Job Description

The Walker Art Center empowers people to experience the transformative possibilities of the art and ideas of our time and to imagine the world in new ways. In our over 125-year history, we have become one of the most celebrated art museums in the country and we are known for our innovative presentations and acclaimed collections of contemporary art across the spectrum of the visual, performing, and media arts.

The Manager of Collections Storage plays a key leadership role in the stewardship of the Walker Art Center’s permanent collection. This position is responsible for the oversight and maintenance of the museum’s collection storage facilities, ensuring that all objects are housed in optimal conditions and that the highest standards of care are upheld.

Manage a team of Collection Technicians, the Manager of Collections Storage coordinates and supports daily operations of the collection. Working closely with the Director of Collections and Exhibition Management, this role contributes to the strategic planning and implementation of long-term initiatives 

WHAT YOU GET TO DO  

Collection Care

• Oversee the processing and documentation of artworks added to the Visual Arts Collection, ensuring accurate and thorough record-keeping.
• Manage and participate in the safe movement, handling, and installation of artworks for exhibition, conservation, or study purposes.
• Collaborate on the development of packing strategies and crate specifications for outgoing loans and internal transport.
• Lead and coordinate regular inventories of the permanent collection to ensure accountability and condition oversight.

Facility and Equipment Management

• Manage the maintenance, organization, and routine housekeeping of all collection storage spaces across the Walker campus.
• Monitor and maintain inventory levels of essential tools, art handling equipment, and materials used for storage and transport. Identify and address facility needs in coordination with facilities and collections staff.

Team Supervision and Training

• Manage and assign tasks to Collection Management Technicians, providing clear direction and feedback.
• Support the professional development of art handling staff through hands-on training, mentoring, and skills-building opportunities.
• Promote and model best practices in object handling, safety protocols, and collection care standards.

Exhibition Support and Art Handling

• Participate as a member of the exhibition installation team, particularly for large-scale or complex installations.
• Assist in loading and unloading trucks transporting artwork, occasionally outside of regular business hours, including evenings and weekends as required.

WHAT WE NEED IN YOU 

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) or Bachelor of Arts (BA)
• Minimum of six (6) years of professional experience in museum collections care, with demonstrated adherence to best practices in art handling and installation.
• At least five (5) years of experience in designing, fabricating packing for a wide variety of complex and non-traditional artworks.
• Minimum of one (1) to two (2) years of supervisory experience, including task delegation, team coordination, and performance support.
• In-depth knowledge of materials, methods, and preventive conservation strategies used in the long-term storage of museum collections.

Preferred Skills

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize competing demands, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Highly attentive to detail with a hands-on approach to problem-solving and project execution.
• Effective communicator with strong interpersonal skills; able to receive and implement feedback constructively.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate as part of a team while also serving as a reliable individual contributor on complex initiatives.
• Capable of identifying creative solutions to technical challenges in art handling and collections management.
• Committed to fostering a positive, respectful, and inclusive workplace culture.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license
• Strong work ethic with demonstrated initiative and integrity. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS  

• Must be able to stand for long periods of time.
• Must possess the ability to lift 75 lbs
• Prolonged standing, and movement between multiple storage location required
• Working at heights on mechanical lifts and ladders

JOB SPECIFICATIONS This position is considered full-time (35 hours per week), exempt. As an exempt position, it is not eligible for overtime pay. The compensation for this role is $55,000-$63,700 annually. 

The Walker offers a wide range of benefits for both part-time and full-time employees, click link to view benefits: 

This position is not eligible for relocation assistance.

All applicants must be eligible to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship.

Walker’s DEI commitment  The Walker is committed to being an employer with a staff who, at all job levels, reflects the rich diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We are dedicated to ensuring inclusion and equity in all our employment practices. We deeply value and welcome all the unique lived experiences in our applicants and encourage anyone meeting the minimum requirements to apply.

Recruitment Timeline  All positions are open until filled.

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