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Curator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

UC San Diego

Curator - 140598

San Diego, CA · On-site

$37.93 - $68.68/hr

Assume full curatorial duties and manage the unit in collaboration with curatorial team and in the absence of the CACSCO QUALIFICATIONS * Five (5) or more years experience managing an aquatic animal ...

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Curator information

See California salary details

$25.2K

$71.7K

$117.9K

How much do curator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for curator in California is $71,675.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $92,800.00 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 and preservation are also important qualifications.

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 managing and overseeing collections of artwork, historical items, or scientific specimens in museums, galleries, or similar institutions. Their duties often include acquiring new items, organizing exhibitions, conducting research, and ensuring proper care and documentation of the collection. Curators also work to engage the public through educational programs and collaborate with other professionals in the field. They play a key role in shaping the narrative and presentation of a collection to educate and inspire visitors.

What is the job of a curator?

A curator is responsible for selecting, organizing, and managing collections of artwork, artifacts, or specimens in museums, galleries, or cultural institutions. They conduct research, develop exhibitions, and ensure proper preservation and documentation of items, often requiring knowledge of art history, science, or related fields. Curators also collaborate with staff and the public to interpret and promote collections effectively.

Do curators get paid well?

Curators' salaries vary depending on the industry, experience, and location, but generally, they earn a median annual wage of around $50,000 to $70,000. Professionals with specialized skills, advanced degrees, or working in high-profile institutions can earn higher salaries. Compensation also depends on the size and funding of the organization and whether the role involves additional responsibilities like research or curation 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.

More about Curator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Curator jobs in California? The most popular types of Curator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Curator jobs in California? For Curator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Curator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Curator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Curator jobs? Cities in California with the most Curator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Curator jobs in CA? For Curator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Curator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Curator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,675 per year, or $34.5 per hour.

Curator - 140598

University of California San Diego

San Diego, CA • On-site

$79K - $111K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

University Of California San Diego rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

154th of 614 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Payroll Title:
CURATOR 4 Department:
AQUARIUM-MUSEUM Hiring Pay Scale
$79,200 - $111, 300/ Annually Worksite:
SIO Appointment Type:
Career Appointment Percent:
100% Union:
Uncovered Total Openings:
1 Work Schedule:
8 hrs/day, Days, 8 hrs/day, Sun-Thursday 8-5pm
#140598 Curator
Filing Deadline: Sun 8/2/2026
Apply Now
UC San Diego values and welcomes people from all backgrounds. If you are interested in being part of our team, possess the needed licensure and certifications, and feel that you have most of the qualifications and/or transferable skills for a job opening, we strongly encourage you to apply.
UCSD Layoff from Career Appointment : Apply by 07/22/2026 for consideration with preference for rehire. All layoff applicants should contact their Employment Advisor.
Reassignment Applicants : Eligible Reassignment clients should contact their Disability Counselor for assistance.
DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW
At the Birch Aquarium at Scripps, we connect understanding to protecting our ocean planet. As the public outreach center for Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UC San Diego, we share the spirit of curiosity that drives Scripps' global research to understand our planet. We engage people in science and invite them to ask questions, explore, and observe to better understand how our world works - Earth, ocean, atmosphere, and life - and our unique role in our global ecosystem. We use science to guide conservation action to support a healthy thriving planet where we feel hope for the future and empowered to make positive change. We connect people with each other, with nature, with science, and with a shared sense of purpose to care for our amazing one-and-only planet Earth.
Our values can be found here: https://aquarium.ucsd.edu/about/mission
Job Location: Birch Aquarium is located at 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA 92037
POSITION DESCRIPTION
Under general direction of the Chief Animal Care, Science and Conservation Officer (CACSCO) co-direct the Husbandry unit within the Birch Aquarium, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UCSD, which involves administration, operation, life support and animal husbandry functions. Direct and manage the functions and activities of aquarium personnel involved in routine and technical aspects of installation, operation, repair or maintenance of aquarium property, and collection, health and maintenance of aquarium animals. Assume full curatorial duties and manage the unit in collaboration with curatorial team and in the absence of the CACSCO
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Five (5) or more years experience managing an aquatic animal husbandry unit at a zoo, aquarium, or other related attraction.
  • Five (5) or more years experience of coral husbandry, health and propagation. Extensive experience managing diverse populations for scientific advancement and conservation.
  • Knowledge of aquarium planning and design of displays and exhibits, general husbandry and method of behavior.
  • Specialized knowledge of aquarium water systems and associated life-support equipment.
  • AAUS Divers Certification and ability to maintain active diver status as well as lead a team of dive staff in the field and aquarium setting.
  • Specialized knowledge of the husbandry required to maintain and display marine organisms in aquaria.
  • Knowledge of behavioral interactions of marine animals in aquaria.
  • Knowledge of common diseases of marine organisms and the appropriate treatment protocols.
  • Specialization in an area of the museum's collection and knowledge of standard museum curatorial practices.
  • Knowledge of collection building / connoisseurship, ethical and legal standards for acquisition, and of the current market.
  • Knowledge of selection, evaluation, and exhibition of objects.
  • Knowledge of the principles of conservation / preservation.
  • Donor cultivation and relationship building skills.
  • Skills in scholarly research and writing scholarly publications.
  • Demonstrated competency with and commitment to fostering fairness, respect, and inclusion in alignment with the Principles of Community.
  • Advanced degree in related area and / or equivalent experience / training
SPECIAL CONDITIONS
  • Ability to work weekends/holidays as needed.
  • Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results.
  • Will be required to hold valid driver's license and have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies/procedures.
Pay Transparency Act
Annual Full Pay Range: $79,200 - $143,400 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)
Hourly Equivalent: $37.93 - $68.68
Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).
Apply Now
If employed by the University of California, you will be required to comply with our Policy on Vaccination Programs, which may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.
To foster the best possible working and learning environment, UC San Diego strives to cultivate a rich and diverse environment, inclusive and supportive of all students, faculty, staff and visitors. For more information, please visit UC San Diego Principles of Community .
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
For the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
UC San Diego is a smoke and tobacco free environment. Please visit smokefree.ucsd.edu for more information.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer.
a. "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies governing employee conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, or discrimination, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC's policies addressing some forms of misconduct:
  • UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
  • UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
  • Abusive Conduct in the Workplace

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