> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/3451507-exhibition-manager-art-and-design-specialist](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/3451507-exhibition-manager-art-and-design-specialist). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Exhibition Manager, Art and Design Specialist - **Company:** The Art Institute of Chicago - **Location:** Chicago, IL, United States - **Experience:** Experienced - **Contract:** Temporary contract - **Skills:** Computer-Aided Design, Adobe Creative Cloud, Apple Mac Systems - **Published:** September 27, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=3e9cec23838f9ee5 ## About the Role * Bachelor's in Fine Arts of related field preferred * Two years of demonstrated expertise, art handling and art installation experience in a museum or gallery required; experience and interest in working with and mentoring students; knowledge and interest in works of art; mount making a plus; follow instructions precisely, work well under pressure and meet deadlines; sensitivity to needs of curatorial staff. * Ability to communicate effectively with people and other departments * Knowledge of policy and ability to apply that to unique situations * Ability to make objective decisions using sound judgment * Basic math skills * Knowledge of construction techniques, carpentry, and supervisory experience in an academic environment desirable * Gallery lighting design/experience desirable * CAD, Adobe Creative Suite and MAC OS experience highly desirable * Registration experience highly desirable. Physical Requirements * Capable of stooping, bending, stretching, and lifting * Must be comfortable working on ladders and at heights * Requires a demanding level of concentration * Requires regular lifting of objects weighing up to thirty pounds * Comfortably and work with basic tools ## Description Working closely with the Director of Exhibition Operations and the Senior Exhibition Manager, the Exhibition Manager serves as a full-time staff member of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago's (SAIC) Department of Exhibitions and works closely with all departments to facilitate events and exhibition activity organized by the SAIC Department of Exhibitions. With a special focus on art preparations and gallery logistics, the Exhibition Manager is responsible for the preparation, installation, maintenance, and de-installation of exhibitions at SAIC's galleries., Working closely with the Exhibitions Coordinator, the Exhibition Manager serves as the lead preparator for "traditional" art media such as painting, photography, sculpture, and works on paper. In this role, the manager: * Executes and directs procedures including matting, framing, glazing, stretching, hinging, mounting, storage, packing, handling, and installation of works of art. * Designs, fabricates, installs, maintains and oversees hanging/mounting hardware for artworks. * Demonstrates and shares art-handling/preparations knowledge and techniques to student exhibitors and student staff. * Designs and maintains infrastructure and spaces for the storage of artworks. As an administrative partner for gallery operations, the Exhibition Manager executes tasks such as: * Hiring and scheduling of student staff, independent contractors, and temporary employees. * Departmental purchasing. * Payroll/timesheet oversight. * Facilities scheduling. * Seconds the Senior Exhibition Manager in the day-to-day management of gallery and facility operations, including direct on-site supervision of student staff, temporary employees and independent contractors * Oversees, trains and assists work-study students hired to prepare, maintain, and de-install the exhibition site. * Shares responsibility for monitoring catering, security and guests, and for ensuring that occupancy and safety/security procedures are followed. * Maintains and updates training manuals for student staff. * Maintains opening and closing of the gallery as required. * Maintains daily log of temperature and humidity levels in the gallery. * Maintains and inventories tools and materials. * Assists exhibiting artists with their installations, troubleshooting and problem-solving art hanging methods, electrical, and equipment issues. * Handles works of art and supervises the transportation and installation of art in the galleries, storage, etc. * Prepares artwork for shipping to other museums, galleries, and lenders after exhibitions. * Corresponds with artists for exhibition planning as required. * Lays out and implements gallery configurations. * Coordinates schedules and duties with the Senior Exhibition Manager. * Positions signage and lights in the exhibition space and office area. * Participates in department staff meetings as required. * Other duties, as assigned by the Director of Exhibition Operations and the Senior Exhibition Manager.