Art Preparator and Communications Assistant

About Binghamton University

Binghamton University is a premier public R1 research institution in the State University of New York (SUNY) system that unites more than 130 broadly interdisciplinary educational programs with some of the most vibrant research in the nation.

Job Description

Budget Title: Instructional Support Associate (SL-2)

Salary: $41,009 - $42,000 (80% of full-time, 12-month position)

Located at the center of campus, the Binghamton University Art Museum is a dynamic public space where staff and faculty engage students and the wider public through frequent original exhibitions and programming. The Binghamton University Art Museum has a permanent collection of over 5,000 objects selectively acquired over 50 years.

The Art Preparator and Communications Assistant works with fellow museum staff members to execute the mission and vision of the museum. Chief responsibilities include the maintenance and preservation of the collection and museum spaces; the preparation, installation, and de-installation of exhibitions; the careful handling, packing, and transportation of artwork; the performance of modest design tasks, including website changes and design of social media and electronic mailings; schedule and train volunteers and 2-5 interns; create press releases and minor marketing materials; liaison to School of the Arts and BU Senior Director of Media and Public Relations.

Responsibilities include:

• Lead the preparation, installation, and de-installation of exhibitions, including technology, as needed
• Mat, frame and install artwork
• Paint and make minor wall repairs
• Light objects on display
• Unpack objects received at the museum and pack objects to be shipped
• Transport artwork and furniture when needed
• Perform periodic cleaning
• Design and make changes to website, Mailchimp, and social media
• Communicate effectively with fellow museum staff members as well as other departments on campus to complete a variety of tasks
• Schedule, train and supervise volunteers and 2-5 interns (preparator(s), social media, photography, graphic design)
• Transport artwork in large rental vehicle, if necessary
• Primary liaison with campus expeditors, carpenters and outside vendors
• Operate Genie lift
• Manage communications strategy across multiple digital and print platforms
• Create press releases and minor marketing materials
• Initiate and coordinate press interviews
• Liaison to SOAR marketing and BU Senior Director of Media and Public Relations
• Serve as HR liaison for museum's student employees (onboarding, records maintenance)

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Attention to detail and effective use of measurements
• Basic knowledge of hand/power tools (i.e. hammer/drill)
• Ability to operate and maintain a mat-cutter
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to operate and occupy powered lifts and climb ladders up to 8 ft.
• Ability to handle and pack 2-D and 3-D objects with care
• Able to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to complete tasks in a timely and accurate manner to meet deadlines
• Effective communication and organization skills
• Valid driver's license to operate a vehicle in NYS, and ability to travel as needed
• Ability to use design programs such as In-Design, Photoshop, Canva
• Able to maintain web and social media content for the museum; manage content on the website within a content management system (Omni-Update); manage other digital communications, such as Mailchimp.

Requirements:

• Associates degree
• Experience as a preparator
• Experience working in a museum or gallery
• Experience using a design software, such as Photoshop or InDesign
• Able to work occasional evening and weekend hours

Preferred:

• Bachelor's degree
• Experience matting artwork
• Knowledge of art and design or museum studies