Job Abstract

The Museum Exhibit Technician is a mission-critical position responsible for the day-to-day operations (construction, maintenance, and lighting of exhibits), helping the Sam Noble Museum in achieving its long-term goals as an institution. The Museum Exhibit Technician will assist in improving existing displays, design-build new visitor experiences, and assist in the installation and de-installation of temporary and traveling exhibits. This position can also provide fabrication assistance to other museum areas, including Education and Community Outreach and Collections and Research.

• Performs a variety of duties involving the daily maintenance of the museum’s exhibits (lighting, repairs, etc.).
• Construction of new permanent and temporary exhibits, cases, and educational items using small hand tools and power equipment.
• Cleans the work area.
• Unpacks, installs, take-downs, and crates rental exhibits.
• Delivers and installs temporary exhibits at locations within the state.
• Performs maintenance and repair of shop equipment using small hand tools and power equipment.
• Assists with inventory and ordering of supplies and equipment.
• Performs various duties as needed to successfully fulfill the function of the position.

Located on the University of Oklahoma Norman campus, the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History is part of exceptional academic and research communities. Furthermore, with affordable living costs and a diverse range of recreational activities, the city of Norman offers the appeal of a vibrant community with a small-town feel, paired with the cultural and educational opportunities presented by the University of Oklahoma. There are many perks to employment at The University of Oklahoma, including but not limited to:

• 27 days of annual paid time off, increased with years of service
• 14 paid holiday days off
• Healthcare plan options to meet healthcare and financial needs
• Retirement plan options
• Two weeks of paid parental leave
• Employee wellness program featuring activities to earn up to $300/year
• Discounted athletic and cultural event tickets
• Tuition Waiver Program; Discounted tuition and fees for yourself and other dependents

Required Education and Experience: None

Skills:

• Basic math and computer skills.
• Ability to communicate verbally and in writing.
• Ability to accurately read and understand written materials and instructions.
• Ability to update written records, including computerized records.

Departmental Preferences:

• B.S. or B.A. in Studio Art, Museum Studies, or similar.
• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in an exhibit fabrication shop or similar.
• Formal training in mount making and exhibit techniques, including safe artifact handling.
• Knowledge of Museum best practices for object handling, packing, mount making, etc.
• Knowledge of the proper use and fabrication of a wide range of “object-safe” materials.
• Skill in the methods and techniques of machining, carving, cutting, finishing, molding, casting, and other arts and crafts involved in the construction of museum props and exhibits.
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD or similar programs.
• Familiarity with mechanical and electronic device production.
• Use of a 3-axis CNC machine.
• Familiar with the laser cutting/etching of plastics.
• Computer literacy and competency with Microsoft Office programs, especially Teams, and Office 365, and knowledge of ability platforms such as Zoom, Google Drive, Adobe Creative Suite, and others.
• Useful knowledge of shop practices for wood, metal, and plastics.
• Use of a variety of 2D and 3D design software packages.
• The ability to create from reading technical/shop drawings and blueprints.
• Excellent skills in organization and time management.
• The ability to think laterally and be an effective problem-solver.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills in one-on-one and group settings.

Physical Requirements:

• Climbing ladders, working at heights.
• Required to be mobile, agile, bend, stoop, squat, climb (including carrying while climbing), lift, and carry (up to 15-44 pounds).
• Able to reach including manual dexterity and extending the arm or hand.
• Able to engage in repetitive motions.
• Able to read handwritten documents.
• Able to speak, read, and write clear, concise English, including expressing oneself or exchanging information with others.
• Able to hear including receiving detailed information orally.
• Able to see including color, depth, perception, or clarity.
• Exposure to machines, loud tools, and processes.
• Must be comfortable in the use of heavy machinery for lifting and access, such as fork-trucks, scissor lifts, and boom lifts, and able to work at heights using a lift or a ladder.
• Exposure to chemicals and solvents.
• Painting and exposure to chemicals associated with paint.
• Exposure to odors.
• Working with insulation such as fiberglass.
• Exposure to disagreeable tasks or conditions.
• Working in very tight areas/cramped enclosures.
• The job may include frequent exposure to pressure caused by deadlines and busy periods.
• Requires contact with non-university and university visitors, clients, contractors, and vendors.

Certifications:

• Valid Oklahoma Driver's License in order to drive University vehicles or ability to obtain within 30 days from hire date

Special Instructions: If you are selected as a final candidate for this position, you will be subject to The University of Oklahoma Norman Campus Tuberculosis Testing policy. To view the policy, visit https://hr.ou.edu/Policies-Handbooks/TB-Testing.

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma: The University of Oklahoma fosters an inclusive culture of respect and civility, belonging, and access, which are essential to our collective pursuit of excellence and our determination to change lives. The unique talents, perspectives, and experiences of our community enrich the learning, and working environment at OU, inspiring us to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The University of Oklahoma, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, employment, financial aid, housing, services in educational programs or activities, and health care services that the University operates or provides.