Telfair Museums seeks a collaborative, creative individual to join its curatorial team as Preparator and Exhibition Designer. This individual reports directly to and works closely with the Chief Preparator and Exhibition Designer; as well as works closely with the Chief Registrar, Associate Registrar, and Curators for all phases and aspects of exhibition design, from the initial concept to implementation and finished installation.  The Preparator/Exhibition Designer handles art objects, installs and de-installs exhibitions, lighting, A/V coordination, exhibition design, fabricates needed props and mounts, as well as other duties related to the movement of art objects within the permanent collection.

Key Responsibilities and Tasks:

·         Working closely with Chief Preparator, Curators, Registrars, Graphic Designer, lenders, and/or artists, conceptualize and design permanent collection installations and long-term and temporary exhibitions, identifying object-specific needs, generating space assessments, and updating them as changes necessitate.

·         Assists in the installation and deinstallation of all art within Telfair Museums’ three sites. 

·         Collaborates with the Chief Preparator and Chief Registrar to maintain installation work schedules.

·         Prepares all exhibition spaces, including wall painting, exhibition furniture, audio/visual equipment, etc. Maintain an inventory of available casework and other furniture and A/V components.

·         In consultation with the Chief Preparator, Curators, and the Chief Registrar, prepare objects for display, including fabricating casework, mounts, and other supports and framing works or arranging for them to be framed by outside vendors.

·         Maintains a working knowledge of current fabrication and installation methods and techniques.

·         Designs exhibitions and implements gallery lighting in collaboration with Chief Preparator, Curators, and the Chief Registrar.

·         Participates in the movement of objects for placement on view or in exhibitions, including packing and crating, in collaboration with the Chief Preparator and Chief Registrar.

·         Assists Registrars with the maintenance of collections storage as needed and if schedule permits.

Minimum Qualifications and Education:

·         At least 3 years working as an art museum preparator or similar experience

·         Possession of a valid driver’s license

·         Demonstrated skill with power and hand tools and equipment used in moving and rigging heavy objects

·         Demonstrated ability to work independently, be self-sufficient, and deliver work in a timely manner

·         Excellent communication skills and a strong ability to collaborate effectively and diplomatically, with flexible approaches and a positive attitude

·         High attention to detail

Physical Requirements:

·         Ability to stand, sit, walk across uneven surfaces, climb stairs, see in varying light conditions, and participate in very physical activities

·         Ability to lift, pull, or push up to 75lbs

·         Ability to work at high elevations up to 45’ on varying platforms or lift mechanisms

Salary and Benefits:

• Telfair Museums offers a competitive salary and excellent benefits. The anticipated salary for this position is $45,000–$50,000, depending on experience.

Please provide the following as part of your application:

• Complete CV or resume including references and salary expectations.
• A cover letter addressing both your interest in Telfair Museums and your qualifications for this position.

Application:

• Indicate “Preparator/Exhibit Designer” on the subject line of the email or in the body of the cover letter
• Applications in electronic format preferred and accepted at hr@telfair.org and via Indeed.com
• Mailed applications: Telfair Museums, Attn: HR, PO Box 10081, Savannah, GA 31412.
• Applications close August 21, 2026