Head Installer

SculptureCenter seeks a hands-on, detail-oriented Head Installer to join our team and supervise and/or execute the technical aspects of SculptureCenter’s art production, installation, and handling projects.

Position Summary

SculptureCenter is a commissioning and exhibiting organization. Our mission is to support the production of new sculpture in its many forms. Following this, studio artwork, installation, and fabrication are often inextricable and this role serves as a production lead across these different ways of working with artists. SculptureCenter sees all of our Curatorial, Exhibitions, and Installation roles as collaboratively supporting an artist’s ability to do something special in our idiosyncratic space. The ideal candidate will be committed to the artist-centric mission of the organization and will ensure that an artist has the practical support and encouragement of the team aligned around their project.

The Head Installer is responsible for museum-quality art handling related to installation and de-installation, including: receiving, packing, and unpacking, handling, displaying, and shipping fine art objects; executing or overseeing the fabrication of exhibition elements, pedestals, props, temporary walls, and other display designs; hiring and supervising a crew of Art Installers (hired seasonally as temporary employees); and assuring a safe and healthy work environment through knowledge of best practices. Working in conjunction with the Curatorial/Exhibitions Department and the Facilities Department, the Head Installer is a key team member for SculptureCenter’s ambitious schedule of exhibitions and public programs, including public events and some fundraising projects.

Examples of the kinds of exhibitions SculptureCenter produces are illustrated on our website. Typically, we install two large-scale exhibitions three times per year, opening in winter, fall, and spring. Our In Practice Open Call program runs throughout the year with 5 to 7 smaller exhibitions. Other projects happen on different and changing timelines.

This position reports to the Exhibition & Program Manager.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Exhibitions and Programs

In coordination with the Exhibition & Program Manager, plan, supervise, and execute the installation, maintenance, and deinstallation of SculptureCenter’s exhibitions. Work directly with artists on the production of artworks and exhibitions.

Develop production and/or installation plans, drawings, and schematics in collaboration with the Exhibition & Program Manager, communicating the artist’s vision and delegating workflow to the Art Installer staff.

Work with the Exhibition & Program Manager in advance to identify needs or issues pertaining to forthcoming exhibitions or the production of specific artworks, using SculptureCenter’s organizational and planning tools/platforms to communicate effectively among staff and with artists.

Bring an artist’s perspective to a range of fabrication processes, ensuring an environment where artists feel supported to work with new techniques or processes, facilitating new experiences in a space with particular opportunities and challenges.

Perform and/or supervise tool and equipment operation associated with woodworking, electrical, light construction, and audio-visual displays.

Execute and/or supervise the fabrication of exhibition elements, pedestals, props, temporary walls, and other display designs.

In conversation with Exhibition & Program Manager, identify and procure necessary materials and tools needed for installation and upkeep.

Coordinate and work with colleagues to execute handling, crating, packing, and transportation of artwork to, from, and within SculptureCenter.

Provide technical assistance for public programs and exhibitions. Provide audio- visual set-up and support for exhibitions, events, and meetings, including maintaining equipment inventory and assisting staff, artists, and contractors with A/V needs.

Art Installer and Production Vendor Oversight

With the Exhibition & Program Manager, develop and implement a recruitment plan to meet the staffing needs of the Curatorial and (at times) Facilities teams. Supervise independent contractors (e.g. wall build or specialty production vendors).

Ensure adherence to safe workplace practices in the operations of the Art Installer team, including proper procedures for utilizing power tools, paint, solvents, and other hazardous materials.

Facilities and Operations

Oversee adjustment and maintenance of gallery lighting, in collaboration with Curatorial/Exhibitions and Facilities.

Oversee the maintenance and operation of all Exhibitions work areas, including the production shop, art storage, and pedestal/crate storage.

Retain proper inventory of supplies and materials.

With the Associate Director of Facilities and Operations, ensure Exhibition-related facilities at 44-19 Purves Street are in good working order, well maintained, and organized.

With the Associate Director of Facilities and Operations, conduct regular Exhibition-related building maintenance as needed, assist in executing Exhibition-related facility maintenance contracts and repairs, and assist with the coordination and on-site needs of inspections, on-site work, etc.

Forecast necessary building updates and schedule implementation in coordination with the Associate Director of Facilities and Operations. Plan, prioritize, and schedule short-term and long-term projects of the Curatorial/Exhibitions and Facilities teams to meet institutional deadlines and priorities.

Assist in creating special project budgets.

Other

Complete all other duties as assigned within the scope of responsibility and skill required for the job.

Qualifications

Advanced knowledge and strong technical skills in art preparation, fabrication techniques, construction, preventative conservation, and packing techniques and practices; knowledge of proper use and care of power and manual tools, scissor lifts, and other pertinent equipment.

Advanced knowledge of materials, fabrication techniques, and construction processes.

Skilled trouble-shooting and problem solving.

Excellent organization and time management skills.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Minimum of five years museum or gallery experience in art handling, exhibition installation, packing and storage.

Minimum of two years of supervisory experience.

Valid driver’s license.

Comfort working on ladders, at heights, and in atypical gallery settings.

Ability to lift 50 lbs.

BFA/MFA in studio art or related field a plus.

Not sure you meet 100% of our qualifications? Research shows that men apply for jobs when they meet an average of 60% of the criteria. Yet, women and other people who are systematically marginalized tend to only apply if they meet every requirement. If you believe that you could excel in this role, we encourage you to apply. We are dedicated to considering a broad array of candidates, including those with diverse workplace experiences and backgrounds. Whether you’re relatively new to arts and culture work, returning to work after a gap in employment, simply looking to transition, or taking the next step in your career path, we will be glad to have you on our radar.

Submit a cover letter and resume, as attachments, to [email protected] with “Head Installer – 2026” in the subject line.

Open until filled. Applications will be reviewed and interviews will be held on a rolling basis.

No telephone calls please.

SculptureCenter is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.