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Gallery Technician
Location: N. Smith Gallery, Sydney
Job Type: Part time, 45 days per week
Reports to: Gallery Director

Position Description
The Gallery Technician plays a key role in the day-to-day operation of the gallery it is a highly practical, hands-on role that combines exhibition coordination with significant physical labour, technical problem-solving, and logistical support.

The position requires someone who is comfortable working across all stages of exhibition production  from concept development and 3D renders, through to fabrication, installation, de-installation, transport, and ongoing gallery maintenance. The role involves regular manual handling of artworks, driving between sites (framers, artists’ studios, suppliers, storage facilities), liaising with contractors, and undertaking a wide range of practical “odd jobs” essential to the smooth running of exhibitions.

This role is best suited to a highly organised, physically capable individual with strong technical skills, a proactive attitude, and a genuine interest in contemporary art and working closely with artists.

Duties include but are not limited to:
  • Creating 2D and 3D exhibition renders and layouts
  • Handling, packing, transporting, installing and de-installing artworks
  • Fabrication of exhibition materials where required (e.g. crates, plinths, supports, wall elements)
  • Painting, patching and maintaining gallery walls and exhibition spaces
  • Photographing and documenting artworks and exhibitions; editing images using Adobe Photoshop
  • Coordinating deliveries and collections of artworks, including regular driving to and from framers, suppliers, artists’ studios and storage facilities
  • Liaising with artists, clients, suppliers, and external contractors (e.g. framers, installers, AV technicians)
  • Managing practical and technical requirements for exhibitions, including hanging systems and display solutions
  • Overseeing general gallery maintenance and troubleshooting day-to-day operational issues
  • Assisting with exhibition scheduling, logistics and workload planning
 
Qualifications and Experience:
  • BA and/or MA in Fine Art, Visual Arts, or a related field (preferred)
  • 5+ years’ practical experience handling and installing artworks in a gallery, museum, or similar professional context
 
Strong practical skillset, including:
  • Use of hand tools and power tools
  • Wall preparation and painting
  • Art packing and crate fabrication
  • General gallery maintenance
  • Working knowledge of art-making processes, materials, hanging systems and display methods
  • Proficiency in Adobe Suite (Photoshop, InDesign), SketchUp (or another 3D rendering program)
  • Proficiency in Mac OS, Microsoft Office (Excel, Word), Google Suite, and database management systems
  • Full driver’s licence; experience driving larger commercial vehicles is highly regarded
  • Good physical fitness and the ability to undertake manual labour and heavy lifting safely
 
Key Attributes:
  • A strong work ethic and willingness to undertake a wide range of tasks, including physical and logistical work
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work calmly under pressure
  • Highly organised and efficient, with the ability to manage a heavy and varied workload
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong attention to detail and the ability to work quickly and accurately
  • A genuine passion for contemporary art and an interest in working closely with artists

 

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Gallery Assistant.
Location: Surry Hills, Sydney

Employment type: Part-time or full-time

 

N.Smith Gallery is seeking a motivated and organised Gallery Assistant to support the day-to-day operations of the gallery and NSG Shop. This is a hands-on, entry-level role suited to someone with a strong interest in contemporary art, gallery operations, and client experience.

 

Working closely with the gallery team, the Gallery Assistant plays a key role in front-of-house engagement, order fulfilment, and general operational support, helping ensure the gallery runs smoothly and professionally.

 

Key Responsibilities

  • Front of House & Visitor Experience
  • Welcome visitors, collectors, and artists to the gallery
  • Manage the front desk, phone, and general enquiries
  • Provide basic information about current exhibitions and artists
  • Capture visitor details and support mailing list sign-ups
  • Assist with appointment scheduling and viewings

 

NSG Shop & Order Fulfilment

  • Pack and dispatch NSG Shop orders
  • Prepare packing slips and certificates of authenticity
  • Coordinate courier bookings and local drop-offs
  • Assist with stock management and inventory checks

 

Artwork Handling & Gallery Support

  • Assist with safe handling, wrapping, and movement of artworks
  • Support installs and de-installs under staff supervision
  • Maintain clean and organised storage and packing areas
  • Assist with basic artwork documentation and condition checks

 

Gallery Operations & Administration

  • Open and close the gallery as required
  • Maintain presentation standards across gallery spaces
  • Monitor supplies and flag re-ordering needs
  • Assist with filing, data entry, and general admin support

 

Events & Projects

  • Support exhibition openings and gallery events
  • Assist with guest check-ins and event flow
  • Help prepare materials for offsite exhibitions and art fairs

 

About You

  • Strong interest in contemporary art and galleries
  • Friendly, professional, and confident engaging with the public
  • Highly organised with good attention to detail
  • Comfortable with physical tasks such as packing and lifting artworks
  • Reliable, proactive, and able to work independently
  • Valid Australian driver’s licence
  • Previous gallery, retail, or customer service experience welcomed

 

How to Apply

Please send a short cover letter and CV to art@nsmithgallery.com with the subject line ‘Gallery Assistant application’ by 15 Februrary.