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Curatorial Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Woodruff Arts Center

$50K/yr

Exhibition Research & Implementation (60%) Assist curator/project lead with research, cataloguing, and installation of works Developing and maintaining object catalogue records and checklists Manage ...

Howard

Research Assistant

Seeley, CA

$24/hr

The Research Assistant will contribute to interdisciplinary projects within the Department of ... Duties and Responsibilities: * Assist with data collection, curation, preprocessing, and ...

Howard University

Research Assistant

Washington, DC · On-site

$24/hr

The Research Assistant will contribute to interdisciplinary projects within the Department of ... Duties and Responsibilities: * Assist with data collection, curation, preprocessing, and ...

J. Paul Getty Trust, The

Research Assistant

Los Angeles, CA

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

Job Summary The Getty Research Institute (GRI) is seeking a Research Assistant who will work with the chief curator and the curator of modern and contemporary collections to facilitate research in ...

NY History

Fellowship Research Assistant

New York, NY · On-site

$28/hr

Fellowship Research Assistant DEPARTMENT: Patricia D. Klingenstein Library REPORTS TO ... Revson Foundation Fellow and Curator of Manuscripts & Archival Collections ABOUT THE NEW YORK ...

Miamioh

Curatorial Assistant/Fellow

Oxford, OH

Research on physical and digital collections of relevant object collections and museum photographic and physical archives, including donor files, collections, exhibitions and staff histories

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Curatorial Research Assistant information

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How much do curatorial research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for curatorial research 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 the difference between Curatorial Research Assistant vs Collections Assistant?

AspectCuratorial Research AssistantCollections Assistant
Primary RoleConducts research to support exhibitions and curatorial projectsAssists with the organization, cataloging, and preservation of collections
Required SkillsResearch, analysis, writing, knowledge of art history or relevant fieldOrganization, attention to detail, knowledge of collection management systems
Work EnvironmentMuseums, galleries, cultural institutionsMuseums, archives, cultural institutions
Typical CredentialsBachelor’s degree in art history, museum studies, or related fieldBachelor’s degree, often in museum studies, history, or related field

While both roles support museum and gallery functions, the Curatorial Research Assistant focuses on research and content development for exhibitions, whereas the Collections Assistant handles the organization and preservation of collections. Both positions require relevant education and work in similar environments, but their core responsibilities differ.

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

To thrive as a Curatorial Research Assistant, you need strong research abilities, art historical knowledge, and often a relevant degree in art history or museum studies. Familiarity with collection management systems, digital archives, and databases is typically required. Attention to detail, organization, and effective communication help you stand out in collaborating with curators and supporting exhibition planning. These skills are crucial for ensuring accuracy in research, supporting curatorial projects, and maintaining the integrity of museum collections.

What are the main challenges Curatorial Research Assistants face when preparing materials for exhibitions?

Curatorial Research Assistants often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, managing large volumes of research data, and ensuring the accuracy and relevance of information presented. They must balance meticulous attention to detail with the ability to synthesize complex historical or artistic contexts into accessible exhibition materials. Collaborating closely with curators, registrars, and conservation staff, they must also adapt to shifting priorities and last-minute changes in exhibition planning. Excellent organizational skills and effective communication are essential to navigating these challenges successfully.

What are Curatorial Research Assistants?

Curatorial Research Assistants are professionals who support curators in museums, galleries, or cultural institutions by conducting research, organizing information, and assisting with exhibition planning. Their duties often include cataloging works of art, preparing written materials, and gathering historical or contextual information about objects in a collection. They play a key role in ensuring the accuracy and depth of exhibitions and publications. This position is ideal for individuals interested in art history, museum studies, or cultural heritage, and often requires strong research, organizational, and communication skills.
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Curatorial Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Curatorial Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Internship, and 50% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,709 per year, or $22 per hour.
Curatorial Research Associate

Curatorial Research Associate

Woodruff Arts Center

$50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 hours ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist curator or project lead with research, cataloguing, and installation of works for exhibitions and collections-based projects.

  • Prepare and proofread exhibition-related materials such as catalogues, essays, object entries, and gallery texts.

  • Coordinate project support activities including object reviews, outreach to communities, and arrangements for scholar and artist travel, meetings, and events.

Job description

Woodruff Arts Center employees play an integral role in creating and supporting great art and education initiatives at the nation's third largest arts center. Comprised of three Art Partners-Alliance Theatre, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and High Museum of Art-there's a role for everyone at The Woodruff.

Reports to:

Senior Curator, Modern & Contemporary Art

FLSA:

United States of America (Exempt)

Employment Status:

Regular/Full time

ABOUT THE HIGH
The High brings art, ideas, and people together to amplify the importance of artistic expression, envision a better future, and positively change Atlanta.
Our work is rooted in five guiding ambitions: Growth, Inclusivity, Collaboration, Connectivity, and Optimism. These values shape our programs, partnerships and the way we work together. Candidates who are energized by these aspirations will find a meaningful and supportive home at the High.

ABOUT THE ROLE
This position supports the activities of the Curatorial department in research, writing, interpretation, and working with colleagues, artists, visitors, dealers, and patrons toward the completion of designated exhibitions and collections-based projects. The position assists and works directly with designated curators for each termed project assigned, and liaises with relevant staff, notably but not limited to the Learning & Civic Engagement, and Collections and Exhibitions teams.

ANNUAL SALARY: $50,000

WORK SCHEDULE:
Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm
Occasional evenings or after-hours work may be required

WHAT YOU WILL DO:

Exhibition Research & Implementation (60%)
Assist curator/project lead with research, cataloguing, and installation of works
Developing and maintaining object catalogue records and checklists
Manage loan correspondence and exhibition documentation
Prepare exhibition precis, fact sheets, venue materials, gallery text, and didactics

Publications & Content Development (25%)
Support exhibition catalogues and HMA Link (digital) publications
Research, write, and proofread essays, object entries, and back matter
Assist with editorial preparation and publication quality control

Project Support & Administrative Coordination (15%)
Coordinate with curators, conservation staff, and Collections & Exhibitions teams to plan and facilitate object reviews for exhibition and collection projects
Assist in outreach to constituent communities, supporting the Learning and Civic Engagement, Communications, Development, on assigned projects.
Respond to (internal and external) requests related to assigned projects and, coordinate with appropriate staff.

Coordinate scholar and artist travel, meetings, lectures and symposia, receptions, etc.

WHAT WILL WE EXPECT OF YOU:

Exceptional research and organizational skills.
High attention to detail.
Ability to work independently, efficiently, and accurately with minimal supervision.
Manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize needs, while demonstrating strong problem-solving abilities
Work collaboratively with colleagues, and interact professionally with the public, dealers, and patrons.
Proficiency with MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook (email/scheduling) and similar programs. Training on The Museum System (TMS), financial tracking system (Workday), and Donor Tracking Database (TESS) will be provided.


Education and Experience
MA or other advanced degree in Art History, Anthropology, History, or relevant field strongly preferred.
Knowledge of art history required.
Prior museum or gallery experience highly desirable.

Language Skills
Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written.
Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from Museum staff, Museum members, and Museum patrons.


Mathematical Skills
Basic math and numerical reasoning skills for data accuracy, measurements, and record keeping.
Ability to use basic math skills for tracking, organizing, and verifying information.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
Some standing, walking, bending, frequent use of hands, stooping and light lifting (at least 10 pounds) is needed.
The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.


WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM US:

Health Insurance
Life and AD&D
Dental
Vision
Short Term Disability
Long Term Disability
Flexible Spending Account
Employee Assistance Plan
403b (with employer match!)
Financial Wellness Program
Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
Paid Time Off
Paid Holidays (including your birthday!)
Discounts and complimentary offers to visit the High Museum, Alliance Theatre and Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

Apply