Mount Maker

In support of our exciting and audacious exhibition schedule, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston seeks to expand our mount making expertise by enlisting the creative skills and services of experienced mount makers in one of the following classifications:

• Full time, fully benefited employment;
• Part Time employment;
• Contract employment;

Definition

In close coordination with Conservators and Curators, the Mount Maker position is responsible for designing and fabricating mounts that adhere to the highest professional standards of museums and create the desired display conditions.

These mounts and their associated support structures are intended to ensure the physical stability, security, and proper display of objects in both the permanent collection and those on loan, facilitating a suitable and safe exhibition of the museum's vast and diverse collection. A variety of materials will be used, including but not limited to metals, wood, plastics, and fabric. This role involves advising on and executing complex structural mounting solutions for various sizes, with the primary objective of minimizing interference with the visual aesthetics of the object while ensuring a safe and secure presentation.

Additionally, the Mount Maker oversees the operation, maintenance, and safety of the mount shop, ensuring compliance with best practices. The position is actively committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable work environment.

As a key staff member, the Mount Maker is expected to participate in interdepartmental collaborations with staff from Conservation, Curatorial, Design, Exhibition, Exhibition Production, Preparation, and Registration. They should also engage in workspace maintenance, including cleaning and organizing the studio space, maintaining material inventories and tools, procuring supplies, and cleaning labware. While they work under direct supervision within the department, successful collaborations with conservators and curators are essential.

Requirements

A bachelor's degree (B.A.) in fine arts with a focus on jewelry making from a four-year college or university is preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Candidates must be capable of handling works of art in accordance with conservation and curatorial handling guidelines and should have a basic knowledge of the proper care for a wide range of objects.

Proven expertise in designing mounts for a diverse collection, ranging from small jewelry to monumental works, is essential. A strong background in metal fabrication techniques, including working with steel, aluminum, and brass, along with the ability to weld, is required.

The Mount Maker must be proficient in Oxy/acetylene torch, TIG/MIG welding, using and maintaining power and hand tools, including power saws, routers, compressors, sanders, drills, grinders, lathes, and sandblasting equipment. Extensive knowledge of mechanical fasteners and anchoring systems is required, along with familiarity with conservation considerations related to the handling, display, and installation of artwork. Strong mathematical skills are essential for accurate measurements and calculations, and the ability to create templates and drawings that can be easily understood by colleagues in allied departments and partner institutions is crucial.

Prior experience with mold-making, casting, adhesives, acrylics, and epoxy resins used in mount production is preferred.

Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in project prioritization, with experience in project management and budget forecasting. The role requires a self- motivated individual who is comfortable working independently and capable of providing direction and overseeing others in executing large object handling and mounting tasks. Candidates should also possess the ability to define problems, collect and enter data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.

A working knowledge of Microsoft Office, imaging, and data management systems is necessary.

The ability to read and interpret documents, including safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals, is important. Additionally, the ability to write routine reports and correspondence is required. Staff members must also be able to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with others, often under timelines and deadlines which may lead to a feeling of added pressure.

The ability to speak before groups of students, members of external organizations, staff members of the organization, or visiting scholars and conservators is essential. A commitment to the museum' s mission of fostering an inclusive and equitable institution is fundamental.

Staff members in this role must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Manual dexterity is frequently required as duties involve handling artwork and operating tools and equipment. Job duties entail standing,…