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Curator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Curator of Public Programming

Dearborn, MI · On-site

Curator, Public Programming Job Status: Full-time Job Summary: Under limited supervision, the Curator of Public Programming uses specialized knowledge in Arab American and Middle Eastern studies ...

ACCESS

Curator of Public Programming

Dearborn, MI · On-site

Curator, Public Programming Job Status: Full-time Job Summary: Under limited supervision, the Curator of Public Programming uses specialized knowledge in Arab American and Middle Eastern studies ...

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Curator information

See Michigan salary details

$22.2K

$63.3K

$104.2K

How much do curator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for curator in Michigan is $63,301.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,600.00 and $81,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a curator?

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

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 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 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.

Do I need a degree to be a curator?

A degree is often required to become a curator, with many positions requiring a bachelor's degree in art history, museum studies, or a related field. Advanced roles may require a master's degree or higher, along with relevant experience and skills in collection management and preservation.

Do curators make a lot of money?

Curators typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and the institution. Salaries can be higher for senior or specialized curators, especially in large museums or private collections, and often require a relevant degree and knowledge of art, history, or science. Compensation varies widely based on the employer and geographic region.

What qualifications do you need to be a curator?

To become a curator, a bachelor's degree in art history, museum studies, archaeology, or a related field is typically required, with many positions preferring a master's degree or higher. Relevant experience in collections management, research, or exhibition planning, along with strong organizational and communication skills, are also important qualifications.
More about Curator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Curator jobs in Michigan?

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Curator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Curator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,301 per year, or $30.4 per hour.

Associate Curator

Museum of African American History

Detroit, MI • On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Description:

General Summary of Duties

A vital member of The Wright Staff, the Associate Curator is the driving force behind the identity of the museum’s curatorial programming, as well as the overall identity of The Wright at large. The Associate Curator significantly contributes to The Wright’s vision and ongoing growth.

This dynamic position includes speaking engagements acting as a representative of the institution, supervision of exhibition realization, ongoing collaboration with development and education teams, and multifaceted interaction with the community.


Essential Duties of the Position:

Exhibitions

  • Develop and manage exhibitions and installations in the galleries as well as satellite projects outside the building/in the community.
  • Curate exhibitions and produce supporting content for publications.
  • Foster ongoing collaborative relationships with artists for existing and future exhibitions
    Alongside the VP of Exhibitions & Collections, approve final schedule of forthcoming exhibitions.
  • Oversee installation and de-installation of exhibitions, including staff responsible for arranging crating, shipping, insurance, contracts, travel policies, and artwork loan agreements.
    Formulate and maintain budgets for exhibitions.
  • Work with a variety of vendors and companies during the production process of exhibitions (fabricators, custom framers, painters, etc.)
  • Collaborate with VP of Learning & Engagement to coordinate complementary materials including wall text, brochure content, and artist talks.

Directorial Duties/Community Outreach

  • Help shape The Wright’s creative vision through innovative programming and operational ideas.
  • Make key decisions regarding planning and budget.
  • Serve as a spokesperson for The Wright in the community and beyond.
  • Moderate and facilitate artist panels and discussions.
  • Initiate new forms of artist and museum engagement with the public.

External Affairs/PR/Development

  • Provide interviews to local, national, and international media contacts.
  • Collaborate with development team for grant and sponsorship proposals.
  • Cultivate relationships with museum sponsors.
  • Contribute to press releases on exhibitions.
Requirements:

Required Education and Experience:

  • Master’s degree in Art History, Fine Arts, History, arts administration, or related field required.
  • Minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in a museum or commercial gallery environment.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

  • Natural command for approaching exhibition-making in a critical, innovative capacity.
    Highly motivated, ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, and to work independently as well as in a team environment.
  • Maintains highest standards of integrity, including confidentiality of privileged information
    Excellent writing and public speaking abilities.
  • Knowledge of museum management, collections/exhibitions management, curatorial principles and practices.
  • High level of attention to detail, accuracy, and ability to set and meet deadlines.
  • Personable demeanor.