Art Handler
/Job Title:
Art Handler
Organization:
Federation of Canadian Artists (FCA)
Deadline:
Until Filled
Organization Description:
Founded in 1941 by working Canadian artists, including members of the Group of Seven, the Federation of Canadian Artists (FCA) is one of Canada's largest and most established visual arts organizations, supporting more than 2,800 emerging and established artists nationwide.
Through exhibitions, educational programming, artist critiques, workshops, and lectures, the FCA fosters artistic excellence, professional development, and public engagement with the visual arts.
Located on Granville Island in the heart of Vancouver's cultural district, the Federation Gallery presents over 20 exhibitions annually, including three celebrated international open calls: On the Edge, the Annual International Representational Exhibition, and the Annual International Mail-In Art Exhibition.
Website:
Job Description:
Organization: Federation of Canadian Artists (FCA)
Location: Federation Gallery, Granville Island, Vancouver, BC (On-site)
Schedule: Part-time (24 hours per week), Saturday–Monday, with occasional additional shifts by mutual agreement
Reports to: Gallery Coordinator
Compensation: $24–$28 per hour, commensurate with experience, plus 4% vacation pay and extended health benefits following the successful completion of a three-month probationary period.
Role Overview
The FCA is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Art Handler to oversee the safe movement, preparation, installation, storage, and shipment of artwork throughout its lifecycle at the Federation Gallery.
As a key member of the gallery team, the Art Handler plays an essential role in ensuring the professional presentation, preservation, and care of hundreds of artworks exhibited each year. From receiving submissions and preparing exhibitions to coordinating artwork returns, this position combines hands-on art handling, logistics coordination, facility support, and exhibition installation.
Responsibilities:
Manage artwork and shipping inventories, maintain accurate records, and coordinate the recycling of excess packaging materials.
Receive, unpack, handle, store, and retrieve artwork with the utmost care to ensure its safety and preservation.
Prepare artwork for exhibition and display, including framing, labeling, mounting, and performing minor repairs as required.
Document artwork condition, prepare condition reports, and communicate with artists regarding any damage or conservation concerns.
Process invoices and collect payments from artists for framing, repair, shipping, and related service fees.
Organize artwork for pickup, pack and secure fragile items, and coordinate return deliveries.
Coordinate the shipment of artwork and other materials, ensuring safe, timely, and cost-effective delivery to artists, clients, and partner organizations.
With the support of gallery staff and volunteers, oversee the installation and deinstallation of all exhibitions.
Maintain gallery, office, classroom, and studio spaces, including general repairs, cleaning, painting, equipment relocation, and facility upkeep.
Qualifications:
Experience in art handling and logistics, preferably within a gallery, museum, fine art shipping company, or related cultural organization.
Demonstrated ability to safely handle, pack, transport, and install a wide range of artworks, including large-scale paintings, sculptures, and furniture.
Experience coordinating domestic and international shipments, including packing standards, courier coordination, and shipping documentation, is considered an asset.
Strong organizational, problem-solving, and time-management skills, with the ability to adapt to changing priorities and deadlines.
Proficiency with computer applications and administrative tasks, including inventory management, record keeping, and correspondence.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team in a fast-paced, hands-on environment.
Experience in custom framing, artwork preparation, conservation, or restoration is considered an asset.
Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting, moving, and installing artwork and equipment safely.
Note: This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by the incumbent. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or qualifications. Additional duties may be assigned as required to support the ongoing needs of the organization.
How to Apply:
Please email your resume and cover letter as a single PDF document to fcagallery@artists.ca with the subject line:
Art Handler – Your Name
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Remuneration:
$24–$28 per hour, commensurate with experience, plus 4% vacation pay and extended health benefits following the successful completion of a three-month probationary period.
