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Curation Intern Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

As a Quantitative Trading Analyst Intern , you will gain exposure to the dynamic worlds of trading ... Market research projects vary from macroeconomic data curation and analysis to application of ...

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As a Quantitative Trading Analyst Intern , you will gain exposure to the dynamic worlds of trading ... Market research projects vary from macroeconomic data curation and analysis to application of ...

Curation Intern information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$17

$25

How much do curation intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for curation intern in Chicago, IL is $17.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $19.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a curation intern do?

A Curation Intern assists in gathering, organizing, and presenting content or information for a specific audience or project. Their responsibilities may include selecting relevant materials, researching topics, and ensuring that the curated collections are accurate and engaging. They often work under the guidance of experienced curators and may contribute to exhibitions, digital platforms, or publication projects. This role is ideal for individuals interested in the arts, museums, libraries, or digital media, and provides valuable hands-on experience in content selection and management.

What types of projects and tasks can a curation intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Curation Intern, you will typically be involved in organizing, selecting, and presenting content or collections relevant to your organization's goals. This may include researching trends, assisting with the acquisition or cataloging of new materials, creating metadata, and helping to prepare exhibits or digital content. You will likely collaborate closely with curators, content managers, and marketing teams, gaining hands-on experience in both the creative and logistical aspects of curation. These responsibilities provide valuable exposure to industry standards and can help you build a strong foundation for future roles in museums, galleries, digital archives, or media organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a curation intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Curation Intern, you need strong research abilities, attention to detail, and a background in fields like art history, museum studies, or library science. Familiarity with digital cataloging systems, content management tools, and database software is often required. Excellent organizational skills, creativity, and effective communication help interns present and contextualize collections compellingly. These skills ensure that curated materials are accurately organized, accessible, and engaging for diverse audiences.

What is the difference between Curation Intern vs Content Intern?

AspectCuration InternContent Intern
ResponsibilitiesSelecting, organizing, and managing collections or exhibitsCreating, editing, and publishing digital or print content
SkillsResearch, organization, attention to detailWriting, editing, multimedia skills
Work EnvironmentMuseums, galleries, archivesMedia companies, marketing teams, online platforms
CredentialsRelevant education in arts, history, or related fieldsCommunication, journalism, or media studies

The main difference between a Curation Intern and a Content Intern lies in their focus: Curation Interns handle collections and exhibits, often in museums or galleries, requiring research and organizational skills. Content Interns focus on creating and managing digital or print content, emphasizing writing and multimedia abilities. Both roles support their respective industries but serve distinct functions within the organization.

What are the most commonly searched types of Curation jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Curation jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Museum Intern

Elk Grove Park District

Elk Grove Village, IL • On-site

$15/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Internship Opportunity At Elk Grove Historical Museum

Starting at: $15.00 per hour Hours: Flexible

Here is a unique opportunity to apply first-hand the practices of the public historian. The Elk Grove Historical Museum campus includes an orientation/exhibition building, a furnished farmhouse, barn, chicken coop, and contains a fairly substantial collection for its size. The intern will experience multiple aspects of work as a public historian within a museum setting. The museum is located at 399 Biesterfield Rd. in Elk Grove Village, a northwest suburb of Chicago. Must be enrolled in a degree or certificate program including history, public history, museum studies, or related field of study.

The intern will be responsible for completing specific tasks designated at the outset of the internship. This would include becoming familiar with the basic history of the Elk Grove area and could also have the opportunity to provide tours of the site on occasion. Additionally, the intern would work directly with the collection. This would entail examining what is in the collection, assisting with an inventory, organizing the materials, and creating finding aids. Assistance with other museum duties including accessioning, exhibit design, event planning, and possibly assistance with events/programs themselves would be included. It is also possible for the intern to complete a specific project for the site. The specific topic as well as the scope of this project are to be approved by the curator of the museum and the student's advisor.

Essential Job Functions

  • The intern must be familiar with or become familiar with accessioning
  • Process items in the collection and catalog information in CatalogIt software
  • Photograph artifacts
  • Assist in research
  • Assist with exhibit planning
  • Assist with exhibit design
  • Conduct tours
  • Assist with the planning/facilitation of events/programs as schedule allows
  • Able to lift 30lbs.

Education and Experience

  • Basic computer skills - Google Docs, Sheets, etc. Experience with CatalogIt a plus
  • Knowledge of history, research, and writing processes a plus
  • Responsible, conscientious, self-motivated

Elk Grove Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer