Job Information
The New York Public Library Installation Assistant - LPA Shelby Cullom Davis Museum (P/T) in New York, New York
Installation Assistant - LPA Shelby Cullom Davis Museum (P/T)
Department: Research Libraries
Employment Type: Seasonal - Part Time
Location: Library for the Performing Arts
Reporting To: Caitlin Whittington
Compensation: $37.50 / hour
Description
Overview
The Exhibition Installation Assistant will be part of a team that develops, organizes, implements, and executes all aspects relating to the presentation of exhibitions and displays at The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts (LPA) at Lincoln Center. Exhibitions are the most direct reflection of the Library’s rich archival collections of dance, theatre, music and recorded sound. By their very nature, exhibitions tell stories, serve as catalysts for ideas, and encourage new ways of thinking and learning. While providing insights into the collections, exhibitions serve to confirm NYPL’s ability to make accessible the most important intellectual, historic, literary, and artistic ideas created.
Responsibilities
Installs and deinstalls exhibition objects for all exhibitions and special displays
Prepares galleries for installation—including but not limited to case movement, cleaning, painting, spackling, fabric wrapping case interiors and/or wall panels
Moves all necessary tools, hardware, installation materials, hydraulic lifter, work tables, blankets, case lifters, ladders, work carts, tool boxes, bins, lights, light canisters, audio-visual equipment, stanchions, pedestals, cases, bonnets, brochure holders, acrylic holders, object mounts, and fabric, pylons, etc. with regard to the installation and deinstallation of all exhibitions
Operates shop machinery, including hand and power tools and work carts, as necessary
Frames artwork, prints, photographs, documents, and ephemera—in conformity with established conservation specifications
Performs carpentry for exhibitions and exhibition areas including demolition, wall repair, painting and fabric wrapping
Fabricates and constructs exhibition components including pedestals, platforms, bases, vitrines, as needed
Makes, dry mounts and places labels
Positions and installs graphic elements
Position and focus lights and adjust light levels with Conservator and/or Curator
Maintains an organized and clean working environment
Works with Supervising Museum Maintainer as necessary regarding production elements including measurements, materials, fabrication methods, and lighting
Performs related duties, as required
Required Education, Experience & Skills
Required Education & Certifications
- Bachelor’s degree in art related field or equivalent level of education/experience
Required Experience
- 3-5 years relevant experience in museum or gallery; or an equivalent combination of education and work experience
Required Skills
Successfully demonstrated experience with artifact handling, exhibition installation techniques, mount making, and framing
Ability to interpret and follow detailed instructions with speed and accuracy
Working familiarity with basic hand and power tools
Successfully demonstrated knowledge of machinery, materials, methods, practices and safety precautions, construction, exhibition installation and deinstallation, preferably in a museum setting
Ability to operate and work from scissor lifts (up to 30’ high) scaffolding and ladders
Basic knowledge of museum lighting
Basic knowledge of electrical practice, electronics, and mechanical installations
Demonstrated knowledge of museum standards and practices
Demonstrated ability to work tactfully and effectively with staff, outside art handlers, exhibition fabricators, graphic installers, contractors, designers, curators and public at all levels in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment
Strong initiative and work ethic with flexibility to respond to and take action in changing circumstances, often under pressure
High attention to detail
Ability to take direction and work in a team environment
Excellent organizational, communication, and comprehension skills
Demonstrated ability working in Word, Excel, and Google Drive
Managerial/Supervisory Responsibilities
- N/A
More...
Core Values
All team members are expected and encouraged to embody the NYPL Core Values:
Be Helpful to patrons and colleagues
Be Resourceful in solving problems
Be Curious in all aspects of your work
Be Welcoming and Inclusive
Work Environment
Office setting
Museum/Gallery setting
Public library setting
Physical Duties
Physical effort is required, including bending, pushing, pulling, lifting, and carrying
Lifting up to 50 lbs. required
Must be comfortable working at heights
May require travel within NYC
Pre-Placement Physical Required?
Yes
Union/Non Union
Non-Union
FLSA Status
Non-Exempt
Schedule
- Between 9:00 am - 6:00 pm; on an as-needed basis
This job description represents the types and levels of responsibilities that will be required of the position and shall not be construed as a declaration of all of the specific duties and responsibilities for the role. Job duties may change if Library priorities change. Employees may be directed to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description as needed.
The New York Public Library Salary Statement
At the Library, we believe that pay transparency and pay equity are important to ensuring we source the best candidates and keep the best employees. When making a determination as to the appropriate salary for a candidate, we consider a variety of factors such, including, but not limited to, the position requirements, the skills, prior experience, and educational background required or preferred for the job, the scope and impact of the role within the organization, internal peer equity, and the candidate's specific training, experience, education level, and skills. No single factor is conclusive; the Library reserves the right to consider any and all relevant factors and make a decision consistent with its policies.
Union Salaries are determined by collective bargaining agreement(s).