Gallery Technician Onboarding Checklist

Gallery Technician Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Gallery Technician starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Art onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Gallery Technician, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Gallery Technician onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Gallery Technician Onboarding Checklist

1. Introduction to the company: The new gallery technician should be provided with a comprehensive introduction to the company, including its history, mission, values, and organizational structure. This task is typically performed by the HR department or a designated supervisor.

2. Familiarization with gallery spaces: The technician should be given a tour of the gallery spaces, including exhibition areas, storage rooms, and any other relevant areas. This will help them understand the layout and functionality of the gallery. The task is usually performed by a senior gallery technician or a curator.

3. Review of safety protocols: Safety is of utmost importance in an art gallery, so the new technician should be briefed on all safety protocols and procedures. This includes knowledge of emergency exits, fire safety, handling hazardous materials, and any specific safety measures related to the artwork. The task is typically performed by the gallery manager or a designated safety officer.

4. Introduction to artwork handling: As a gallery technician, the individual will be responsible for handling and installing artwork. They should receive training on proper handling techniques, including how to use gloves, lift and transport delicate pieces, and secure artwork for display. This task is usually performed by a senior gallery technician or a curator.

5. Understanding of exhibition planning: The technician should be familiarized with the process of planning and organizing exhibitions. This includes learning about exhibition schedules, installation timelines, and the coordination of artwork loans or acquisitions. The task is typically performed by the gallery manager or a curator.

6. Training on art installation techniques: The technician should receive training on various art installation techniques, such as hanging paintings, mounting sculptures, and arranging multimedia installations. They should also learn how to use specialized tools and equipment required for installation. This task is usually performed by a senior gallery technician or a curator.

7. Introduction to art handling software: Many galleries use specialized software for inventory management and artwork tracking. The technician should be trained on how to use this software effectively, including entering artwork information, updating records, and generating reports. This task is typically performed by the gallery manager or a designated IT specialist.

8. Familiarization with gallery policies: The technician should be provided with a copy of the gallery’s policies and procedures manual, which outlines guidelines for artwork handling, visitor interactions, and general gallery operations. They should be given time to review and understand these policies. The task is typically performed by the HR department or a designated supervisor.

9. Collaboration with other departments: The technician should be introduced to colleagues from other departments, such as curators, registrars, and marketing personnel. This will help them understand how their role fits into the larger gallery ecosystem and foster collaboration. The task is typically performed by the gallery manager or a designated supervisor.

10. Ongoing professional development: The technician should be encouraged to participate in professional development opportunities, such as attending workshops, conferences, or art-related courses. This will help them stay updated with industry trends and enhance their skills. The task is typically supported by the gallery manager or HR department, who may provide information on relevant opportunities.

11. Introduction to gallery-specific software: In addition to art handling software, the technician may need to learn how to use other gallery-specific software, such as point-of-sale systems, online ticketing platforms, or customer relationship management tools. This task is typically performed by the gallery manager or a designated IT specialist.

12. Understanding of gallery maintenance: The technician should be trained on basic gallery maintenance tasks, such as cleaning exhibition spaces, monitoring environmental conditions, and maintaining lighting systems. They should also be aware of any specific maintenance requirements for different types of artwork. This task is typically performed by a senior gallery technician or a designated maintenance staff.

13. Familiarization with gallery archives: If the gallery maintains an archive of past exhibitions or artist portfolios, the technician should be introduced to the archive system and trained on how to access and retrieve relevant information. This task is typically performed by a curator or a designated archivist.

14. Introduction to gallery-specific terminology: The technician should be provided with a glossary of gallery-specific terminology to help them understand and communicate effectively within the art world. This may include terms related to art movements, conservation techniques, or exhibition design. The task is typically performed by a senior gallery technician or a curator.

15. Shadowing experienced technicians: To gain practical experience, the new technician should have the opportunity to shadow experienced technicians during installations, deinstallations, or other gallery operations. This will allow them to observe and learn from experienced professionals. The task is typically arranged by the gallery manager or a designated supervisor

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Gallery Technician checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Gallery Technician up to speed and working well in your Art team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.