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Curator Jobs in Springfield, VA (NOW HIRING)

Strathmore

Curator

North Bethesda, MD · On-site

The curator is responsible for shaping the season with contrasting exhibitions complementing coinciding exhibits. The position ensures that artists are prepared and able to increase their network ...

Strathmore

Curator

North Bethesda, MD · On-site

The curator is responsible for shaping the season with contrasting exhibitions complementing coinciding exhibits. The position ensures that artists are prepared and able to increase their network ...

Glenstone Museum

Curatorial Assistant

Potomac, MD · On-site

$49K - $64K/hr

... Curator Salary Range $49,000 - $64,000 per year An Introduction to Glenstone Museum Founded with the mission to seamlessly integrate art, architecture, and nature, Glenstone is a world-class ...

Chenega MIOS SBU

Data Manager / Curator

Arlington, VA · On-site

Chenega Military, Intelligence & Operations Support (MIOS) is seeking a Data Manager / Curator to support data governance, data lifecycle management, and data quality initiatives. The role involves ...

Chenega MIOS

Data Manager / Curator

Arlington, VA · On-site

$137K/yr

Req ID: 40891 Summary Data Manager / Curator Arlington, VA Are you ready to enhance your skills and build your career in a rapidly evolving business climate? Are you looking for a career where ...

First Title Services

REO Title Curative

Rockville, MD · On-site

The ideal candidate has experience in the correction of chain of title issues, working with underwriters regarding curative actions and title claims, and actions regarding outstanding taxes and tax ...

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All JobsCurator JobsCurator Jobs in Springfield, VA

Curator information

See Springfield, VA salary details

$26.6K

$75.9K

$124.8K

How much do curator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for curator in Springfield, VA is $75,860.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,200.00 and $98,200.00 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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The top searched job categories for Curator jobs in Springfield, VA are:

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Curator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Curator job openings in Springfield, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,860 per year, or $36.5 per hour.

Curator

Strathmore

North Bethesda, MD • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY The Mansion at Strathmore is seeking a collaborative and intellectually curious Curator for our Invitational Gallery. The position supports one of Strathmore's core values to Nourish Potential by supporting emerging and mid-career artists within Montgomery County and the DMV Region. The curator is responsible for shaping the season with contrasting exhibitions complementing coinciding exhibits.

The position ensures that artists are prepared and able to increase their network based on their individual exhibition goals. The curator will expand relationships with regional college art programs as well as identify non-traditionally trained artists through various art networks. Other aspects of the job include creating Instagram content to facilitate artist network and growth, generating exhibition interpretation, leading gallery tours, and providing curatorial support in the Sculpture Garden.

This is an in-office, position with telework options, evening hours for events, and 1-2 Saturdays per quarter. RESPONSIBILITIES Identifies potential artists, provides artist background material and exhibition images, and officially invites artists to participate in the season. Additionally, the curator remains in contact with the artists through the artmaking process until the exhibition closes, and artwork is retrieved by buyers and artists.

Manages contracts, stipends and resources effectively in close collaboration with related internal departments. Develops, maintains, and strengthens relationships with members of the broader arts community including artists, curators, educators, writers, journalists, collectors, and cultural institutions in our region. Represents the Invitational Gallery and fosters relationships with regional college art programs, non-traditionally trained artists, or external curators, galleries, artists, to advance our support of emerging artists.

Assists with coordination of logistical needs for artists and studio visits Provides curatorial and administrative support for the sculpture garden, identifying potential artists and helping manage a sculpture rotation plan. Ensures accuracy of information in publications in print and online. Assists in the development, copyediting, design, and production of didactic materials, such as wall text, labels, gallery guides, and other content.

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