Senior Preparator

Duke University:

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America's leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools.

With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Be You.

At Duke, we celebrate individuality and the unique perspectives that each member of our community brings. As the Senior Preparator at the Nasher Museum of Art, you'll be a vital part of a collaborative, creative team that brings world‑class exhibitions to life. You'll work alongside curators, designers, and fellow art handlers to ensure that every piece is presented with care, precision, and respect for its cultural significance.

Be Bold.

The Nasher Museum of Art is celebrating 20 years of bold, forward‑thinking exhibitions and a commitment to showcasing historically underrepresented artists. As Senior Preparator, you'll help shape the visual storytelling of our galleries, designing and constructing custom display elements, handling and installing artworks, and integrating multimedia systems that elevate the visitor experience.

Applicants should include a cover letter and resume. Incomplete applications will not be considered. This is a full‑time (40 hours per week), non‑exempt, benefits‑eligible position.

What You’ll Do:

Exhibition and Display Design & Construction (60%)

• Collaborate with curators and exhibition designers to create custom display cases, mounts, frames, and furniture
• Build and upholster stands and vitrines that ensure both safety and aesthetic excellence

Art Handling, Installation, and Maintenance (30%)

• Safely handle, install, and transport artworks across media and scale
• Supervise temporary labor and coordinate logistics for exhibition setups and shipments
• Conduct gallery walkthroughs to maintain lighting, signage, and surfaces

Technical Systems and Multimedia Integration (5%)

• Design and maintain lighting and multimedia components to enhance presentation

Logistics, Procurement, and Visitor Access (5%)

• Acquire specialized tools and materials
• Build and modify crates for shipping
• Facilitate secure access to stored artworks for curators, scholars, and visitors

Other Duties as Assigned

Other duties as assigned by the museum department.

Choose Duke.

Anticipated Pay Range

Duke University provides an annual base salary range for this position as USD $20.52 to USD $32.86. Duke University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position; candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills; internal peer equity; as well as market and organizational considerations when extending an offer.

Your total compensation goes beyond the dollars on your paycheck. Duke provides comprehensive and competitive medical and dental care programs, generous retirement benefits, and a wide array of family‑friendly and cultural programs to eligible team members. Learn more at: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

Essential Physical Job Functions

Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.

This full‑time, benefits‑eligible position offers the opportunity to work in a dynamic museum environment that values innovation, inclusion, and excellence. You'll report to the Exhibition Designer and play a key role in shaping how art is experienced at Duke.

Required Qualifications

• College‑level coursework in studio art, art history, or related field (B.A. preferred)
• Minimum 3 years of experience in art handling and cabinetry work
• Knowledge of archival and conservation procedures
• Ability to lift 50 lbs and perform physical tasks
• Basic…