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Curatorial Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Harvard University

Curatorial Assistant II

Boston, MA · On-site

The Curatorial Assistant conducts curatorial tasks in the Herbarium of Cultivated Plants, inventories plants in the living collections, and supports other plant records and curatorial initiatives ...

Peoria Park District

Curatorial Assistant - IT

Peoria, IL · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Under the close supervision of the Assistant Zoo Director/Collections Curator, the Curatorial Assistant/IT is responsible for the following: * Preparing and distributing of media tools regarding the ...

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How much do curatorial assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for curatorial assistant in the United States is $21.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Curatorial Assistant?

Curatorial assistants assist the curators with the daily operations of a museum, art gallery, or historical site. They perform a number of different functions, depending on the type of facility in which they work. Museum curatorial assistants may set up and tear down exhibits, straighten up visitor areas, and distribute educational materials to patrons. In an art gallery, they may be responsible for organizing the viewing presentations and schedule for featured artists. Historical buildings utilize curatorial assistants to authenticate artifacts found at the site.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Curatorial Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Curatorial Assistant, you generally need a background in art history, museum studies, or a related field, often supported by a bachelor's degree. Familiarity with collection management software, digital cataloging systems, and basic research tools is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for excelling in this role. These competencies ensure accurate collections care, seamless exhibition planning, and effective collaboration with curators and other museum staff.

What are some typical challenges Curatorial Assistants face when supporting exhibition planning?

Curatorial Assistants often encounter challenges like managing tight deadlines, coordinating with multiple departments, and ensuring the accuracy of cataloging and documentation. Balancing administrative duties with research tasks can be demanding, especially during periods of exhibition preparation. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are crucial, as Curatorial Assistants frequently collaborate with registrars, conservators, and external lenders to ensure the smooth execution of exhibitions.

What are Curatorial Assistants?

Curatorial Assistants are professionals who support curators in museums, galleries, or cultural institutions with the planning, organization, and management of collections and exhibitions. Their duties often include researching objects, handling administrative tasks, cataloguing items, assisting with exhibit installation, and communicating with artists or lenders. They play a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of curatorial projects and help facilitate public engagement with art and historical artifacts.

What is the difference between Curatorial Assistant vs Collections Assistant?

AspectCuratorial AssistantCollections Assistant
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in art history, museum studies, or related fieldBachelor's degree often in museum studies, art, or related field
Work EnvironmentMuseums, galleries, cultural institutions, assisting curatorsMuseums, archives, or collections management departments
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in museums and art institutionsIn museums, galleries, and cultural organizations
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in curatorial teamsUnderstanding roles in collections management

The main difference is that a Curatorial Assistant supports curators with research, exhibition planning, and educational programs, while a Collections Assistant focuses on cataloging, preserving, and managing collections. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work in museum environments, but their specific responsibilities differ based on whether they support curatorial activities or collections management.

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Curatorial Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Curatorial Assistant job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $45,709 per year, or $22 per hour.
Curatorial Assistant

Curatorial Assistant

University of New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$14/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

University Of New Mexico rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

63rd of 529 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Requisition ID
req36600
Working Title
Curatorial Assistant
Pay
$14.00 Hourly
Campus
Main - Albuquerque, NM
Department
AS Biology General Administrative (048F)
Employment Type
Student Employment
Student Type
Student Employment
Status
Non-Exempt
Background Check Required
For Best Consideration Date
5/21/2026
Position Summary
Assists in processing data from audio dataloggers, GPS units, and temperature sensors. Helps with processing specimens, including data, dissections, and preservation.
Minimum Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications
  • Some experience in data-critical settings
  • Experience in managing data in different forms, including transcribing information into digital form forms

Application Instructions
Only applications submitted through the official UNMJobs site will be accepted. If you are viewing this job advertisement on a 3rd party site, please visit UNMJobs to submit an application.
Submit a resume, cover letter and transcript with UNMJobs application.
The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.

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