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Curatorial Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Wyndy LLC

Assistance near available

Mount Prospect, IL · On-site

Assistant Teacher available. Assist with educational activities, provide support to staff, and promote positive learning environment. Qualifications * A love of working with children * Excellent ...

Wyndy LLC

Assistance near available

Gary, IN · On-site

Assistant Teacher available. Assist with educational activities, provide support to staff, and promote positive learning environment. Qualifications * A love of working with children * Excellent ...

Wyndy LLC

Assistance near available

Palos Heights, IL · On-site

Assistant Teacher available. Assist with educational activities, provide support to staff, and promote positive learning environment. Qualifications * A love of working with children * Excellent ...

Wyndy LLC

Assistance near available

Woodridge, IL · On-site

Assistant Teacher available. Assist with educational activities, provide support to staff, and promote positive learning environment. Qualifications * A love of working with children * Excellent ...

Pearl of Hinsdale

Certified Nurse Assistant

Hinsdale, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $26/hr

Join The Pearl of Hinsdale is looking for a Certified Nurse Assistant. We invite you to join our ... center, curating a plan of care that understands the specific needs of each individual. We are ...

CNA

Principal AI Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

At CNA, we strive to create a culture in which people know they matter and are part of something ... and curation, static/dynamic analysis, secret management, and the specific attack vectors ...

CNA

Principal AI Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

At CNA, we strive to create a culture in which people know they matter and are part of something ... and curation, static/dynamic analysis, secret management, and the specific attack vectors ...

Cna

Principal AI Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

At CNA, we strive to create a culture in which people know they matter and are part of something ... and curation, static/dynamic analysis, secret management, and the specific attack vectors ...

Cna

Principal AI Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

At CNA, we strive to create a culture in which people know they matter and are part of something ... and curation, static/dynamic analysis, secret management, and the specific attack vectors ...

Foxtrot

Assistant Store Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$62K/yr

We are committed to building a vibrant food community through the thoughtful curation of makers ... As an Assistant Store Manager you will be trained in all areas of our business and work closely ...

Foxtrot Market

Assistant Store Manager

Chicago, IL

$62K - $65K/yr

We are committed to building a vibrant food community through the thoughtful curation of makers ... As an Assistant Store Manager you will be trained in all areas of our business and work closely ...

Foxtrot Market

Assistant Store Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$62K - $65K/yr

We are committed to building a vibrant food community through the thoughtful curation of makers ... As an Assistant Store Manager you will be trained in all areas of our business and work closely ...

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Curatorial Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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$33

How much do curatorial assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for curatorial assistant in Chicago, IL is $22.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $25.53 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.
More about Curatorial Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Curatorial jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Curatorial jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Curatorial Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Curatorial Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Curatorial Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Curatorial Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Curatorial Assistant jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Curatorial Assistant job openings:

Curatorial Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Curatorial Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,087 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Assistant Conservator, Paper Conservation

Art Institute of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$55K - $62K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Art Institute Of Chicago rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 29 rated museums

Job description

About the Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago shares its singular collections with our city and the world. We collect, care for, and interpret works of art across time, cultures, geographies, and identities. We are a place of gathering and learning, committed to fostering an inclusive understanding of human creativity.
About the Department
Responsible for the treatment, research, and long-term preservation of over 300,000 works of art in the Art Institute's collections, the Department of Conservation and Science is integral to the museum's mission to safeguard the world's artistic and cultural legacy for future generations. Founded in 1956 with a single paintings conservator, the department has grown to a staff of over 30 specializing in nine disciplines organized in five divisions: Objects and Textiles, Paintings and Frames, Paper and Books, Photography and Media, and Scientific Research. Members of the department contribute to the advancement of the field and the broader awareness of conservation issues through multiple avenues of specialized and societal dissemination, are involved in object-based teaching and scientific research, and actively support the education of future conservation and museum professionals.
Position Summary
The Assistant Conservator plays an important role in the preservation, research, and stewardship of works of art on paper and other paper-based collections. Working collaboratively with conservators, scientists, curators, registrars, and collections staff, this position conducts examinations, research, and conservation treatments and supports long-term care of the museum's permanent collection, exhibitions, acquisitions, and loans.
The Assistant Conservator contributes to innovative conservation practices through technical study, scholarly research, and professional engagement. This role also supports the museum's commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where varied perspectives and experiences strengthen our work and mission.
Responsibilities
Treatment and Collection Care
  • Prepare treatment proposals in consultation with the William E. Urschel Family Director of Paper, Photography and Media Conservation and specialty conservators.
  • Examine, assess, and document the condition of works of art on paper and related collection materials.
  • Perform conservation treatments appropriate to the needs of the collection.
  • Utilize technical imaging, material analysis, and other examination methods to inform treatment decisions.
  • Support preventive conservation initiatives in galleries, storage, and transit.
  • Respond to collection emergencies as requested.
Exhibitions, Loans, and Acquisitions
  • Conduct examinations and prepare condition documentation for works entering or leaving the museum.
  • Review and assess works under consideration for acquisition and prepare related conservation documentation.
  • Support exhibitions, including condition reporting, treatment recommendations, and compliance with lender requirements.
  • Serve as an artwork courier, in person or virtually, when needed.
Conservation Records
  • Maintain accurate conservation documentation in departmental, collection management, and digital asset systems in accordance with museum and archival standards.
Materials and Supplies
  • Contribute to laboratory maintenance and safety practices.
  • Research, recommend, and order conservation materials and supplies with the Administrative Coordinator for Conservation and Science.
Collaboration
  • Communicate with colleagues regarding project priorities, goals, and timelines.
  • Collaborate across departments to support collection care, exhibitions, research initiatives, and institutional priorities.
  • Foster an inclusive and respectful work environment that values diverse perspectives, experiences, and contributions.
Research
  • Conduct research on artists' techniques, materials, and conservation methodologies.
  • Contribute to the advancement of the conservation field through scholarly research and investigation.
  • Stay current with emerging technologies and best practices and explore their application to the museum's collections.
  • Perform basic technical analysis following training and collaborate with conservation scientists on advanced scientific investigations.
Communication, Professional Development, and Dissemination
  • Publish and share research findings through museum publications, journals, presentations, social media, and other professional forums.
  • Attend conferences, workshops, and professional meetings.
  • Correspond with conservation professionals, scholars, and researchers regarding technical inquiries and collaborative projects.
  • Participate in public-facing activities, including lectures, tours, and educational programs.
Training and Mentorship
  • Support the supervision and mentorship of interns, volunteers, and visiting scholars.
  • Assist in training art handlers, photographers, and other museum staff on the safe handling and care of collection materials.

Qualifications
  • Master's degree from a recognized conservation training program or equivalent education, training, and experience.
  • Two or more years of postgraduate conservation experience in a museum, library, archive, or related institution.
  • Demonstrated expertise in examining and treating prints, drawings, manuscripts, and other paper-based collections.
  • Knowledge of conservation theory, ethics, treatment methodologies, documentation standards, and preventive conservation.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare reports and convey technical information to diverse audiences.
  • Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
  • Commitment to supporting the museum's efforts to foster a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace.

Compensation & Benefits
Please click on the links below to view our competitive, comprehensive benefits package:
Hiring Range: $55,000-62,000
The expected hiring range is an estimated amount for positions based on the grade. Final offers are based on various factors, including skill set, experience, qualifications and other job-related reasons.
  • Benefits
  • PTO Overview
  • Job Classification: Full time Exempt
  • Employment Category: Full time Staff
  • Grade Level: 7

If you are accessing this listing from a third party, not all links to salary and benefits information may work. Please visit our career page at saic/artic.edu/employment for complete information
Application Instructions
Please submit your resume, cover letter, and short portfolio to be considered for this position.
Union
This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by AFSCME Council 31.
Accessibility
If you are a job seeker with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to apply for one of our jobs, you will find the contact information to request the appropriate accommodation by visiting the following page:
Accessibility Accommodation for Applicants
Equal Opportunity Statement
The Art Institute of Chicago is an Equal Opportunity Employer that recruits, hires and promotes qualified individuals compliant with federal and state laws. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact the Department of Human Resources at apply_help@artic.edu.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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