Job Advert
PRINCIPAL PURPOSE OF POST:
The Visual Arts Technician (Exhibitions) is responsible for the delivery of consistent and high-quality technical services relating to MAC's exhibition programme and gallery spaces.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Technical Support
* Art handling.
* Install and dismantle exhibitions.
* Build the environment for exhibitions, including painting and construction of plinths and false walls.
* Construct picture frames and exhibition stands.
* Install and adjust lighting, sound and AV equipment.
* Construct crates, securely pack artwork for onward transport.
* Prepare work for exhibition.
* Operate hand held and power tools.
* Carry out the movement of loads.
* Install lifting and suspension apparatus.
* Operate powered access machinery (MEWPS).
* Erect and dismantle access and support scaffolding.
Maintenance
* Operate, maintain and repair the equipment within the department's control, or recommend when outside assistance may be required.
* PAT testing of electrical equipment.
* Monitor exhibitions in place, carry out repairs and cleaning of artworks.
* Keep exhibition and storage spaces clean and tidy, make sure MAC provides a safe and professional working environment.
Health and Safety
* Have responsibility for Health & Safety within the exhibition spaces. This will include:
* Reading and complying with risk assessments
* Adhering to the Construction Design Management regulations under instruction from the Senior Visual Arts Technician
* Reporting any incidents or concerns in line with MAC's procedures.
* Follow established safe working practices in the pursuance of duties and ensure that artists and technicians adhere to MAC's Health and Safety policy.
Working with others
* Work alongside the other technical teams at MAC, sharing knowledge and expertise.
* Liaise with conservators for condition checking and curators regarding installations.
* On occasion deputise for the Senior Visual Arts Technician.
General
* Keep up to date with technical advances and practices related to the job role.
* Ensure that the centre works as an effective and welcoming base and that facilities and services are appropriately provided.
* Participate in training and development activities as required and to assist with the training and development of colleagues as appropriate.
* Implement MAC's Environmental Policy and consider how this role can contribute to MAC's sustainability goals.
* Further, promote and ensure the implementation of the equal opportunities, diversity, safeguarding and health & safety policies of MAC.
* Any other duties which may reasonably be required to support cross-organisational needs
Equal Opportunities & Diversity
All staff are expected to further, promote, and ensure the implementation of, the equal opportunities policies of MAC.
We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where individuals of all backgrounds, identities, and abilities feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best work. We are also committed to ensuring our people are a reflection of the communities we serve. We ensure that our recruitment and promotion processes are fair and open to all.
Note
This job description outlines the principal responsibilities and duties of the post holder. It is not meant to be, nor is it, an exhaustive list of specific responsibilities and duties. The post holder will be expected to undertake any other duties which could reasonably be expected as being within the remit of the post and which arise out of changes in legislation, regulations, orders, rules and working practices, methods and procedures and reviews, as directed from time to time.
Hours of work will include weekend and evening work.
Whilst we recognise the development of AI in the modern workplace, we would encourage you to take the time to complete your application without the use of AI; no generative AI tool can create the personal touch that you can inject into your own application.
Person Specification
A person specification describes the areas of knowledge, skills and experience a person should possess in order to take up the post.
Core
(You should meet most of these requirements)
Desirable
(You should meet some of these requirements)
Education
* Level 2 or above qualification in any subject.
* Qualification in visual arts or related field.
* IPAF/PASMA
Professional Experience
* Proven experience in installing and dismantling exhibitions in a gallery or museum setting.
* Experience in art handling, including packing and crating artworks for transport.
* Experience in an arts centre or multi-disciplinary venue.
Knowledge
* Knowledge of art materials and art handling.
* Knowledge of Health & Safety in a gallery environment
* Knowledge of rigging techniques and equipment.
* Equipment maintenance.
Skills & Abilities
* Strong practical skills in construction; painting; lighting and AV setup.
* Able to interpret and realise artistic designs and plans.
* Strong communication skills, able to liaise effectively with artists, curators, contractors, and colleagues.
Personal Attributes
* High attention to detail, approaches work with patience and professionalism.
* Able to work independently while recognising when to seek guidance.
* Confident working at height.
* Self-motivated, flexible and adaptable.
Values & Behaviours
* Commitment to equal opportunity and inclusion with consideration to how the gallery spaces serve their users.
* Commitment to maintaining a safe and professional working environment.
* Experience of sustainability within visual arts e.g. Gallery Climate Coalition
How to Apply
To apply for this post please follow the link below and follow the application process.
Please note that all applications are anonymised during the shortlisting stage. Any attached CVs will not be used at the shortlisting stage, so please ensure you complete the application fully and include all of your experiences, qualifications and any skills you have that would help us when considering you for this role.
Deadline
Applications can be received at any time until midnight on 31 October 2025.
Please be aware that applications will be assessed on a rolling basis and we may close this vacancy before the stated deadline. We strongly advise you to submit your application as early as possible.
Shortlisting
Shortlisted candidates will be notified of the outcome of their application between the time they submit their application and the application deadline.
Interviews
To be arranged with short-listed candidates.