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Chief Curator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Chief Curator information

See Florida salary details

$19.1K

$54.3K

$89.3K

How much do chief curator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief curator in Florida is $54,273.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,400.00 and $70,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chief curator do?

A Chief Curator is responsible for overseeing the curation, acquisition, and management of collections in museums, galleries, or cultural institutions. They develop exhibition strategies, ensure proper conservation of artifacts, and collaborate with artists, researchers, and stakeholders. Additionally, they may handle budgeting, fundraising, and public engagement to enhance the institution’s reputation and accessibility. Their role balances artistic vision with administrative leadership to maintain and expand a compelling collection.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chief curator?

To thrive as a Chief Curator, you need deep expertise in art history or a related field, significant curatorial experience, and advanced organizational abilities, usually supported by a relevant master's degree or Ph.D. Proficiency in collection management systems, digital archiving tools, and knowledge of conservation standards are typically required. Strong leadership, exceptional communication, and creative vision help set outstanding Chief Curators apart. These capabilities are vital for effectively managing collections, leading curatorial teams, and shaping the institution’s public engagement and exhibition strategies.

What are some typical challenges a chief curator faces in their daily work?

Chief Curators often balance the needs of managing extensive collections with developing innovative exhibitions that attract and engage diverse audiences. They may face challenges such as budget constraints, evolving technology demands, and the need to address inclusivity and accessibility in programming. Effective collaboration with directors, curatorial staff, educators, and external partners is essential to their success. The role can be both intellectually rewarding and administratively demanding, requiring ongoing problem-solving and adaptability to changing priorities. Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic environment that values both strategic vision and hands-on involvement.

Do chief curators make a lot of money?

Chief curators typically earn a salary that reflects their experience, the size of the institution, and geographic location, with median salaries often ranging from $60,000 to $120,000 annually. Senior chief curators or those working at major museums can earn higher salaries, especially with advanced degrees and extensive experience. Compensation may also include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

How much do chief curators make?

Chief curators typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $120,000, depending on the institution, location, and experience. Senior chief curators or those working in large museums may earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000. The role often requires advanced degrees in art, history, or related fields, along with extensive curatorial experience.

What are popular job titles related to Chief Curator jobs in Florida?

For Chief Curator jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Chief Curator jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Chief Curator jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Chief Curator jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Chief Curator job openings:

Infographic showing various Chief Curator job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,273 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

The David W. and Mary S. Benfer Curatorial Research Fellow (1 Year)

Florida State University

Sarasota, FL • On-site

$51K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


Florida State University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

290th of 622 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department
The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art is located in Sarasota, Florida, and is a department of Florida State University .
Responsibilities
The David W. and Mary S. Benfer Curatorial Research Fellow, a 9 to 12-month visiting A&P appointment, will report to the Chief Curator.
A full-time member of The Ringling's Curatorial staff, the fellow will assist the Chief Curator with the research, documentation, interpretation, and display of works in The Ringling's pre-1900 collection of European and American painting, sculpture, and works on paper.
Provides research support for curatorial work relating to The Ringling's permanent collections of pre-1900 European and American painting, sculpture and works on paper, including the ongoing, multi-year project to reinstall the original 21 permanent collection galleries of the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, and upcoming exhibitions, programs, and publications.
Provides research and general support for day-to-day curatorial work relating to the permanent collections of pre-1900 European and American painting, sculpture and works on paper. Under the guidance of the Chief Curator, assists in documenting these permanent collections and in responding to inquiries relating to them. Assists in evaluating requests for loans of work from the permanent collection, artworks for potential acquisition, and substitutions of artwork in galleries. May assist with grant proposal preparation and grant applications. Provides general curatorial research and planning support for projects involving the permanent collections.
May lead gallery talks and/or give lectures about curatorial work and research findings. May pursue publishing opportunities related to their work. Participates in special projects and other duties that support museum operations as assigned.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Art History, Museum Studies, or a related field and two years of relevant experience.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Art History
  • Advanced reading knowledge of one or more European languages
  • Knowledge of collection database programs such as TMS
  • Advanced research, writing, and communication skills
  • High level of attention to detail
  • Ability to:
    • Prioritize and organize work to meet project deadlines
    • Establish and maintain effective working relationships
    • Understand and interpret terminology related to area of work

Helpful
The anticipated start date for this fellowship is January 2027.
Contact Info
For more information or technical assistance, please contact Ringling Human Resources via email or by calling 941-358-2773.
University Information
One of the nation's elite research universities, Florida State University preserves, expands, and disseminates knowledge in the sciences, technology, arts, humanities, and professions, while embracing a philosophy of learning strongly rooted in the traditions of the liberal arts and critical thinking. Founded in 1851, Florida State University is the oldest continuous site of higher education in Florida. FSU is a community steeped in tradition that fosters research and encourages creativity. At FSU, there's the excitement of being part of a vibrant academic and professional community, surrounded by people whose ideas are shaping tomorrow's news!
Learn more about Florida State University and our campuses .
Anticipated Salary Range
The salary for this one-year appointment is $51,500.
FSU Total Rewards
FSU offers a robust Total Rewards package. Visit our FSU Total Rewards website to learn more about our Compensation, Benefits, Wellness, Recognition, and Employee Development programs.
Use our FSU Total Compensation Calculato r to calculate Total Compensation options based on potential salary, benefits and retirement contributions, earned leave, and other employment-related perks.
How To Apply
If qualified and interested in a specific job opening as advertised, apply through the FSU Careers site (jobs.fsu.edu). If you are a current FSU employee, apply through myFSU Self Service.
Applicants are required to complete the online application with all applicable information. Applications must include all work history up to ten years, and education details even if attaching a resume.
Your application is not considered complete until you have uploaded:
  • A position-relevant cover letter and resume that includes relevant experience, coursework, skills, and contact information (phone and/or email) for at least 3 professional references
  • A writing sample (10 pages or less, and may be part of an academic paper)

Considerations
  • This is a one-year, time-limited A&P position.
  • This position requires successful completion of a criminal history background check.
  • Work Location: Sarasota, FL
Working Hours
  • Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM with a one-hour meal period.

Equal Employment Opportunity
FSU is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

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About Florida State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

One of the nation's elite research universities, Florida State University preserves, expands, and disseminates knowledge in the sciences, technology, arts, humanities, and professions, while embracing a philosophy of learning strongly rooted in the traditions of the liberal arts and critical thinking. Founded in 1851, Florida State University is the oldest continuous site of higher education in Florida. FSU is a community steeped in tradition that fosters research, encourages creativity, and embraces diversity. At FSU, there's the excitement of being part of a vibrant academic and professional community, surrounded by people whose ideas are shaping tomorrow's news!

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Tallahassee, FL, US

Year founded

1851