The Art Institute of Chicago shares its singular collections with our city and the world. We collect, care for, and interpret works of art across time, cultures, geographies, and identities, centering the vision of artists and makers. We recognize that all art is made in a particular context, demanding continual, dynamic reconsideration in the present. We are a place of gathering; we foster the exchange of ideas and inspire an expansive, inclusive understanding of human creativity.

The Department of Facilities and Logistics is responsible for the repair and maintenance of the museum facilities and for non-art related operations and logistics. Functions in the department include Buildings and Grounds, Carpentry, Painting, Engineering, Mail Center, and Warehouse Logistics and Fulfillment.

The position is responsible for painting, taping, and staining a variety of surfaces in a professional manner. Skill sets include, but are not limited to, seal joints between wood, plasterboard and other wallboard materials to prepare wall surfaces for painting or papering.

• Apply paint to surfaces including canvas, walls, floors, doors, and cabinets.
• Mix, match, and apply paint, varnish, shellac, enamel, and other finishes.
• Scrape, sandpaper, prime, or seal surfaces prior to painting.
• Clean walls to ensure proper adherence.
• Cover surfaces with cloth or plastic to ensure protection.
• Calculate amounts of required materials and estimate costs.
• Fill cracks, holes, and joints with caulk, putty, plaster, or other fillers, using caulking guns or putty knives.
• Erect scaffolding, movable and immovable staging and various rigging to gain access to difficult areas; moves furniture and equipment as necessary.
• Remove fixtures such as pictures, doorknobs, lamps, and electric switch covers prior to painting.
• Apply several coats according to paint directions.
• Tape off areas when needed.
• Apply touch ups or second coats.
• Remove paint splatters when finished.
• Clean up all equipment, including brushes and spray guns.
• Utilize spray guns for large jobs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Successful completion of safety training virtually or in person, including, but not limited to: Asbestos Awareness, Hazard Communications, Fire Safety/Extinguisher Use, Personal Protective Equipment, Machine Guarding, Ladder and Aerial Lift, Lock Out-Tag Out, Back Injury Prevention, Hearing Conservation, Hand and Power Tool Safety and Driver Safety.
• Must have general knowledge of the methods, materials, tools and equipment used in painting, finishing and paperhanging.
• Demonstrated ability and skill as typically achieved through painter’s apprenticeship program, or 2+ years of related work experience.
• Knowledge of mixing and matching colors and types of paint.
• Ability to follow instructions, and communicate verbally and in writing.
• Must be able to work in a diverse and inclusive atmosphere.

Physical Requirements

• Periodic lifting and moving 50lbs without assistance.
• Frequent walking, squatting, and kneeling.
• Stretching and reaching overhead and below the waist.
• Elevated work; work on ladders and scissor lifts to reach high ceilings or walls.
• Climbing stairs, and ladders.
• Using/wearing Personal Protective Equipment as required including, but not limited to, respirators, protective footwear and eyewear.

We offer a competitive, comprehensive benefits package:

• Generous paid time off
• Paid holidays (up to 14 days)
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Generous parental, caregiver, and medical leave benefits
• Competitive retirement plan (up to 9% matching contribution)
• Tuition remission and Tuition Exchange Program
• Great employee discounts
• Complimentary general admission to participating cultural institutions

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The Art Institute of Chicago requires all applicants to complete an online application to be considered for employment. 60 minutes are allotted for applicants to complete the employment application. The application will automatically time out after 60 minutes. If you are unable to submit the completed application at this time, please choose the "Save for Later" option to avoid losing the information you have entered so far.

Vaccination Expectation

Becoming vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19 is the most important contribution we as individuals can make to ensure our own safety and the safety of our museum and school community. All employees must complete an attestation and provide proof of their vaccination and booster status, or request a medical or religious exemption within the first week of employment.

The Art Institute of Chicago is an equal opportunity, equal access employer fully committed to achieving a diverse and inclusive workplace. We believe in a staff culture that benefits from a wide range of experience, backgrounds, and career paths, and we encourage nontraditional candidates to apply.

This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by AFSCME Council 31