The VMFA seeks talented positive candidates to join its growing team of Art Handlers who provide critical support to the acquisition, preservation, and presentation of all art in the care, custody and control of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Art Handlers ensure the safety of works of art in the care of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts during movement, installation and storage. This position works under the direction of the Senior Art Handler of Exhibitions and Special Projects.
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) is a state-supported, privately endowed educational institution created for the benefit of the citizens of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Its purpose is to collect, preserve, exhibit, and interpret art, to encourage the study of the arts, and thus to enrich the lives of all. As one of the world’s finest museums and one of the largest comprehensive art museums in the United States, the VMFA is the only art museum in the United States open 365 days a year with free general admission.
This salaried, non-exempt position offers Commonwealth of Virginia employee benefits such as 12 paid holidays, health benefits and more. VMFA staff also enjoy agency benefits like free admission to special exhibitions, previews of special exhibitions, employee pricing for select museum programs and classes, and discounts at Amuse Restaurant, Best Café, and VMFA Shop.
This is a temporary position funded for approximately 18 months. It is possible for this position to be extended based on the need for this position and the available funding.
Essential duties include, but are not limited to:
Planning for and carrying out the handling, movement, temporary storage and deinstallation/reinstallation of art in the museum’s galleries and art storage, specifically to support the museum’s security upgrade project.
Minimum Qualifications
Significant knowledge of conservation-appropriate handling, packing and storage practices, art installation methods, and design and engineering techniques related to the preservation, exhibition, and transportation of art objects.
Working knowledge and some application of collections management practices; conservation principles, techniques, and materials; security-related practices and procedures; and some knowledge of art history.
Proficiency in the use of databases, project management software, spreadsheets, and word processing.
Ability to fabricate appropriate housing for artwork, and skill in the operation of hand and power fabrication tools and other material handling equipment.
Experience with lifts and other material handling equipment.
Effective communication skills, both oral and written, and experience working as a member of a team as well as independently.
Strong organizational and project management skills.
Good judgment, flexibility, and willingness to adapt to shifting priorities and deadlines.
Additional Considerations
Documented success as a professional Art Handler in a museum or gallery environment with a minimum of two years’ experience.
Special Instructions
Selected candidates must pass a criminal background check.
To apply, click the link below:
Temporary Assistant Art Handler for Security Project – Richmond, Virginia, United States