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Curatorial Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ohio State University

Curatorial Assistant

Columbus, OH · On-site

$21.55 - $27.50/hr

Curatorial Assistant The Wexner Center for the Arts at The Ohio State University is an internationally recognized multidisciplinary contemporary arts center dedicated to supporting artistic ...

Miami University

Curatorial Assistant/Fellow

Oxford, OH · On-site

Curatorial Assistant/Fellow The Richard and Carole Cocks Art Museum (RCCAM) at Miami University seeks a Curatorial Assistant/Fellow to assist the Curator of Exhibitions and museum team members in the ...

Miamioh

Curatorial Assistant/Fellow

Oxford, OH · On-site

Job Title Curatorial Assistant/Fellow Department Art Museum Worker Type Temporary (Fixed Term) Pay Type Period Activity Pay Benefit Eligible Yes Summary The Richard and Carole Cocks Art Museum (RCCAM ...

Glenstone Museum

Curatorial Assistant

Potomac, MD

$49K - $64K/hr

Position Curatorial Assistant Reports To Associate Curator Salary Range $49,000 - $64,000 per year An Introduction to Glenstone Museum Founded with the mission to seamlessly integrate art ...

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How much do curatorial assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 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 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.

What skills should a curatorial assistant have?

A curatorial assistant should have strong research and organizational skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of art history or relevant collections. Proficiency with databases, cataloging systems, and basic administrative tasks is also important, along with good communication skills for collaborating with staff and visitors.
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Curatorial Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Curatorial Assistant job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,709 per year, or $22 per hour.

Curatorial Assistant

Columbus, OH • On-site

The Ohio State University
Scientific Research and Development Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about The Ohio State Universityexternal

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Screen reader users may encounter difficulty with this site. For assistance with applying, please contact hr-accessibleapplication@osu.edu. If you have questions while submitting an application, please review these frequently asked questions.
Current Employees and Students:
If you are currently employed or enrolled as a student at The Ohio State University, please log in to Workday to use the internal application process.
Welcome to The Ohio State University's career site. We invite you to apply to positions of interest. In order to ensure your application is complete, you must complete the following:

  • Ensure you have all necessary documents available when starting the application process. You can review the additional job description section on postings for documents that may be required.
  • Prior to submitting your application, please review and update (if necessary) the information in your candidate profile as it will transfer to your application.
Job Title:
Curatorial Assistant
Department:
Wexner Center for Arts | Administration
The Wexner Center for the Arts at The Ohio State University is an internationally recognized multidisciplinary contemporary arts center dedicated to supporting artistic innovation, experimentation, and public engagement. Through exhibitions, performances, artist residencies, film, education, and public programs, the Wexner Center serves as a laboratory for the exploration of contemporary culture and ideas. The Center is committed to fostering meaningful connections between artists, students, scholars, and the broader community.
Position Summary
The Curatorial Assistant is an important member of the Visual Arts department, providing research, exhibition, project management, and administrative support to the curatorial team. This position offers an exceptional opportunity for an emerging museum professional to gain broad experience in the development and realization of ambitious contemporary art exhibitions, publications, commissions, and public programs.
The ideal candidate will be highly organized, intellectually curious, detail-oriented, and passionate about contemporary art. They will possess excellent research, writing, communication, and project management skills, along with the ability to manage multiple long-term and short-term projects simultaneously.
This is a full-time, limited-term appointment of two years, with the possibility of a one-year extension (maximum three years total) based on exceptional performance and departmental needs. The position includes a six-month probationary period.
Monday-Friday, with occasional evening and weekend hours required for exhibition openings, public programs, installations, and special events
Qualifications
Required
  • Bachelor's degree in Art History, Curatorial Studies, Museum Studies, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and professional experience.
  • 0-2 years of relevant experience
  • Demonstrated knowledge of modern and contemporary art.
  • Strong research, writing, editing, and organizational skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining exceptional attention to detail.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and collaborative project-management tools.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a fast-paced environment.
Preferred
  • Master's degree in Art History, Curatorial Studies, Museum Studies,
  • Prior museum, gallery, non-profit arts organization, or academic curatorial experience.
  • Experience supporting contemporary art exhibitions, publications, or artist commissions.
  • Familiarity with collections management or exhibition databases.
  • Experience working with artists, galleries, lenders, and arts professionals.
  • Knowledge of current issues and discourse in contemporary art and curatorial practice.
  • Experience writing for both scholarly and public audiences.
Physical Requirements
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
  • Ability to work at a computer for extended periods.
  • Ability to move throughout galleries, offices, storage areas, and event spaces.
  • Occasional lifting, carrying, or moving of materials up to 25 pounds.
  • Occasional evening and weekend work required.
Compensation and Benefits
The Curatorial Assistant is a full-time benefits-eligible position through The Ohio State University. Salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. Eligible employees receive access to university benefits, including health insurance, retirement programs, paid time off, professional development opportunities, and other university-supported resources.
Application Process
Applicants should submit:
  • Cover Letter
  • Curriculum Vitae or Resume
  • Writing Sample (5-10 pages preferred)
  • Contact information for three professional references

The Wexner Center for the Arts and The Ohio State University encourage applications from individuals whose experiences and perspectives will contribute to the vitality and excellence of the institution.
Additional Information:
Position is a member of the American Federation of State, County, & Municipal Employees Local 322, Ohio Council 8, AFL-CIO.
The target hourly range for this job profile is $21.55-$27.50. The actual salary paid to an individual will vary based on multiple factors, including but not limited to, education, years of experience, internal equity, etc.
Location:
Wexner Center for the Arts (0386)
Position Type:
Regular
Scheduled Hours:
40
Shift:
First Shift
Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check. A drug screen or physical may be required during the post offer process.
Thank you for your interest in positions at The Ohio State University and Wexner Medical Center. Once you have applied, the most updated information on the status of your application can be found by visiting the Candidate Home section of this site. Please view your submitted applications by logging in and reviewing your status. For answers to additional questions please review the frequently asked questions.
The university is an equal opportunity employer, including veterans and disability.

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