Senior Preparator

Duke University, founded in 1924, is a leading research institution located in Durham, North Carolina. With more than 15,000 students and 40,000 employees, the university offers a vibrant environment for academic and cultural innovation.

Senior Preparator – Nasher Museum of Art

As a Senior Preparator, you will collaborate with curators, designers, and fellow art handlers to design, construct, and install world‑class exhibitions. Your work will ensure that each piece is displayed with care, precision, and respect for its cultural significance, while integrating technical systems to enrich the visitor experience.

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.

Duke University offers an annual base salary range of USD $20.52 to USD $32.86, plus comprehensive medical and dental care, a generous retirement plan, and a variety of family‑friendly and cultural programs. Learn more at: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

Certain jobs at Duke require specific physical and/or mental abilities, including the ability to lift 50 lbs. Reasonable accommodations can be requested through the hiring department.

• College‑level coursework in studio art, art history, or a related field (B.A. preferred).
• Minimum 3 years of experience in art handling and cabinetry work.
• Knowledge of archival and conservation procedures.
• Basic computer skills; familiarity with Sketch Up or CAD software preferred.

Apply now and help us build a stronger, smarter, and more connected future through art, innovation, and bold design.

Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy‑related conditions), sexual orientation, or military status. Our community embraces collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. All members must uphold these values.