Museum Tech

Description:

The Exhibits Preparator/Graphics Technician position is primarily responsible for developing graphic design packages for temporary and permanent exhibits and related educational programming & marketing; production of exhibition interpretive panels and object labels; and creating and fabricating museum wayfinding signage and informational displays. Works collaboratively to coordinate the design and production of graphic assignments to meet project goals and deadlines.

This position is expected to be able to occasionally travel locally, regionally, or statewide to assist with exhibition installations and deinstallations at all ISM-affiliated sites, assist with Museum outreach events, participate in professional development, and for general operational needs of their work site. Museum Technicians are responsible for assisting senior staff, leading subordinate staff, and directing volunteers and interns in fulfilling established technical and/or specialized projects and/or programs.
Each staff member is expected to create work that is visible to the residents of Illinois; work in a team environment across geographic locations and disciplines; perform at a level that reflects national standards and best practices and abide by all professional museum ethics. Staff are encouraged to promote the activities of the Illinois State Museum Society (a not-for-profit membership organization to support the research/educational programs of the Illinois State Museum).

Job Responsibilities

1. Under the supervision of the Associate Director of Exhibits works toward established goals in the ISM’s strategic plan and the Museum’s exhibit plan; and functions as a preparator responsible for developing graphic design packages for temporary and permanent exhibits, and related educational programming and marketing.

• Communicates design concepts through sketches, mood boards, mock-ups, and sample layouts for review by project teams.
• Develops a brand style guide for each exhibit for the purpose of a unified vision across all platforms.
• Uses style guide in the creation of educational materials (pamphlets, brochures, flyers, etc.) for museum programs, events, and workshops.
• Creates logos and graphics for the marketing of Museum exhibits and programs.
• Keeps all electronic documents up-to-date on shared drives to ensure internal graphics files are accurate and consistent with brand.

2. Under the supervision of the Associate Director of Exhibits works toward established goals in the ISM’s strategic plan and the Museum’s exhibit plan; and functions as a preparator responsible for creating and fabricating exhibition interpretive panels and object labels, wayfinding & operational signage, and informational displays.

• Utilizes current research and standards related to accessibility, sustainability, exhibit trends, digital engagement trends, equity and inclusion, and wayfinding to concept, develop, and deliver the highest level of visitor engagement for diverse target audiences.
• Applies understanding of universal design and accessibility principles and practices.
• Creates print-ready mechanical files in a variety of software programs; and manages relationships with print vendors and component manufacturers (as per required procurement guidelines).
• Reviews and proofreads curator-provided content for panels & labels and, if needed, suggests edit options or recommendations.
• Provides mock-ups or renderings of signage layout and design for curatorial and interpretive review.
• Operates large-format and oversize full-color printers, laminators, and vinyl cutting machine in the production of exhibit graphic components and signage.
• Prints & mounts interpretive panels and object labels.

3. Participates in the preparation, installation, updating, maintenance, and dismantling of exhibitions and exhibition components at the Museum and other ISM-affiliated sites.

• Assists in packing and crating exhibit objects or artwork to prepare for transport or shipping.
• Loads exhibition objects and furnishings into Museum transport vehicle(s); may drive vehicle to destination; and unloads.
• Transports or re-locates exhibit furniture (casework, pedestals, vitrines, etc.) within Museum or between sites.
• Assists with exhibition installation as directed (paints walls, hangs artwork, sets displays, applies wall graphics and panels, affixes object labels, etc.).