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Walt Disney Animation Studios is hiring: Art Collections Coordinator, Animation

Walt Disney Animation Studios, Glendale, CA, United States


Overview
The Collections Coordinator actively contributes to both the organization and preservation of the Walt Disney Animation Research Library (ARL’s) production art collection as well as activities related to the digitization pipeline project. This role involves processing physical artwork identified for digitization into the ARL’s collections management database, including placing artwork into correct production order by consulting reference materials, re-housing artwork in appropriate archival storage materials, capturing metadata for each piece, and cataloguing into the database. The position contributes to non-digitization collections projects, maintains organization of collection storage spaces, and supports the Research and Exhibition teams in pulling and tracking artwork. As part of Walt Disney Animation Studios (WDAS), the ARL houses a collection of more than 65,000,000 pieces of original artwork, including conceptual art, storyboards, maquettes, hand‑drawn production art, 3D models, textures, image files, and final rendered images.

Responsibilities

Rehousing and organizing artwork for both the image capture pipeline and non-digitization collections projects using best museum practices in handling and housing artwork.

Identify and pull original artwork from the vaults and rehouse the artwork. This involves reading and interpreting x‑sheets and other production documentation to determine placement and order of artwork, reading storyboard Photostats and reconstructing storyline order, identifying fragile mediums (e.g., pastels) and placing them in appropriate storage (e.g., pastel trays, interleafing glassine, etc.). Requires knowledge of art mediums and understanding of archival materials for safe and appropriate long‑term storage.

Through the above method, identify when artwork is not in its correct location and determine the correct production, element, order, and proper method of storage, locating the correct scene/sequence and integrating the artwork into the correct location and archival housing.

Identify damaged and/or inappropriately housed/high‑risk artwork and bring it to the attention of supervisor when necessary for repair assessment and potential conservation remediation.

Identify and implement appropriate storage options based on specific art medium and procure materials as needed.

On an as‑needed basis, construct pastel trays, maquette boxes or other types of specialized housing.

Cataloguing Duties
During the cataloguing phase of collections projects, this role will work closely with the Archives Data Specialist to:

Carefully and consistently catalogue artwork in our collections management system (MuseumPlus) following procedures and nomenclature developed by the collection team.

Catalogue work including medium identification, artist identification, measuring and labeling, and ensuring the correct metadata for consistency across all films.

Collaborate with team members on key words and nomenclature hierarchy for consistency.

Additional Collections Related Tasks

Assist the Research and Exhibition teams with identifying, pulling and tracking objects slated for exhibition
(including verification of art mediums and dimensions).

Conduct condition reports before art is shipped out and upon its return.

Participate in studio outreach events such as in‑studio collections exhibitions and presentations.

May be trained by supervisor in additional collections related activities as needed by the department’s priorities.

Basic Qualifications

College degree and a minimum of 3 years of equivalent work experience.

Experience in handling original art using best museum practices.

Experience cataloging artwork.

Experience working with collections management systems and spreadsheet software.

Familiarity with best museum practices for storing art collections.

Experience working on and contributing to projects that require sustained attention over long periods (weeks to months).

Ability to distinguish between different art mediums (charcoal, pastel, graphite, acrylic, etc.).

Willingness to follow specific in‑house procedures for artwork handling.

Ability to work in a collaborative environment while also working independently.

Effective problem‑solving in a high‑stress/fast‑paced environment.

Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.

Appreciation of and interest in animation and art history.

Ability to embrace change and adapt to new processes and procedures as needed.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and strong attention to detail.

Knowledge of Disney Animated Films – character names, artists, animation elements.

Physical ability to lift, push, pull or maneuver a minimum of 35 lbs of materials and/or supplies.

Ability to be a resourceful problem solver and learner.

Must be available to work onsite 5 days per week (Monday‑Friday).

The hiring range for this position in Glendale, CA is $53,200 to $68,700 per year based on a 40‑hour work week. The amount of hours scheduled per week may vary based on business needs. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job‑related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long‑term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.

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