About Our Organization

Founded in 1968, the Studio Museum in Harlem is the nexus for artists of African descent locally, nationally, and internationally and for work that has been inspired and influenced by Black culture. It is a site for the dynamic exchange of ideas about art and society.

Job Summary

The Art Handler is a key member of the growing Collections and Exhibitions team at The Studio Museum in Harlem. Reporting to the Head Preparator, this position is responsible for the safe handling, installation, and deinstallation of artworks to support exhibitions, collection viewings, photography sessions, and other museum initiatives. The Art Handler also assists with packing, unpacking, condition reporting, and maintaining organized storage spaces. This role requires close collaboration with the Registrar, Curatorial, and Preparator teams, as well as freelance installers. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

• Safely install and deinstall artworks for exhibitions, viewings, photography, and conservation review. 
• Prepare galleries for exhibition display, including cleaning, painting, spackling, and staging. 
• Coordinate daily tasks with the Head Preparator, Registrar, and Curatorial teams, ensuring clear communication and timely completion of projects. 
• Conduct routine exhibition maintenance, including daily gallery checks, lighting checks, etc 
• Maintain organized, clean, and safe art storage areas. Conduct and maintain regular pest prevention plan. Assist with annual inventory of art storage.  
• Assist with packing and unpacking, incoming and outgoing artworks.  
• Fabricate soft archival housing (e.g., boxes, portfolios) and prepare backing boards or installation hardware for framed works. 
• Support rigging operations (e.g., hoists, gantry, forklifts) for the safe movement of large or heavy works. 
• Track artwork locations and maintain accurate inventory in the museum database. 
• Oversee loading dock activity related to artwork movement, at museum and art   storage. 
• Move and handle boxes, crates, framed works, and large-scale paintings as required. 
• Perform additional tasks and special projects as assigned. 
• Point person for freelancers when Head Preparator is away from space. 

Skills and Qualifications  

• Proven experience in safe handling of valuable artworks and objects. 
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. 
• Flexible, adaptable, and able to manage shifting priorities in a fast-paced setting. 
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills. 
• Proficiency with hand tools and power tools, and adherence to safety protocols and best practices for art handling and installation. 

Education and Experience 

• High school diploma or equivalent required. 
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in museum, gallery, or related art handling work. 

Physical Demands 

• Ability to lift 50–100 lbs safely. 
• Comfortable working on ladders, reaching overhead or low to the ground. 
• Prolonged periods of standing and working in climate-controlled environments. 

Work Environment 

• This position is considered an hourly position for purposes of federal wage and hour law, which means that you will be eligible for overtime pay for hours in excess of 40 in a given workweek. 
• Fast-paced environment with varying levels of guests and employees present. 
• Building Accessibility – office locations are wheelchair accessible, with elevators in the building. Other accessibility accommodations can be further discussed. 

Compensation

$36 per hour

Salary is commensurate with experience within the guidelines of a small not-for-profit. A competitive benefits package is provided, including medical, dental, life and long-term disability insurance, a retirement account, and substantial vacation time.

Application Instructions

Please upload your resume and a cover letter to your application. No phone calls or emails, please.  

Please note that while careful consideration will be given to each submission, only a select number of applicants will be contacted due to the volume of interest.

The Studio Museum in Harlem is an equal opportunity employer and considers all candidates for employment regardless of race, color, sex, age, gender identification, national origin, creed, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or political affiliation. We celebrate our inclusive work environment and encourage folks of all backgrounds and perspectives to apply. At the Studio Museum, we are committed to having an inclusive and transparent environment where every voice is heard and acknowledged. We embrace our differences, and know that our diverse team is a strength that drives our success.  

Research shows that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that an applicant meets 100% of the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if much of this job description describes you, then you are highly encouraged to apply for this role.