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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

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

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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All JobsCurator JobsCurator Jobs in Michigan

Curator information

See Michigan salary details

$22.2K

$63.3K

$104.2K

How much do curator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 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 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 Michigan? The most popular types of Curator jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Curator jobs in Michigan? For Curator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Curator jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Curator jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Curator jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Curator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Curator jobs in MI? For Curator jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Curator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Curator job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,301 per year, or $30.4 per hour.
Associate Curator of Mammals

Associate Curator of Mammals

Detroit Zoological Society

Royal Oak, MI

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

General Description
The Associate Curator of Mammals, Primates and Large Carnivores, assists in the development, maintenance and oversight of animal care and welfare practices for the Mammal Department including daily oversight of staff and facility operations, repair, and maintenance.
The Associate Curator of Mammals will support, both publicly and privately, the principles of the Detroit Zoological Society, maintain a professional manner when dealing with all constituencies, and always preserve a high level of confidentiality.
This job description is by no means all-inclusive and may be subject to change during a performance period due to the needs of the Detroit Zoological Society and its leadership. This document will be reviewed on a continual basis and will be modified as needed.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
  • Provide oversight of all Mammal Department operations, including animal care and welfare, staff training, habitat maintenance, research, guest interaction activities, special events and other projects as needed.
  • Coordinate with other Life Science Departments for supervisory coverage as needed.
  • Create staff schedules to ensure optimum care of animals and exceptional conditions for guests.
  • Supervise subordinate Mammal Department staff including goal setting, team building, adherence to protocols, and evaluations.
  • Assist in coordinating and executing animal transactions including paperwork, permits, and transports.
  • Participate in recruitment and selection of Mammal Department staff.
  • Ensure scheduled maintenance of equipment and facilities.
  • Submit work orders for the repair of equipment and facilities.
  • Coordinate animal health and other medical procedures with veterinary staff.
  • Assist in preparation and monitoring of budgets as required.
  • Maintain records and provide written and verbal reports as required.
  • Conduct emergency response drills to ensure emergency preparedness.
  • Conduct and/or coordinate research projects.
  • Assist in executing the Living Animal Plan by researching and identifying new mammal species that will meet strategic goals toward increasing our animal population while contributing to AZA conservation programs and creating engaging guest experiences.
  • Contribute to strategic and other institutional planning processes.
  • Contribute to planning for major/minor capital improvement projects for the Mammal Department.
  • Ensure mammal areas exceed AZA accreditation standards and USDA animal welfare standards.
  • Participate in cooperative management programs, such as studbooks, Population Management Plans, Species Survival Plans and Taxon Advisory Groups.
  • Develop and conduct presentations at professional meetings.
  • Conduct educational presentations in both formal and informal settings.
  • Perform other duties as required.

Qualifications
Education and Experience
  • Bachelor’s degree in zoology or a closely related discipline.
  • Four years of experience in the care of captive wildlife.
  • Three years of supervisory experience.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Must have strong decision-making and problem-solving skills, excellent verbal and written communication skills, team building, and effective time management skills.
Preferred
  • Advanced academic achievement.
  • Experience in a curatorial, education or research capacity.

Working Conditions
Work is performed indoors and outdoors with exposure to all seasonal weather conditions, with frequent exposure to and contact with dangerous animals, with risk of zoonotic disease transmission (Hepatitis B, Herpes B, Tuberculosis, Salmonella and others), and with exposure to computer monitors. Weekend and evening work will be required as necessary.
Physical Requirements
The ability to perform principal duties is required. The Associate Curator of Mammals must be able to lift and move objects weighing up to 50 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
Just as we value and celebrate biodiversity, the DZS celebrates the diversity of our human community. We are committed to ensuring that our programs and facilities are fully accessible to create a welcoming and inclusive workplace for all.

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