Specialist, Exhibitions Fabrication

Department: Exhibitions Reports to: Senior Manager, Exhibitions Fabrication Job Type: Full Time–Regular Job Classification: Hourly (Non-exempt) Workplace Location: Los Angeles – Academy Museum Compensation: $27.88 - $28.85 per hour Summary/Objective: The Specialist, Exhibitions Fabrication will focus on maintaining the Exhibitions’ shop space, assisting with the oversight of the construction, installation, and maintenance of museum display casework and scenic elements, overseeing the fabrication and installation of artifact mounts within exhibition galleries, as well as assisting in many aspects of preparation for exhibition production.

This position is represented by a union.

Essential Functions

Coordinate and carry out the fabrication of exhibition casework, object mounts, installation materials, and miscellaneous projects. Work closely with the Exhibition Design team to ensure fabrication methods are aligned with creative intent. Work on all phases of design (concept, design development, and construction drawings) and develop technical drawings to illustrate concept through completion.

Assist with the creation of project schedule and cost, including material estimation, lead time, and finishing timelines. Fabricate using multiple different materials and techniques. Maintain the Exhibition's shop space, tools, and materials inventory, while promoting safe working practices. Liaise between external fabricators and the museum during exhibition rotations.

Ensure external fabricators’ methods take into consideration rotations and flexibility needed for future exhibitions. Assist with mock-ups of case and scenic layout. Other duties as assigned. Required Competencies: A high school diploma or equivalent certificate of completion. 3+ years in a design/shop-related field, including Exhibition Fabrication, Industrial Design, Exhibition Design, Interior Design, Furniture Design, Tradeshow, Prop Making, or Cabinet Making.

Experience with Vector Works, Rhino, or other similar CAD programs. Extensive knowledge of common construction methods, techniques, materials, and applications. Proficient with common shop equipment and practices: hand tools, power tools, table saws, panel saws, routers, laminating, etc. Understanding of objects conservation requirements and mounts details to ensure construction methods align with institutional standards.

Understanding of construction techniques, familiarity with wood and composite wood substrates, acrylics, plastic laminates, adhesives, wood finishes, paints, basic metals and finishes, basic metal fabrication, and CNC machinery. Ability to work on multiple projects that are in different phases concurrently.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with art handling work at a museum, fine art handling company, gallery, or artist studio is a plus. Physical Demands: Ability to safely climb and work on ladders. Ability to move throughout the work area as needed to perform the essential functions of the position. Ability to move and transport up to 50 lbs.

Ability to work with paints, cleansers, and other similar products. Ability to work in environments where dust may be present. Ability to work safely in a variety of work conditions, including an active construction site. Ability to drive a forklift and use material-handling equipment (training and certification provided by the museum).

Required Vaccination: Full vaccination against COVID-19 is required, including any booster vaccinations as applicable. Exception: Medical and religious accommodations approved by the Office of People & Culture . Our Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage. 15 days of PTO, plus company-paid holidays.

Additional time off, including summer hours, winter hours, and a cultural floating holiday. Paid sick leave Paid parental leave 401k retirement plan with a company match. Clean Air Commuter Program Employee Assistance Program through ComPsych Guidance Resources. Wellness benefits through Cigna Healthcare. Free access to 16,000+ online courses through LinkedIn Learning.

Free Academy membership screenings. Free tickets and screenings at the Academy Museum. Employee discounts through LifeMart and Working Advantage. @museumLI