Exhibit Technician

Title: Exhibit Technician Level 1

Classification: Part-time, Non-exempt

Department: Exhibits

Reports To: Exhibits Director

Pay Band Technical Level 1

Pay Range: $23.00 per hour

Mission: The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History inspires a thirst for discovery and a passion for the natural world.

Position Summary: Responsible for the maintenance of the museum’s permanent and changing exhibits both at the Sea Center and Mission campus.
 

Specific Responsibilities:

• Responsible for using a variety of hand and power tools to install, maintain, rebuild, and/or repair existing exhibits, with an emphasis on safety.
• Responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the Museum’s permanent exhibits, including visual inspections, condition reports, replacement or repair of lighting, pest management, and other general maintenance activities.
• Responsible for maintaining the Exhibits work area and ensuring it remains clean, organized, and functional.
• Responsible for completing specific projects and other duties as assigned.
• Responsible for working independently and meeting deadlines.
• Meets with Exhibits team members and project managers to establish and track project timelines.
• Works professionally around large crowds and maintains a courteous and calm demeanor at all times.
• Follows all safety procedures both in the shop and on the Museum floor, including when using tools.
• Maintains and repairs a variety of equipment (training provided as needed).

Organization-Wide

• Maintain clean, safe, and organized workspaces.
• Follow opening/closing procedures and uphold safety and emergency protocols.
• Supports the Museum’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion for fellow staff, guests and the community.
• Fosters a spirit of teamwork and collaboration by actively supporting colleagues, sharing knowledge, and contributing to a positive work culture.
• Contributes to a positive guest experience by greeting and addressing any questions when encountering guests as they navigate through the Museum and Sea Center.
• Assist with other Museum educational and special events as needed and approved by the supervisor.
• Other duties as assigned.

Essential Requirements:

• 1-2 years of experience in exhibit fabrication or experiential space design.
• Strong carpentry, painting, and general fabrication skills, with experience operating both hand and power tools.
• Basic electrical knowledge, including practical skills such as wiring, lighting repairs, and equipment troubleshooting.
• Familiarity with shop environments and safe equipment operation.
• Ability to work independently, collaboratively, and under supervision.
• Excellent attention to detail, manual dexterity, and commitment to high-quality work.
• Strong customer service and communication skills; comfortable interacting with the general public.
• Physically able to lift up to 50 lbs., stand for long periods, bend, crouch, crawl, climb ladders, and work in elevated or confined spaces.
• Must hold a valid California Driver’s License with a clean driving record, to become an authorized driver of Museum vehicles.
• Available to work onsite, one weekend day per week, and occasional evenings or overtime as needed.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience maintaining and installing museum or gallery exhibits.
• Understanding of and sensitivity to handling cultural artifacts, natural history specimens, and works of art.
• Familiarity with basic AV and lighting equipment (e.g., monitors, speakers, projectors).
• Spanish fluency (spoken and written) is a plus.

Work Environment:

• Work takes place in wood/metal shops, museum galleries, and indoor/outdoor environments.
• Frequent physical activity includes walking, standing, climbing stairs, kneeling, and lifting heavy materials.
• Occasional work in dusty, cramped areas or at elevated heights using equipment such as ladders or scissor lifts.
• Use of personal protective equipment (dust masks, goggles, gloves) is required.

The incumbent must be able to perform each requirement of the position as outlined in the job description. Essential Requirements are representative and are essential for satisfactory job performance. The Work Environment characteristics are representative of those that may be encountered while on the job. The Museum will make reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.