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Design Curator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

VAWAA

Design Curator / Partnerships Associate

$50K - $65K/yr

Role overview The Design Curator & Partnerships Associate will work closely with our Founder and team and play a pivotal role in curating and growing our roster of extraordinary artists from around ...

Campbell County, WY

Museum Curator

Gillette, WY

$70K/yr

The Curator manages the development and implementation of an engaging and educational exhibition ... Leads the museum in the development, design, fabrication, and installation of on-site and traveling ...

Brooklynpubliclibrary

Assistant Curator

Center, TX · Hybrid

$70/hr

... design process. Consulting experts and key stakeholders Object selection, curation, and ... storytelling Participating in exhibition marketing and communication The assistant curator will ...

Woodruff Arts Center

$100K/yr

... design. The curator will be committed to working creatively and collaboratively with a diverse group of High staff, patrons, and their network of national and international peers. The position is ...

Veitusa

Auto Museum Curator & Caretaker

Rogers, MN · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

The Curator leads research, collection management, exhibit development, and public engagement ... Design, plan, and curate permanent and temporary exhibits highlighting automotive history ...

Veit

Auto Museum Curator & Caretaker

Rogers, MN · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

The Curator leads research, collection management, exhibit development, and public engagement ... Design, plan, and curate permanent and temporary exhibits highlighting automotive history ...

Nycarchivists

Curator/Archivist

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$76 - $85/hr

The curator/archivist works closely with faculty, students, researchers, and community partners to design and deliver instruction, workshops, and interpretive programs that foster critical engagement ...

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Design Curator information

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$25.5K

$72.6K

$119.5K

How much do design curator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for design curator in the United States is $72,627.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $94,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a design curator?

Design curators are professionals responsible for selecting, organizing, and presenting design-related works and exhibitions in museums, galleries, or other cultural institutions. They research and interpret design trends, historical movements, and contemporary works to create engaging displays that educate and inspire the public. Design curators often collaborate with artists, designers, and other curators, and may also write exhibition catalogues, manage collections, and develop public programs. Their role is crucial in shaping how design is understood and appreciated by diverse audiences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a design curator?

To thrive as a Design Curator, you need a background in art or design history, strong research abilities, and experience in exhibition planning, typically supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with museum collection management systems, digital archiving tools, and design software like Adobe Creative Suite is often required. Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the curation of compelling exhibitions, proper preservation of design works, and meaningful engagement with audiences and stakeholders.

How does a design curator typically collaborate with designers and other creative professionals in a project setting?

Design Curators often serve as a bridge between designers, artists, and stakeholders, facilitating communication and ensuring that the vision of an exhibition or project is cohesive. They work closely with creative teams to select works, develop narratives, and coordinate installations, often participating in brainstorming sessions and providing feedback. Regular meetings and collaborative planning are common, and Design Curators must balance creative input with logistical considerations to deliver compelling, well-organized presentations. This collaborative environment fosters learning and professional growth, as curators engage with diverse perspectives and expertise.

What is the difference between Design Curator vs Design Assistant?

AspectDesign CuratorDesign Assistant
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in design, art history, or related fields; experience in curation or art managementOften requires a diploma or associate degree; entry-level in design or art support roles
Work EnvironmentMuseums, galleries, or design exhibitions; focus on curation and collection managementDesign studios, agencies, or corporate settings; supporting design projects and tasks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in cultural institutions and art-focused organizationsCommon in creative agencies and corporate design teams

The main difference is that a Design Curator focuses on selecting, managing, and presenting design collections or exhibitions, often requiring specialized knowledge and experience. In contrast, a Design Assistant provides support to designers and teams, handling administrative or preparatory tasks. Both roles are essential in the design industry but serve different functions and environments.

Do design curators make a lot of money?

Design curators typically earn a median salary that varies depending on experience, location, and the organization they work for. In general, salaries range from around $40,000 to $80,000 annually, with higher earnings possible for those with specialized skills or senior roles. Compensation can also include benefits such as health insurance and professional development opportunities.

What does a design curator do?

A design curator selects, organizes, and presents design works for exhibitions, galleries, or collections. They research design history, collaborate with artists or designers, and often use tools like design archives or digital platforms to showcase innovative or significant designs.
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What states have the most Design Curator jobs?

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Design Curator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Curator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,627 per year, or $34.9 per hour.

Design Curator / Partnerships Associate

Remote

VAWAA
See more jobs at VAWAAexternal

$50K - $65K/yr

Contractor

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

About VAWAA
At VAWAA.com (Vacation With An Artist), we are on a mission to offer immersive, one-on-one creative experiences with master artists from around the world. In an increasingly digital world, VAWAA provides a unique opportunity to connect with global artists, learn traditional crafts, and experience local cultures first-hand. Our goal is to honor and celebrate craft while helping master artists pass down their knowledge to future generations, making a small but meaningful contribution to preserving these timeless traditions. We've curated over 150 artists across 35 countries, offering life-changing travel experiences that feed creativity and nourish the soul.
We are assembling a team of agile, culturally fluent, entrepreneurial-minded talent to craft the vision strategy and tactics to help scale the brand.
Role overview
The Design Curator & Partnerships Associate will work closely with our Founder and team and play a pivotal role in curating and growing our roster of extraordinary artists from around the world. You'll focus on artist acquisition through digital outreach, vetting potential artists, building relationships, and guiding them through the process of joining our platform. This role requires a blend of creativity, cultural fluency, and business acumen to ensure we are working with the best artists globally while forming valuable collaborations.
What we're looking for
  • Background in Art, Design, or Curatorial Practice: 2+ years of experience in art curation, design, or a related field with a strong appreciation for global arts, crafts, and creativity.
  • Partnerships & Business Development: Experience in forming strategic partnerships with collaborators, talent, or cultural organizations.
  • Resourceful Connector: Skilled at finding hard-to-reach artists and establishing contact through email, social, phone, WhatsApp, or Zoom. Persistent, creative, and adaptable in overcoming communication and language barriers.
  • Operational Excellence: Proficient in using tools like Airtable, Notion, and Streak to track artist outreach, follow-ups, and applications. You keep everything organized, maintain a well-structured artist database, and ensure smooth processes from lead to launch.
  • Cultural Fluency: Ability to connect with artists and partners from diverse cultural backgrounds, respecting and promoting cultural heritage.
  • Storytelling Ability: A knack for sharing artists' stories and the impact of creative experiences in a compelling way.
  • Entrepreneurial Mindset: Independent work ethic, hardworking, and impact-driven. No complainers here-we want someone ready to step up and make things happen.
  • Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a strong attention to detail.
  • Passion for Creativity: A deep passion for the arts, culture, and travel, with an appreciation for handmade, traditional crafts and immersive learning experiences.

What you'll do
  • Research, identify, and onboard established artists from diverse disciplines (e.g., visual arts, crafts, design, etc.).
  • Build relationships with artists, ensuring they align with VAWAA's ethos and vision of offering high-quality, immersive experiences.
  • Outreach to and manage a pipeline of artists using CRM tools, ensuring organized tracking and timely follow-ups to achieve monthly acquisition and onboarding goals.
  • Conduct interviews, collect artist assets, and manage the process of adding new artists to the platform.
  • Support the design and programming of each artist's experience, embodying the unique VAWAA approach to immersive learning and creativity.
  • Organize and maintain the artist database with detailed information and smart tags to enhance accessibility and insights.
  • Advocate for each artist's ongoing success within the VAWAA community through regular feedback loops, growth initiatives, and building trust and rapport.
  • Ensure artists meet our criteria in terms of skill, creativity, and ability to offer meaningful, hands-on learning experiences.
  • Stay updated on global art and design trends, identifying creative opportunities with like-minded brands, art institutions, cultural organizations, and travel companies to increase awareness of VAWAA.
What you can expect
  • Mission-Driven: We are leading the way in crafting the best creative experiences. Growth will be thoughtful but urgent.
  • Core Team Impact: You'll be part of the core team shaping VAWAA's future and direction.
  • Curiosity & Creativity: Our culture values curiosity, creative thinking, and constant learning-fostering an environment of excellence.
  • Ownership & Accountability: We lead with optimism, tenacity, and courage-taking ownership at every level.
  • Global Community: Be part of a creative, global community of artists, makers, and diverse thinkers.
  • Compensation: $50K-$65K based on experience, plus stock options. For experienced candidates, we can discuss additional equity compensation.

We are based in New York, but open to remote applications from within the US.
Tip: Cover Letters that include a link to a short 5 min video explaining why you are the best person for this role will be given preference.
As a Equal Opportunity Employer, VAWAA will consider all qualified applicants regardless of color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital or family status, disability, gender identity or expression, veteran status, actual or presumed belonging to an ethnic group, or any other legally protected status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.

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