Please find USAJobs.gov posting for a Museum Specialist (National Gallery of Art) at the link below. Application window opens July 21 and closes July 28, 2023 at 11:59 pm Eastern Time. This listing is open to the public.

738434900 [USAJobs.gov]

This full-time, permanent, federal position has a salary range of $78,592 – $102,166 per year at the GS-11 level. 

Summary:

The incumbent in this position serves as the Museum Specialist in the Division of Registration and Loans (PRL). The primary purpose of this position is to execute art movement projects for all works under the jurisdiction of the National Gallery with a focus on the preparation of outgoing loans to borrowing institutions. 

Duties:

The Museum Specialist will perform the following duties:

• Handle movement of artworks using proper techniques and equipment: Utilize appropriate techniques and equipment (e.g., dollies, heavy lifts, rolling carts, rigging) to handle artworks of various media, whether crated or uncrated.
• Safely transport and position artworks according to established protocols.
• Collaborate with staff members of other institutions and contractors: Work with staff members from other institutions and external contractors during complex installations.
• Provide clear instructions and special guidance regarding armatures, hardware, framing/reframing, and hanging systems to ensure successful and precise installations.
• Dust, clean, and vacuum all art objects on public display and in storage areas.
• Consult with the conservation department to ensure proper cleaning methods and preservation of artworks.
• Collaborate with registrars, conservators, curators, and design staff to establish installation schedules for artworks.
• Coordinate with team members to ensure timely completion of installations according to exhibition plans and requirements.
• Prepare artworks for shipment, particularly those traveling as outgoing loans from the National Gallery’s collection to borrowing institutions. This involves various tasks such as replacing backing boards, securely fitting artworks into frames, outfitting them with Plexiglas, or fitting them into vitrines.
• Collaborate with loan registrars and the art handling loan coordinator to coordinate outgoing loans.
• Determine the necessary packing preparations and packing schedules for artworks being loaned out to other institutions.
• Ensure compliance with Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations when packing artworks for shipment by aircraft carrier.
• Follow the required guidelines and procedures to pack artworks securely and safely.
• Operate the National Gallery’s art Sprinter or vans during extended trips to pick up or deliver works of art.
• Assist the primary guard driver in transportation tasks.
• Deal with unexpected and emergency situations that may arise during art transportation.
• Make independent decisions to ensure the safety and protection of the artworks being transported.
• Collaborate with freight forwarding and customs personnel during the unloading, handling, and loading of artworks.
• Coordinate activities to ensure the safe and proper movement of the artworks.
• Communicate the required handling procedures to airport personnel to ensure the safe transport of artworks.
• Provide instructions on crate orientation and any specific requirements to ensure the artworks are handled correctly.
• Acts as host to visiting couriers, assuring that their immediate needs are addressed to make their visit to the National Gallery pleasant and fulfilling.