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Curatorial Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Unf

Assistant Curator

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$42K/yr

Department MOCA, Curatorial Compensation $42,000.00 Annual General Description The Assistant Curator reports to the Senior Curator and collaborates with the Curatorial team to support the planning ...

Katonah Museum of Art

Administrative Assistant

Katonah, NY

$19 - $25.50/hr

The Administrative Assistant reports to the Director and Chief Curator and provides administrative support relating to curatorial, fundraising and special events initiatives at the Museum. The wide ...

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How much do curatorial assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 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 does a curatorial assistant do?

A curatorial assistant supports museum or gallery curators by helping with research, cataloging collections, preparing exhibitions, and managing administrative tasks. They often use collections management software and need strong organizational skills to assist in the care and display of artworks or artifacts.

How much do assistant curators get paid?

Assistant curators typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the institution. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or advanced degrees can earn higher salaries. Benefits often include professional development opportunities and access to museum collections.

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.

How to become a curator with no experience?

To become a curator with no experience, start by gaining relevant education such as a degree in art history, museum studies, or a related field. Volunteer or intern at museums or galleries to build practical skills and network within the industry, and develop knowledge of collections management, research, and exhibit planning.

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 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 collection management software and good communication abilities are also important for coordinating exhibitions and supporting curatorial staff.

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 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 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
Assistant Curator

Assistant Curator

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL • On-site

$42K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

University Of North Florida rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 538 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department
MOCA, Curatorial
Compensation
$42,000.00 Annual
General Description
The Assistant Curator reports to the Senior Curator and collaborates with the Curatorial team to support the planning, development, and execution of exhibitions and programs under the Arts UNF umbrella at MOCA and the University of North Florida (UNF) campus. This position assists with the care and interpretation of MOCA and UNF permanent collections, conducts original scholarly research, and ensures adherence to the highest professional standards. The role emphasizes exhibition coordination, research, writing, and community engagement to advance MOCA's mission and enhance audience experience.
Job Functions
Exhibition Development
  • Collaborate with the Senior Curator to plan and implement featured exhibitions and permanent collection presentations.
  • Assist with research, timelines, checklists, and logistics for exhibitions, including securing loans and coordinating with the Registrar and Preparator.
  • Contribute to exhibition interpretation, layouts, and graphic identity.
  • Propose and curate or co-curate exhibitions as assigned.

Research and Writing
  • Draft and edit exhibition texts, including labels, didactics, proposals, and web content.
  • Support the publishing process with proofreading, fact-checking, and publication coordination.
Community Engagement
  • Participate in donor and community relations at events, including receptions, programs and fundraisers, serving as a positive museum representative.
  • Lead exhibition-related public programs and tours for diverse audiences.
  • Cultivate relationships with artists, curators, educators, and cultural institutions nationally and internationally.

Administrative Support
  • Prepare agreements for artists, writers, and designers.
  • Monitor exhibition budgets and assist with departmental planning.
  • Maintain accurate object files and exhibition records.
  • Provide materials for marketing and social media updates.
  • Oversee interns and volunteers assigned to the department.
  • Assist with preparing reports and presentations for Board and committee meetings.
  • Support copyright permissions and image licensing coordination.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities
Oversees interns and volunteers within the Curatorial Department.
Required Qualifications
Master's and 2+ years of relevant experience or Bachelor's degree and 4+ years of relevant experience. Or an equivalent combination of education and experience pursuant to Fla. Stat. 112.219.Departmental Requirements
  • Knowledge of, and experience in, the field of contemporary art.
  • Experience in developing exhibitions.
  • Object-based experience and knowledge of best practices for object handling and care.
  • Strong writing, editing, and research abilities.
  • Proficient in crafting persuasive and informative content.
  • Effective supervisory and leadership skills.
  • Maintain discretion with confidential information.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Team environment with frequent group meeting participation.
  • Willingness to work evenings and weekends, occasional travel.

Statement(s) of Understanding
This position requires a background check. In conjunction with the University's policy, this position may also require a credit check.
The holder of this position is designated as a "Responsible Employee" pursuant to their role under Title IX. Therefore, the incumbent must promptly report allegations of sexual misconduct, sexual violence, and child sexual abuse by or against any student, employee, contractor, or visitor to the University's Title IX Administrator or any divisional Title IX Coordinator
Equal Opportunity
The University of North Florida (UNF) is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all who interact in our community. In building this environment, we strive to attract students, faculty and staff from a variety of cultures, backgrounds and life experiences. The University of North Florida does not commit or permit discrimination or harassment on the basis of genetic information, race, color, religion, age, sex, disability, marital status, national origin, or veteran status in any educational, employment, social, recreational program or activity that it offers. In addition, UNF will not commit or permit retaliation against an individual who reports discrimination or harassment or an individual who cooperates in an investigation of an alleged violation of university regulation.
Carnegie
UNF is a Carnegie Community Engaged Institution. This designation celebrates the University's collaboration with community partners from the local to the global level. It reflects UNF's mission to contribute to the public good and prepare educated, engaged citizens.

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