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Curator Jobs in Oklahoma (NOW HIRING)

The University of Oklahoma

Curator Archivist

Norman, OK · On-site

$18.99/hr

Curator Archivist Job no: 493385 Work type: Professional hourly Location: Norman Categories: Arts, Media & Communications Pay Range: Targeted salary $18.99 per hour, based on experience Benefits ...

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Curator information

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$110.3K

How much do curator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for curator in Oklahoma is $67,059.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,200.00 and $86,800.00 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.
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Curator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Curator job openings in Oklahoma as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,059 per year, or $32.2 per hour.

Curator Archivist

The University of Oklahoma

Norman, OK • On-site

$18.99/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

University Of Oklahoma rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

169th of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Curator Archivist
Job no: 493385
Work type: Professional hourly
Location: Norman
Categories: Arts, Media & Communications
Pay Range: Targeted salary $18.99 per hour, based on experience
Benefits Eligible: Yes
Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (may include some weekends)
Travel: May be required
For Best Consideration Date: 8/1/2026
Position Introduction:
The Curator Archivist is responsible for the daily curatorial operations and management of the SNOMNH Fish Collection. Develop and maintain the collection, database, and support research and exhibition programs. Maintain the Fish Collection website, including the online database and image library. Ensure proper permits and documentation for field collection and loan and exchange of museum specimens. Assist curator, faculty, scholars, and students in obtaining and identifying specimens for their research projects. Assist in organizing and preparing presentations and programs highlighting collection materials and research activities. Train and supervise students, interns and volunteers, and helping visitors make use of the collection.
View full job description
Required Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree.

Department Preferences:
  • Graduate degree (M.S. or PhD) in a discipline relevant to natural history collections, such as Biology, Biological Sciences, Museum
  • Studies, or a related field, with an emphasis in fish biology.
  • 36-48 months of collection-related experience in natural history museum collections, including some to all the following: curation, collection and database management, registration, digitization, and preparation of fish specimens (wet and dry collections), or academic experience working with collections in a museum, educational or similar public institution.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of fish systematics and biology.
  • Experience in the preparation and preservation of fishes and genomic resources.
  • Experience with database management and relational databases and knowledge of external data repositories such as GBIF.
  • Proficiency in using microscopes and other equipment essential for laboratory biological collections work.
  • SCUBA certification (e.g., PADI/SSI Open Water or higher).

Hiring Contingent Upon a Background Check: Yes
Advertised: 10 Jul 2026 Central Daylight Time
Applications close: 08 Oct 2026 Central Daylight Time
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About University of Oklahoma

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The University of Oklahoma is a prominent educational institution positioned in Norman, Oklahoma, US. Established in 1890, the university stakes a claim within the higher education industry and has a storied history of excellence in academics and research. Serving over 20,000 students, the university offers a wide range of programs across fields such as arts and sciences, business, engineering, international studies, and more. Emphasizing a dedication to unlocking potential, OU's mission is to provide the best possible educational experience to students through excellence in teaching, research, and creative activity. Notably, the institution has made significant strides in research with a focus on areas such as cancer, aerospace, and energy among others.

Industry

Education

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Norman, OK, US

Year founded

1890

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