Salary Range: 29.79 to 29.79 (Currency: USD) (Pay period: per-hour-wage)
Schedule: On-Call, fully onsite
Under supervision of the Fabrication Shop Supervisor, and exhibiting safe fabrication practices, as well as institutional standards, the Preparator I, Fabrication Shop is responsible for constructing and finishing of casework and display methods pertaining to SFMOMA’s Collection and Exhibitions Programs. This position reports to the Gallery Infrastructure & Fabrication Manager.
The position works collaboratively with other museum departments in the construction of exhibitions design pertaining to SFMOMA’s Program.
Position success after 30 days is defined by a familiarity with the fabrication shop facility and integration with the broader fabrication team. After the first quarter, position success is defined by steady contribution to project goals and general organization of daily work. At one year, position success is defined by a full understanding of institutional standards, significant contributions to project goals, maintenance & improvement planning, and leading tool trainings.
Responsibilities & Duties
- Execute fabrication requests related to the installation and display of exhibitions and works of art under the direction of Gallery Infrastructure & Fabrication Manager and/or supervision of Lead Preparator, Fabrication Shop, or Preparator II, Fabrication Shop.
- Paint and/or construct casework, pedestals, displays, fixtures, mounts, and other finished structures related to the installation and display of exhibitions and works of art.
- Assist in maintenance of fabrication shop according to maintenance schedule at all SFMOMA fabrication facilities.
- Foster a team environment and actively contribute within the team framework of the department. Follow proper procedures and protocols with regard to upkeep of the shop.
- Demonstrate best practice standards in regard to fabrication skills and finishing techniques
- Safely and securely transport materials and casework/displays throughout the museum and ensure that gallery and work areas are well maintained.
- Perform other related duties as required.
Qualifications & Skills
- Bachelors Degree or Trade Certification, or equivalent combination of training and experience. Knowledge of modern and contemporary art desirable. Art Museum experience strongly preferred.
- Minimum of one (1) year’s related experience.
- Ability to read and interpret fabrication drawings, follow plans, and execute complex fabrication projects for a wide variety of applications.
- Ability to work in effective and efficient manner with regard to time and materials.
- Demonstrated concern for detail, accuracy, and efficiency in the execution of projects.
- Demonstrate safe wood and metal shop practices with all fabrication shop equipment including both stationary and portable power tools.
- Ability to guide others in the safe use of the fabrication shop and equipment. Knowledge of safety precautions and procedures related to the handling of solvents, adhesives and other fabrication related solutions.
- Ability to demonstrate and foster good stewardship in regard to the upkeep of the fabrication spaces and to the museum’s waste handling and recycling practices.
- Ability to work cooperatively with supervisors, museum staff, students, outside clients, vendors, volunteers, and the public.
- Strong communication skills.
Working Conditions
- Medium lifting, up to 50 pounds.
- Frequent exposure to a Construction/Jobsite environment, including wood dust, paint fumes, and other environmental hazards. Personal protective equipment is supplied when mandated.
Job posting open date: 7/15/24
All jobs posted will remain open for at least five business days.
We encourage both internal and external candidates to apply within the initial open posting period as the application close date may or may not be extended beyond that initial period. Applications will not be accepted after a posting has been closed.