Exhibit Technician - Grand Rapids Public Museum

Posted on 3/5/26

FLSA Status: Hourly, Non-exempt

Hours: Full-time 40.0 hrs/wk. Some evenings, weekends & holidays are required

Compensation: Starts at $17.95 per hour (.50 after 90 days and again after 1 year)

The Grand Rapids Public Museum is the oldest and second-largest museum in Michigan. We are a place of never-ending learning and discovery, with programs and exhibits focusing on history, science, and culture. The employee culture of the GRPM is one of teamwork, excitement, and learning. As an integral part of the West Michigan community, the Museum is open daily to visitors and hosts after-hours public events, programs, private events, and weddings. The entire GRPM team works to create positive visitor experiences through engaging exhibits and programs, and a safe, clean, welcoming space.

SUMMARY:

Exhibit Technicians ensure operation, cleaning, and routine maintenance occur for all exhibits within the Grand Rapids Public Museum. In addition, Technicians support staff with exhibit installation. Performing maintenance and operational support for the museum's carousel and assisting with its safe operation during public hours and special events. Daily tasks are assigned and work is monitored under the guidance of the Exhibits Specialist but the formal work performance is completed under the supervision of the Exhibit Manager.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES include the following:

• Operate, clean, and maintain exhibits and their contents to ensure a safe and enjoyable Museum visitor experience.
• Routinely inspect, identify, document, and resolve audio, visual, and mechanical problems as they arise within Museum exhibits and public areas.
• Assist in exhibit installation including painting, lighting, finishing, carpentry, and reconditioning exhibit elements.
• Perform tasks and use tools and equipment with careful consideration of all appropriate safety precautions for staff, visitors and self.
• Perform routine inspections and basic maintenance to ensure safe carousel operations.
• Assist operating the carousel during special events.
• Maintain carousel records of inspections, maintenance and operational concerns as required per Michigan State.
• Handles minor complaints, and takes initiative to problem solve.
• Work independently and within teams to ensure safe and clean operations of the museum's exhibits.
• Confronts problems head-on and takes initiative when solving them.
• Is punctual, dependable and shows up ready to work.
• Follow safety protocols consistently without fail and ensure compliance with OSHA/MIOSHA standards are adhered to.
• Assist other Exhibit Department staff with on and off-site duties.

WORKSKILLS:

• Strong people skills; work and communicate diplomatically and courteously with staff, other team members, volunteers, guests, departments, and key stakeholders to meet common objectives and desired outcomes.
• Must be organized, dependable, punctual, and possess a strong work ethic.
• Must have strong interpersonal and conflict-resolution skills.
• Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor.
• Familiarity with Google Workspace and department software systems.

EXPERIENCE:

• Experience using hand tools and power tools.
• Ability to operate a forklift and scissor lift, (desired).
• Some ability in one or more of the following areas: mechanical, electrical systems, and audio/visual repair.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ability to read and work from detailed plans (i.e. manuals).
• Ability to perform work in one or more of the following areas: carpentry, finishing, painting, or exhibit lighting.
• Ability to demonstrate critical thinking, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Demonstrated ability to confront problems head-on and ability to resolve them.
• Proficient in managing time, work assignments, processes and resources to produce desired outcomes.
• Demonstrate strong written and organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Proven ability to function effectively in a team environment and work independently.
• Ability to work tactfully, and effectively and follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to resolve conflicts and work well with others.
• Ability to be flexible and maintain a positive attitude.
• A valid Michigan Driver’s License is required.

EDUCATION:

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Post-secondary training, certificate, degree in a related field, or equivalent experience.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Must be able to move, bend, stoop, reach, climb, balance, and lift up to 50 pounds.
• Perform heavy manual labor.
• Work from ladders at a height of 12 feet or mechanical lifts at a height of 45 feet.
• The ability to stand, walk, and use stairs for extended periods.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Professional, creative, and business setting with friendly, public interaction.
• Multiple settings include worksite construction environments (indoor/outdoor), standard business office settings, storage areas, fieldwork, and public exhibition gallery locations.
• May have exposure to various chemicals.