1

Curator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Curator participates in the research, proposal, and documentation of acquisitions; publication and presentation on the collection; and will serve as lead on exhibition projects, including the ...

Ihlenfeld Curator and OBrien Fellow (changes yearly) Also supervises curatorial assistants, interns, and volunteers as the changing demands of projects warrant. In-person. This is a senior level ...

Curator of Birds Department: Animal Reports To: General Curator Location: Audubon Zoo FLSA Status: Exempt Position Type: Full Time Who We Are Audubon Nature Institute comprises Audubon Park, Audubon ...

The role of Chief Curator presents an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of one of the nation's leading academic museums. Its distinguished collection comprises more than 10,000 artworks ...

The role of Chief Curator presents an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of one of the nation's leading academic museums. Its distinguished collection comprises more than 10,000 artworks ...

The role of Chief Curator presents an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of one of the nation's leading academic museums. Its distinguished collection comprises more than 10,000 artworks ...

The W Music Curator role provides an opportunity for us to place greater focus on elevating this experience on-property, in an authentic way. The vibe of our W Living Rooms/W Lounges is a critical ...

CURATOR OF HISTORY

Riverside, CA · On-site

$79K - $96K/yr

The Curator of History is responsible for curating exhibitions, developing and presenting programs, and building the local history collections for the Museum of Riverside. Also included are ...

CURATOR OF HISTORY

Riverside, CA · On-site

$79K - $96K/yr

The Curator of History is responsible for curating exhibitions, developing and presenting programs, and building the local history collections for the Museum of Riverside. Also included are ...

Arboretum Curator

Aiken, SC · On-site

$48K/yr

The Curator leads the stewardship, development, and interpretation of the City of Aiken's arboretum collections, ensuring exceptional horticultural and arboricultural standards. This role combines ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Curator information

See salary details

$25.5K

$72.6K

$119.5K

How much do curator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for curator in the United States is $72,627.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $94,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What degree is needed to be a curator?

A curator typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as art history, museum studies, archaeology, or a related discipline. Many positions also prefer or require a master's degree or higher, along with experience in collections management, research, or conservation.

What qualifications do I need to be a curator?

A curator typically needs a bachelor's degree in a related field such as art history, museum studies, or archaeology, with many roles preferring a master's degree or higher. Relevant experience through internships or volunteer work, strong research skills, and knowledge of collections management are also important. Certifications in museum or archival practices can enhance job prospects.

What are some common challenges curators face when planning exhibitions, and how can they overcome them?

Curators often encounter challenges such as balancing artistic vision with budget constraints, managing loan agreements for artworks, and coordinating logistics for installation. They also need to ensure that exhibitions are accessible and engaging for diverse audiences. To overcome these challenges, curators frequently collaborate with educators, registrars, designers, and conservators, and rely on strong project management and communication skills to bring exhibitions to fruition while aligning with institutional goals.

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

To thrive as a Curator, you typically need expertise in art history or a related field, often supported by a master's degree and relevant museum experience. Familiarity with collection management systems, digital cataloging tools, and conservation techniques is commonly required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences set outstanding curators apart. These skills ensure the effective preservation, interpretation, and presentation of collections, which are critical for engaging the public and safeguarding cultural heritage.

What Is a Museum Curators?

Museum curators work with the collection of an entire museum. Part of your job in this career is to oversee the acquisition of new pieces to a collection, either by directly arranging to purchase a piece or providing advice on what pieces to add. You also work with other museums and private collectors in order to arrange for loans and traveling exhibitions. As a museum curator, your duties include supervising staff members, advising on conservation, and writing grant proposals and museum literature. You are also in charge of meeting with trustees and managing programs and research projects that enhance the museum’s mission.

What does a curator do?

A curator is responsible for acquiring, managing, and interpreting collections of artwork, artifacts, or specimens in museums, galleries, or cultural institutions. They organize exhibitions, conduct research, and ensure the preservation of items, often requiring knowledge of conservation techniques and relevant industry standards.

How much money do curators make?

The average salary for a curator is around $45,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the type of institution. Senior or specialized curators can earn over $80,000 annually, especially in large museums or cultural organizations. Many curators also have advanced degrees and skills in curation, research, and collections management.

What is the difference between Curator vs Archivist?

AspectCuratorArchivist
Required CredentialsTypically a master's degree in museum studies, history, or related fieldOften a master's degree in library science, archival studies, or history
Work EnvironmentMuseums, galleries, cultural institutionsArchives, libraries, historical repositories
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in museums and cultural organizations to manage collectionsUsed in archives and institutions to preserve and organize records

While both roles involve managing collections, a Curator primarily oversees museum exhibits and educational programs, whereas an Archivist focuses on preserving and organizing historical records and documents. Both require specialized education and work in cultural or historical settings, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ significantly.

What cities are hiring for Curator jobs? Cities with the most Curator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Curator jobs? The most popular types of Curator jobs are:
What states have the most Curator jobs? States with the most job openings for Curator jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Curator jobs? For Curator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Curator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,627 per year, or $34.9 per hour.

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Description

The National WWII Museum is currently seeking a Curator. Reporting to the Senior Curator and Director of Curatorial Affairs, the Curator is a vital member of the curatorial team and works closely with collections, archives, digitization, exhibits, and education staff members. The Curator participates in the research, proposal, and documentation of acquisitions; publication and presentation on the collection; and will serve as lead on exhibition projects, including the proposal of exhibition themes. This position requires extensive knowledge of WWII material culture, strong written and verbal communication skills, precise attention to detail, and the ability to communicate and work with both scholarly audiences and the general public. A demonstrated team player, the Curator must be able to work independently and collaboratively with a small staff and vigorous work schedule under the guidance of the Senior Curator and Director of Curatorial Affairs.

Requirements

  Collections

  • Work with the entire curatorial team on donor relations and regularly participate in the Museum's Acquisition Review Committee
  • Evaluate, propose, and organize new collections to fill gaps within the Museum's collection
  • Inventory, catalog, and document artifacts and archival items in the Museum's collection management system (Ke EMu)
  • Research, compile, and prepare written information about collections for publication on the institution's website and other channels

  Exhibits

  • Investigate and develop opportunities for temporary special exhibitions in support of the Museum's mission, preparing exhibition proposals 3-4 years in advance for review and approval by department heads and by the President & CEO
  • Actively participate in the development of permanent exhibits and other special projects as needed
  • Select and prepare items for rotation in permanent exhibits across the Museum's campus as assigned

  Education/Programs

  • Work with members of Education to develop, produce, and analyze exhibition-related programming, educational materials, and didactics
  • Prepare and present lectures and other public programs
  • Conduct and/or organize tours, workshops, and instructional sessions to acquaint individuals with the Museum's collections
  • Present on collections and exhibitions to the general public through gallery walks, print and online articles, media opportunities and other venues

  Research

  • Conduct original research on the Museum collections and present and/or publish research in academic and scholarly venues and at appropriate conferences
  • Identify and coordinate research opportunities for scholars and students

  Fundraising

  • Provide support in the preparation of grants and other funding proposals to generate revenue in support of curatorial, collections, and exhibit initiatives
  • Provide information, ideas, suggestions, and assistance to the Institutional Advancement department in the formulation of sponsorship packages for programs, events, exhibits, and other activities

  Marketing and Communications

  • Provide information and assistance to Marketing and Communications department to develop communication and marketing materials and strategies regarding collections, exhibitions, and programs

Qualifications

  • MA in History, Museum Science or related specialty
  • Minimum of four years' experience in a curatorial role at a history museum, cultural center, or similar institution
  • Extensive knowledge of the American Experience during World War II with emphasis on World War II-era material culture; specialization preferred
  • Thorough knowledge of cataloging procedures and standards with a demonstrated ability to work with computerized collections databases
  • Thorough understanding of best practices for collection stewardship
  • Exceptional research and verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong project management and organizational skills
  • Excellent interpersonal skills with a proven ability to work well with colleagues, other employees, donors, lenders, and guests
  • Willingness to work evenings or weekends during special events or heavy visitation periods
  • Willingness to participate in other duties of a manual nature such as moving and warehousing collections, installation of exhibits, and moving/driving macro-artifacts as required

In addition to offering competitive wages, the Museum's benefits package includes: 

  • Medical insurance - 2 plan options; Museum pays 75% of premium 
  • Dental and vision insurance 
  • Flexible spending account 
  • 401(k) - Museum matches 50% of employee contribution up to 6%; employer contribution full vested after 3 years of employment 
  • Life insurance and AD&D - $15,000 policy employer paid; additional life and AD&D available 
  • Long term disability insurance 
  • Paid vacation and sick leave, 10 paid holidays per year 
  • Free parking 
  • Tuition assistance and professional development 
  • Employee assistance program 

The National WWII Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer and seeks diversity in its workforce.  We are dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in employment on any basis including age, sex, race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, or disability.  Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act, applicants may request accommodations needed to participate in the application process.