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Curator Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Miamioh

Curatorial Assistant/Fellow

Oxford, OH · On-site

This a two year position (24 months) intended for an early career curator, arts researcher, or art historian who is a recent post-graduate in art history, curatorial practices or a related field.

Cincinnati Art Museum

Paid Internship

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

The Curatorial Intern will assist in cataloging and processing a transformational gift of 85 modern and contemporary enamel objects. This collection will be integrated into the Decorative Arts ...

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All JobsCurator JobsCurator Jobs in Ohio

Curator information

See Ohio salary details

$24.2K

$69K

$113.6K

How much do curator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for curator in Ohio is $69,046.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,500.00 and $89,400.00 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 Ohio? The most popular types of Curator jobs in Ohio are:
What are popular job titles related to Curator jobs in Ohio? For Curator jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Curator jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Curator jobs in Ohio are:
What are popular job titles related to Curator jobs in OH? For Curator jobs in OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Curator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Curator job openings in Ohio as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,046 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

Curator of Earth Sciences

People Architects

Cleveland, OH

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Curator of Earth Sciences


People Architects is proud to partner with the Cleveland Museum of Natural History as we search for a Curator of Earth Sciences. Founded in 1920, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History is located in the heart of University Circle, five miles east of downtown Cleveland, Ohio. For more than a century, the Museum has inspired visitors to connect with the wonders of science and nature. Today, we continue that legacy-and remain committed to sharing our resources to promote a healthy future for both humans and the planet.


As Ohio's largest natural history museum, we use our vast collections and state-of-the-art facilities to contribute to scientific understanding worldwide. Our scientists conduct research across a variety of disciplines, making groundbreaking discoveries about early human ancestors, ancient Ohio, animal and plant life around the world, and more. We steward more than 12,500 acres of wild habitats through our Natural Areas Program, working to protect the environment of northern Ohio and the diverse species that call it home.


The Museum is seeking a creative and dynamic professional to join our Earth Sciences curatorial team.


Job Summary

The Curator of Earth Sciences is a museum scientist who runs an independent research program as part of a team of interdisciplinary curators. They will serve as a scientific expert for the museum in areas such as geodiversity, deep time, history of life, ancient Ohio, and planetary processes. The Curator engages in public outreach and engagement, working to translate scientific information into accessible, compelling content that enhances public interest and knowledge. In addition to informal educational opportunities, the Curator trains students through Museum-supported undergraduate work study, internships for high school and college students, and volunteer opportunities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities -
Equally divided, with 1/3 (33.3%) devoted to research, 1/3 to public engagement, and 1/3 to institutional services.

  • Conduct relevant fieldwork, collection-based, or laboratory research in support of an established research program. Adapt or build a research program that supports the Museum's mission and utilizes our galleries, collections, and/or natural areas. Present research results in academic forums such as peer-reviewed scientific journals and conferences.
  • Seek external funding to support research activities and manage the research budgets.
  • Oversee Research Assistant staff members, volunteers, students, interns, and other specialized staff involved in research activities.
  • Establish collaborative networks that can enhance the reach and application of the research program.
  • Contribute accurate and relevant scientific content for Museum projects, including reports, marketing materials, and public engagement. Serve as the content provider in the development of CMNH temporary and traveling exhibits.
  • In collaboration with philanthropy, lead tours, meet with donors, and develop content in support of fundraising activities.
  • Collaborate with collections management staff to create and implement collection strategies and access, including reviewing external research requests. Provide advisement and assistance for the care and access to collections.
  • Develop or enable academic partnerships for student training aligned with research program and Museum priorities.
  • Adhere to the CMNH Collections Policy Manual.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

  • Ph.D. in Geology, Hydrology, Paleoecology, Geomorphology, Paleoclimatology, or a related field and 3-5 years of experience required.
  • Experience securing external funding and researchpublications required.
  • Research focus related to Northeast Ohio, the Lake Erie Basin, and/or the Museum's collections and natural area preserves preferred.

Required Application Materials

  • CV/Resume
  • Research Statement
  • Cover Letter
  • Must include a museum integration plan that speaks to the science communication experience, community outreach, and use of Museum resources such as collections.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Expert knowledge of geodiversity, deep time, history of life, ancient Ohio, planetary processes, and best-practice research methodology.
  • Proven ability to plan, direct, report on, and secure external funding to support research activities.
  • Strong ability to communicate scientific materials in accessible, compelling ways to engage with diverse audiences.
  • Proven ability to manage research personnel, including students, interns, and volunteers.
  • Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite products.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication, problem-solving, and listening skills.
  • Ability to work independently, within interdisciplinary teams, and as a leader on large-scale projects.
  • Ability to follow all established Museum operating, safety, environmental, and quality policies.
  • Ability to function in a fast-paced environment with time constraints and meet deadlines with competing priorities.

Working Conditions

  • This position includes working indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Position may require sitting, walking, standing, or working at a computer for prolonged periods of time.
  • Mustbe able to lift 50lbs with or without reasonable accommodation.


The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is an Equal Opportunity, ADA Employer and a Substance Free workspace.
* no agencies/3rd parties

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