Curatorial Assistant at Carnegie Mellon University

Job Title: Curatorial Assistant

Job Status: Full-time

Location: Pittsburgh, PA

Job Summary/Overview:

The Curatorial Assistant will be responsible for assisting the Art department in all facets of daily operation. The Art department acts as a repository for botanical art world wide. A successful Curatorial Assistant will process artwork for inclusion into various databases. They will engage in all manner of research, digitization, data-entry, record keeping, preservation and mounting of exhibitions and other related responsibilities as assigned by the Curator. Works under the close supervision of the Curator.

Your core responsibilities will include:

Primary job is to assist the Curator of Art in all aspects of managing the Art Department and coordinating all activities therein. This includes:

  • Planning the exhibition schedule; researching subjects, artists, and artworks from permanent collection for inclusion in exhibitions
  • Researching new artists for inclusion in exhibitions and collection and for programming possibilities
  • Preparing artworks for exhibition, including conservation, framing, and installation
  • Preparing text for exhibitions and publications, including research and writing
  • Creating all labels and signage for exhibitions, including those on loan
  • Overseeing travel exhibition program, including outreach to borrowers, preparation of artworks and all exhibition materials, arranging shipping
  • Cataloging artists and artworks for Institute documentation and maintaining departmental databases
  • Overseeing permanent collection, including cleaning and conservation of artworks, archival mounting, documentation, updating records, research
  • Digitizing artworks and coordinating with other departments for same, preparing files for databases and recordkeeping
  • Assist outside researchers, artists, and visitors with image requests and research into collections and pertinent subjects
  • Preparation of various forms in coordination with front office and/or other departments for gifts and other acquisitions, loans, and permissions
  • Outreach to artists and organizations, institutions, and professional groups
  • Coordinate and participate in portfolio reviews and critiques for artists
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of artists, materials, trends, organizations, exhibitions, etc. through outreach, attending conferences, and continuing education
  • Organize and give educational workshops, talks, and tours onsite, offsite, and virtually

Flexibility, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Division/Department. Inclusion, collaboration and cultural sensitivity are valued competencies at CMU. Therefore, we are in search of a team member who is able to effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

You should demonstrate:

  • Demonstrated competence in art handling and basic archival preparation of artworks for preservation and exhibition
  • Excellent organization, writing and communication skills;
  • Creative problem-solver with hands-on ability, sensitivity and respect for the handling of historical materials and dedication to accuracy and precision; competence with Macintosh computer systems
  • Adobe Suite and Microsoft Office applications
  • Basic photography skills preferred
  • An interest in developing a historical and contemporary perspective of botanical art and related literature.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Art History or museum/library related field.

Requirements:

  • Successful Background Check

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CMU’s COVID-19 Vaccination Requirements: 

As a condition of employment, Carnegie Mellon University requires all staff and faculty working in the United States to be fully vaccinated, including a booster when eligible, against COVID-19. Prior to commencement of employment, new hires in the United States must provide proof of vaccination or obtain an approved exemption. (Exemptions may be requested for medical reasons or for religious or strong moral or ethical conviction.) Staff and faculty must comply with all applicable COVID-19 mitigation requirements. Please see Minimum Requirements to Return to Campus for details regarding the university’s current COVID-19 mitigation requirements.