Brief

The Galt Museum & Archives is currently seeking a permanent Preparator/Exhibition Designer to join our team of professionals

(Permanent, full-time; 75 hours bi-weekly)

The City of Lethbridge ( www.lethbridge.ca ) proudly acknowledges that we are located at the heart of Siksikaitsitapi (Blackfoot) Territory, home of Kainai, Piikani, Siksika and Amskapi Piikani (Montana, USA) First Nations. Lethbridge is also located within the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region III.

The Galt Museum & Archives, is currently seeking a permanent Preparator/Exhibition Designer to join our team of professionals. This position is actively involved with the exhibitions that are part of the Museum’s programs and services -- from the planning and design stages, through to construction, installation, maintenance, and storage. We are looking for an enthusiastic team member with significant experience and background in Cultural Resource Management, Museum Studies, or Fine Arts; complemented by extensive experience with exhibition design principles, construction techniques, and tools (including audio/visual equipment and software). If you are committed to showcasing exhibits of the highest calibre to our community and providing our customers with engaging and memorable experiences, then this opportunity is for you.

Specific responsibilities will encompass four primary areas:

Collaboration & Planning:

With the exhibition team on requirements for the various themes/concepts of exhibits
Organizing exhibit-related materials related to content, construction, lighting, and audio/visual requirements
Coordinating and facilitating contractor access and work in collaboration with colleagues
Coordinating with guest curators and travelling exhibition partners on installation requirements
Coordinating & scheduling volunteer tasks related to exhibition preparation, installation, and disassembly
Participating in exhibition evaluations

Design:

Creating working plans/drawings/models of exhibits and mounts
Collaborating with colleagues on final design decisions
Troubleshooting exhibition design issues, as they arise

Construction:

Using a variety of construction tools to build exhibits, supporting infrastructure, and space preparation, including saws, drills, biscuit joiners, air compressors, plexiglass heat bars, floor jacks & drymount pressers
Patching, painting, wall-deconstruction, etc.
Installation, tear down & maintenance:
Assembly, disassembly, and storage duties
Unpacking and crating of exhibit contents
Exhibit repairs, when required
Ongoing maintenance of exhibit materials, audio/visual equipment, lighting, etc.

A child uses a monitor installed in an exhibit at the Galt Museum & Archives.

As the preferred candidate, you will have:

Relationship skills that are collaborative and responsive, with a commitment to service excellence and teamwork
Experience working with volunteers, will be an asset
Post-secondary education in Cultural Resource Management, Museum Studies or Fine Arts, complemented by 3 to 5 years of experience in a museum or similar public setting
Extensive experience in exhibition installations
Extensive knowledge of exhibition design principles, techniques and tools (including software)
Extensive experience in artifact, art and/or object handling
Experience in project planning, management, execution and evaluation
Keen attention to detail and quality
Seasoned experience working with a variety of construction and/or building materials & related tools
Basic carpentry and assemblage skills
Knowledge of exhibition lighting principles and Museum standards/guildelines
Excellent organizational skills and the ability to successfully manage and adapt to time-bound priorities
Independent judgement and initiative