Collection Maintenance Technician

Description:

Department: Conservation

Reports to: Objects Conservator

Classification: Non-exempt/hourly, part-time

Compensation: $20.00 per hour

Schedule: Every Tuesday, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Cover letter required. This is an onsite, Boston-based position. No agencies, please.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Core Values

Isabella Stewart Gardner so deeply believed that art had the power to change lives that she built a beautiful, personal, and immersive Museum “for the education and enjoyment of the public forever.” Today the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum (ISGM) is a living embodiment of her bold vision; it’s a dynamic place where ideas and creativity in all its forms inspire visitors. We strive to tell new stories and challenge assumptions through exhibitions, music, programs, and performances and by engaging the perspectives and collaboration of our communities.

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum seeks to connect past with present, develop and sustain mutually beneficial partnerships with local communities and artists, broaden our audiences, and generate opportunities for creativity. We are firmly committed to a welcoming work culture and visitor experience. Our five-year strategic plan outlines the Museum’s core values, goals, and initiatives that serve as a renewal of Isabella’s promise to serve the public and be a resource for the city.

Position Summary

The Collection Maintenance Technician (CMT) works with a team to carry out dusting of objects in the Museum’s collection for eight hours on Tuesdays. The CMT will be instructed by the Conservation staff in methods for dusting and examining works of art. This is an excellent opportunity for an emerging museum professional to strengthen their experience in collection management, conservation, or fine art. All members of the staff at the Gardner Museum play an essential role in the advancement of the Museum and are required to live the diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion values of the Museum’s strategic plan in all aspects of their role.

IMPORTANT: The CMT works onsite every Tuesday, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Primary Responsibilities

• Carry out dusting, vacuuming, and monitoring of sculpture, textiles, furniture, and other decorative arts in the Museum’s collection.
• Report changes in the condition of collection objects to Conservation staff.
• Occasionally assist with other gallery maintenance activities, such as cleaning of Courtyard fountain, bi-annual cleaning of Courtyard mosaic, and art handling.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required

• Bachelor's degree completed or in progress.
• Demonstrated ability to perform detailed tasks.
• Demonstrated sensitivity to handling art and fragile objects.
• Previous experience in art handling.
• Ability to communicate well in English.
• Legal authorization to work in the United States.
• Commitment to advancing the ISGM’s strategic goals and values.
• Must complete a pre-employment background check to the Museum's satisfaction.

Essential Physical Requirements

• Ability to climb up and down ladders and work while on ladders.
• Ability to handle delicate and fragile works of art.
• Ability to lift, carry, and push up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to lift, bend, reach, and stand for extended periods of time. This job requires repetitive motions.

Preferred

• Museum and/or non-profit experience.
• Background in studio arts helpful.
• Bachelor of Arts degree preferred.

Competencies

• Demeanor and interpersonal relationships: ability to express oneself clearly in conservation and business writing.
• Problem solving: ability to anticipate a problem and work to find a solution or know when to seek advice from the supervisor.
• Protocols: ability to follow museum and department protocols including protocols for safely working with the collection.
• Teamwork and collaboration: ability and desire to work collaboratively with team members.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Museum is committed to affording equal opportunity to qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, age (40 or older), disability, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy, childbirth or related conditions, ancestry, or status as a veteran. Consistent with our core values and our founder's legacy, the Museum is dedicated to building a work community that fosters collaboration, excellence, belonging, and a diversity of perspectives and experience.

Request an Accommodation

Applicants with disabilities who are unable to fully access ISGM's online application system may contact us at [email protected] for assistance with a reasonable accommodation.