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Design Curator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Benrey

IDGC Museum Curator

Appling, GA · On-site

$20/hr

IDGC Museum Curator (Short-term contract position) Responsible to: IDGC Manager Background: The ... Design and plan the display and presentation of the museum contents * Ensure a high-quality visitor ...

Curated Events

Lead Curator

Nashville, TN

$24 - $26/hr

From stunning tents to design-forward details, our award-winning team is known for Service ... The Role As a Lead Curator, you're the quarterback of our on-site installation crew. You'll lead by ...

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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 Jul 16, 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 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Design Curator, and why are they important?

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.

What does a design curator do?

A design curator is responsible for selecting, organizing, and presenting design works or exhibitions, often in museums, galleries, or digital platforms. They research design history, collaborate with artists or designers, and use tools like design archives or cataloging software to create engaging displays or collections.

How much do curators get paid?

The average salary for a design curator varies depending on experience, location, and the organization, but typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 annually. Senior or specialized curators with advanced skills and certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in major cultural institutions or galleries.

What are Design Curators?

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.

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.

How to become a design curator?

To become a design curator, typically one needs a background in design, art history, or related fields, along with experience in curation, collection management, or exhibition planning. Developing skills in visual analysis, research, and project management is important, and proficiency with design tools or digital archives can be beneficial. Gaining relevant experience through internships or working in galleries, museums, or design institutions is also recommended.

Are curators in high demand?

Curators, including those in design-related fields, are experiencing steady demand in museums, galleries, and cultural institutions, especially for professionals with strong organizational skills and knowledge of art or design history. However, competition can be high, and job availability varies by region and institution size. Developing expertise in digital curation and gaining relevant certifications can improve employment prospects.
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Design Curator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Curator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% As Needed, 16% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 40% Nights, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,627 per year, or $34.9 per hour.
Assistant, Associate, or Curator of Art after 1950

Assistant, Associate, or Curator of Art after 1950

Farnsworth Art Museum

Rockland, ME • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Salary: $55,000 - $65,000

Assistant, Associate, or Curator of Art after 1950


The Farnsworth Art Museum, located in the scenic coastal community of Rockland, Maine, is recognized nationally as one of the finest repositories of American art. With over 15,000 works, our collection underscores Maine as the inspiration for many of the artists represented in our holdings. We currently have an opening for a full-time Assistant, Associate, or Curator of American Art. Reporting to the Chief Curator, this person will be a key member of the Farnsworth Art Museums (FAM) Curatorial team. They will work closely with colleagues to conduct research, organize exhibitions, develop interpretive materials, recommend acquisitions, and advance the museums mission. This individual will also share in the stewardship of two historic sites, the Farnsworth Homestead and the world famous Olson House.


POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Chief Curator, the Curator of Art after 1950 will be a key member of the Farnsworth Art Museums (FAM) Curatorial team, working closely with colleagues to conduct research, organize exhibitions, develop interpretive materials, recommend acquisitions, and advance the museums mission. Candidates may demonstrate expertise through a focus on modern or contemporary art, or through specialization in a particular medium as it relates to the strengths of the Farnsworths collection and mission. This is an on-site position in Rockland, Maine.


ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Conceives and develops exhibitions and gallery installations that will enhance the publics understanding of American art from the mid-twentieth century to today. As assigned, curates or co-curates the Momentum
  • Researches and interprets works in FAMs holdings of American art after 1950 and makes recommendations for acquisitions to further develop the collection in this area. Reinterpret works in the collection to include underrepresented narratives and diverse perspectives for broad audiences.
  • Collaborates with colleagues in the Wyeth Study Center and Brandywine Museum to develop new scholarship and dynamic exhibitions that contextualize and amplify the legacy of the artistic family.
  • Serves as an integral resource for internal and external constituencies on matters of scholarship related to modern and/or contemporary American art, including medium-specific areas of expertise.
  • Fosters relationships with collectors, galleries, and artists locally and nationally, actively soliciting their help in enhancing the collection, and communicates and maintains positive relationships with dealers.
  • Conducts regular studio visits with artists to remain actively engaged in the field.
  • Works across FAM departments to coordinate logistics for exhibitions and publications, including contracts, loan agreements, rights and reproduction, packing and shipping, design, and installation, developing and editing publications, publicity and fundraising, and other details.
  • Collaborates with internal and external curators, Learning and Engagement staff, and designers in the creation of program content, and with Advancement and Communications staff to expand audiences and support for the FAM collection and programs.
  • Works closely with the Chief Curator to recommend acquisitions to the Collection Committee on a quarterly basis, collaborating with Registrars on logistics, and participates in meetings.
  • Provides gallery talks, lectures, interviews for social media content, and other presentations for various audiences including the general public, FAM membership, FAM affinity groups, and the community on various topics.
  • Works with the Chief Curator and Chief of Advancement to build support for the growth of the Collection and the Museum, including assistance with grant writing, donor cultivation, etc.
  • Fosters relationships with members of the public, including scholars, critics, community groups, and other relevant audiences in encouraging interest in the FAM, its collection, and its mission.
  • Participates in regional and national professional communities and organizations in order to enhance the general and scholarly understanding of the FAM, its collection, and its mission.
  • Performs special projects and other related duties as required, directed, or as the situation dictates.


EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

M.A. or Ph.D. in Art History or a related field (Curatorial Practice, Visual Studies, Material Culture, etc.) required with at least 5 years of museum, gallery, or related professional experience.


QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Strong art historical knowledge and research skills demonstrated through scholarly accomplishments in American art history. Broad knowledge of postwar American art and modern and contemporary art.
  • Special interest in the artistic legacy of the Wyeths (N.C., Andrew, and Jamie) and artists with long-standing connections to Maine.
  • Exemplary writing skills, compelling public speaking presence, and excellent oral communication skills.
  • Ability to communicate effectively and to establish, maintain, and foster positive and harmonious working relationships with a variety of individuals contacted in the course of work.
  • Willingness and capacity to represent the FAM in a variety of contexts.
  • Demonstrated experience in exhibition development, publication development, and collection care.
  • Knowledge of and commitment to professional museum standards.
  • Excellent problem solving, planning, and organizational skills, with the ability to execute multiple projects and responsibilities simultaneously in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
  • Ability to adhere to FAM brand and style guide and ability to communicate effectively with constituents in writing, in-person, and over the phone.
  • Interest in and working knowledge of museum technologies, including in-gallery technological innovations and collection management software.
  • Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
  • Ability to operate computers and work with databases and assigned software, including Microsoft Office, Google Platforms, Asana, and Bloomberg Connects
  • Ability to pass a criminal background check.

Salary commensurate with experience. Range depends on curatorial level: $55,000 - $65,000.

Desired start date: September 2026