Location: N. Smith Gallery, Sydney
Job Type: Part time, 4–5 days per week
Reports to: Gallery Director
Position Description
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
- 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
- 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
- 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
─────────────────────────────────────
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.