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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to safely handle and install amazing artworks in stunning galleries.
- Company: National Galleries of Scotland, a vibrant cultural hub in Edinburgh.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous benefits, and a creative work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a dedicated team making art accessible and exciting for everyone.
- Qualifications: Experience in art handling, strong attention to detail, and great communication skills.
- Other info: Flexible working hours during peak exhibition periods with opportunities for skill development.
The predicted salary is between 25900 - 27000 £ per year.
Full-time and Fixed Term (from April 2026 to 31 March 2027)
Salary £30,900 - £32,250 per annum Plus generous benefits package
About the role
We have an opportunity for two experienced Art Handling Technicians to be part of our talented team installing exciting exhibitions. You must have proven skills and experience in the safe handling and movement of works of art within a museum or gallery environment.
You will work across all three of our stunning Galleries based in the heart of Edinburgh as well as our arts store at Granton Art Centre handling our incredible art. The Art Movement Team works to national standards supporting complex national and international programming in the handling, packing, movement, installation, and location tracking of a wide variety of artworks, including those from our collection and those on loan to us.
In this role you will ensure the safe movement, transportation, and installation of all artworks within the National Galleries of Scotland, including collections from and returns of artworks to lenders. You will also assist in maintaining the upkeep of the storage areas, exhibits, tools, and equipment.
In order to support our exhibition programme, you must be available and able to commit to working during the following peak periods:
- from 25 May 2026 to 19 June 2026,
- from 06 July 2026 to 07 August 2026, and
- from 26 October 2026 to 13 November 2026.
The difference you will make
In all that you do you will be part of a small, dedicated team of Art Handling Technicians who are supported by the Senior Art Handling Technicians. Reporting to the Art Movement Manager your responsibilities will include:
- Providing safe and efficient movement of artworks and other objects within the organisation and to other institutions, including risk assessments and method statements as required.
- Contributing to resource and planning discussions as required in line with skills and experience.
- Leading on individual project elements as requested.
- Maintaining location records and relevant paperwork following our procedures.
- Packing and unpacking objects and checking conservation condition reports.
- Undertaking courier duties.
- Sharing responsibility for the care and maintenance of equipment, including highlighting any concerns as appropriate.
Who we are looking for
To succeed in this role, you will need the following range of knowledge, skills, and experience:
- You must have proven skills and experience in the safe handling and movement of works of art within a museum or gallery environment.
- Awareness of and commitment to health and safety compliance and best practice.
- High standards of accuracy and attention to detail as well as excellent manual dexterity.
- With the ability to work calmly and carefully under pressure you will actively anticipate and plan for potential problems.
- Can demonstrate sound, timely and appropriate decision-making skills taking responsibility and using initiative.
- You will have a helpful manner and flexible approach, great communication skills and enjoy working flexibly as part of a team with the ability to work alone and committed to getting the job done.
- Apply sound judgement with regards to maintaining confidentiality.
- Good IT skills with proficiency in Microsoft Word and Outlook.
- Demonstrable commitment to updating skills and knowledge.
- Current driving licence.
It would also be great if you have:
- Willingness if required to train towards a category C (formerly known as HGV) driving licence if not already held.
- Experience in completing risk assessments and method statements, working at heights and heavy lifting operations.
- Experience with modern or complex installations.
- Familiarity with a collections management database.
The closing date for completed applications is 12 noon on Monday, 02 March 2026.
Art Handling Technician in Edinburgh employer: National Galleries of Scotland
Contact Detail:
National Galleries of Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Art Handling Technician in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the galleries and their exhibitions! Familiarise yourself with the types of art they handle and the specific requirements for installation. This will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Attend art events, exhibitions, or workshops where you can meet people in the industry. Building connections can lead to insider info about job openings and recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical assessments! Since this role involves hands-on work, be ready to demonstrate your skills in safe handling and movement of artworks. Practise your techniques and brush up on health and safety protocols.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Art Handling Technician in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your proven skills in handling and moving artworks. We want to see your experience shine through, so don’t hold back on those details!
Be Detail-Oriented: Since this role requires high standards of accuracy, ensure your application is free from typos and errors. We appreciate attention to detail, so take the time to proofread your application before hitting send.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect how your skills align with the specific requirements of the Art Handling Technician role. We love seeing candidates who take the time to connect their experience with our needs.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Galleries of Scotland
✨Know Your Art Handling Basics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of safe handling and movement of artworks. Be ready to discuss specific techniques you've used in previous roles, as well as any relevant health and safety practices. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
✨Showcase Your Attention to Detail
During the interview, highlight examples where your attention to detail made a difference. Whether it was ensuring the correct packing of an artwork or maintaining accurate location records, demonstrating this skill is crucial for the role. Prepare to share specific instances where your meticulousness prevented potential issues.
✨Be Ready for Problem-Solving Scenarios
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle pressure and anticipate problems. Think of past experiences where you had to make quick decisions or adapt to unexpected changes. Sharing these stories will illustrate your calmness under pressure and your proactive approach to challenges.
✨Communicate Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with a team, be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others. Share examples of successful teamwork, especially in high-pressure situations. Emphasising your flexible approach and helpful manner will resonate well with the interviewers.
