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Exhibition Designer/ Preparator – Job Description Working Title: Exhibition Designer/ Preparator Position Number: FA426 FLSA: Exempt Appointment Type: Full Time Sensitive Position: No Sensitive Position Statement: A sensitive position requires a fingerprint-based criminal history Check. This is NOT a sensitive position. Campus Security Authority: No Campus Security Authority Statement: This position is NOT designated as a Campus Security Authority. A Campus Security Authority (or CSA) is defined as an “official of the institution with significant responsibility for student and campus activities” and must report crimes to University Police. Annual training is required by the Department of Education for all personnel who have been designated as a CSA. Designated Personnel: Yes Designated Personnel Statement: This position is a “designated position” meaning this position could potentially be required to work during an emergency closing. Statement of Economic Interest: No Statement of Economic Interest Statement: This position does NOT require a Statement of Personal Economic Interest. Restricted Position: No Restricted Position Statement: A restricted position would be subject to availability of funding. This is NOT a restricted position. Chief Objective of Position: The chief objective is to support the exhibitions program at the Torggler Fine Arts Center by ensuring high quality, innovative exhibition design, and skilled, responsible handling of art objects. Work Tasks The Exhibition Designer / Preparator supports exhibitions at the Torggler by managing exhibition design and installation. This position is responsible for the following tasks and duties: In consultation with the director and curator, contributes to the design and layout of exhibitions to include: building temporary walls and spaces, platforms, mounts and other exhibition design features; ensuring gallery spaces are painted and properly appointed; and managing lighting design. Also supervises the production and installation of gallery signage and labels in consultation with the curator. Responsible for art handling in accordance with accepted museum standards, to include: receiving incoming art objects, unpacking and re-packing objects for shipment, and presenting objects in the gallery in consultation with the curator and/or director. Assists as needed with shipping and transportation arrangements, including serving as a courier if needed or collecting/returning artwork within the region. Supervises the loading and unloading of art deliveries. Establishes logistics and procedures for art installation. Responsible for securing, scheduling, and supervising contracted professional art handlers required to prepare the galleries for exhibition. Responsible for the safety of art objects under the Torggler’s care, whether during transportation, in storage, on display, or during packing and unpacking. Ensures best practices for museum security. Prepares art objects for presentation, including matting and framing, and creating specialized mounts, platforms, pedestals, or other items necessary to exhibit an object safely. Supervises contractors when they build props or gallery features and serves as the main point of contact. Assists and supports academic exhibitions organized by the Department of Fine Art and Art History by training and mentoring student interns on how to install, deinstall, prep walls, and safely handle art. Monitors environmental controls in gallery spaces and storage areas, including temperature, humidity, and lighting levels. Maintains compliance with OSHA and ADA regulations, and adheres to AAM-mandated museum practices for art handling, display, transportation, and storage. Maintains and organizes art storage areas, crate storage, matting and framing areas, and other specialized spaces supporting the Torggler. Utilizes and cares for specialized equipment and tools pertaining to art handling and preparation. Orders required tools and equipment as necessary under the direction of the curator. Supervises the work of a part-time studio technician, shared between the Torggler and the Department of Fine Art and Art History. Additionally: This position is designated as a “responsible employee” who has the authority to redress sexual violence, who has the duty to report incidents of sexual violence or other student misconduct, or who a student could reasonably believe has this authority or duty. This position develops and maintains positive and professional customer service within the office/department and with all constituencies, including students, faculty, staff, guests, and employees. Demonstrates a positive and professional attitude and treats everyone with dignity and respect. Fully supports the “Student’s First” value at CNU. Follow workplace safety regulations and adhere to applicable standards, processes, and programs. Report unsafe work conditions to your supervisor and participate in accident investigations when requested. This position performs other duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities (KSA's) Knowledge of exhibition design techniques; understanding of environmental conditions and controls; knowledge of proper art handling, documentation, and storage procedures; understanding of museum security requirements; ability to read blueprints/technical diagrams; ability to fabricate pedestals, platforms, and other gallery props; ability to collaborate with the director and curator to plan, design, and implement exhibitions. Education and Experience Required Education: Master’s degree or a Bachelor’s degree and equivalent experience that equates to an advanced degree is required. Additional Consideration - Education: Master’s degree in an art-related field preferred. Experience Required: Demonstrated experience as an art handler/ preparator/ exhibition designer at an accredited visual arts organization, with experience in exhibition design and/or management. Additional Consideration - Experience: Significant experience as an art handler/ preparator/ exhibition designer in an accredited visual arts organization preferred. Salary Starting at $58,880, commensurate with education and experience. About CNU Christopher Newport University is anchored in excellence and is an EO Employer committed to access and opportunity. We offer an outstanding liberal arts education with more than 90 areas of study across a largely residential campus. For details, visit cnu.edu. Is this position telework eligible? No Posting Number: AP423P Number of Vacancies: 1 Posting Date: 09/05/2025 Review Begin Date: 10/05/2025 Application Instructions: Interested parties are requested to submit a cover letter, current resume, and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three professional references. This position will be posted until filled; for priority consideration, apply by 10/05/2025. Finalists will complete a CNU background check. Christopher Newport University will accommodate disabilities in the application/interview process; contact the HR Office at (757) 594-7145. Quick Link for Internal Postings: This posting is available at jobs.cnu.edu/postings/19797 EEO/Diversity Statements: Christopher Newport University is an EO Employer committed to access and opportunity. Notice of Non-Discrimination & Title IX policy statements are provided as part of this posting. #J-18808-Ljbffr Christopher Newport University

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