Gallery Technician – Art Auction House & Gallery (Woollahra)

Smith & Singer is looking for an experienced Gallery Technician to help deliver Australia's leading fine art auctions and exhibitions.

ROLE | FULL-TIME

HOURS: 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, with attendance at evening auctions, weekend exhibitions and related activities as required

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: Permanent Full-time, subject to a six-month probationary review

SALARY: Commensurate with experience plus superannuation entitlements of 12%

COMMENCEMENT: Immediately with flexibility for the right candidate

ABOUT SMITH & SINGER

 Smith & Singer is an Australian leading auction house and gallery specialising in fine Australian and international art. With galleries in Sydney and Melbourne, we present 3 public auctions each year, complimented by selected bespoke exhibitions.

Smith & Singer represents several of the most respected contemporary artists and estates of leading Australian artists.

This is an opportunity to work with museum-quality works of art in a professional, friendly and highly respected gallery environment.

ABOUT THE ROLE

 We are seeking a practical, organised and reliable Gallery Technician to join our Sydney team.

This is a varied, hands-on position supporting the day-to-day operation of one of Australia’s leading fine art businesses. The role involves safely handling, installing and transporting works of art, preparing exhibitions and auctions, maintaining accurate inventory records and ensuring our gallery spaces are presented to the highest standard.

No two days are the same. One day you may be installing an exhibition, the next delivering works of art to a private residence, coordinating an auction installation or receiving new consignments into the gallery.

The position would suit someone who enjoys practical work, takes pride in attention to detail and has an interest in the visual arts.

 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

 Install and de-install exhibitions and gallery displays.

• Prepare the gallery and saleroom for exhibitions, auctions and private viewings.
• Safely handle, move, pack and unpack works of art using museum-standard handling practices.
• Install works of art using professional gallery hanging systems, direct wall fixings and appropriate installation hardware.
• Measure, level and position works of art accurately to ensure exceptional presentation.
• Confidently use hand and power tools for the installation process.
• Deliver, install and collect works of art from private and corporate premises using the company vehicle.
• Receive incoming consignments and prepare outgoing deliveries.
• Maintain accurate inventory records and monitor artwork locations.
• Assist with condition reporting and documentation.
• Coordinate movements between galleries, storage facilities, framers, conservators and photographers.
• Coordinate casual art handlers during exhibition installations, de-installations, auction bump-ins and bump-outs.
• Assist in allocating daily tasks to casual staff and ensuring installations are completed safely and efficiently.
• Assist with the technical preparation of auctions, including saleroom equipment, presentation and auction-day operations.
• Help maintain gallery presentation, storage areas and office spaces.
• Undertake other duties as reasonably required.

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

 The successful applicant will ideally demonstrate:

• Experience in an auction house, commercial art gallery, museum or fine art logistics environment.
• Experience installing works of art using gallery hanging systems, wall fixings and professional installation hardware.
• Confidence using hand and power tools.
• Excellent practical skills and attention to detail.
• Experience in handling valuable works of art safely and professionally.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• The ability to coordinate casual installation staff during larger exhibition and auction installations.
• Good computer skills and experience maintaining inventory records.
• A current Australian Driver Licence.
• A genuine interest in Australian and international art.

The role involves the regular lifting, moving and installation of works of art of varying sizes. Applicants should be capable of safely undertaking these inherent requirements of the position using appropriate equipment and safe work practices.

WHAT WE OFFER

 The opportunity to work with one of Australia’s leading art professionals.

• Exposure to museum-quality Australian and international works of art.
• Involvement in Australia’s most significant art auctions and exhibitions.
• A supportive and collaborative team environment.
• Long-term career opportunities within the Australian art market.
• Competitive remuneration commensurate with experience.

If you enjoy practical work, take pride in exceptional presentation and would like to build a career working with outstanding works of art, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Please forward your curriculum vitae together with a brief covering letter introducing yourself and outlining your relevant experience.

All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.