ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Museum Curator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Woodruff Arts Center

Comprised of three Art Partners-Alliance Theatre, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and High Museum of Art ... This is an entry-level role with meaningful growth potential. The right person will learn how Brand ...

All JobsEntry Level Museum Curator Jobs

Entry Level Museum Curator information

See salary details

$28K

$76.3K

$135.5K

How much do entry level museum curator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level museum curator in the United States is $76,262.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,500.00 and $84,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Museum Curator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Museum Curator, you need a background in art history, museum studies, or a related field, along with knowledge of collection management and exhibit design. Familiarity with museum database systems, cataloging software, and digital archiving tools is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set standout candidates apart in this role. These skills and qualities ensure proper care of collections, engaging exhibitions, and productive collaboration within museum teams.

What experience do you need to be a museum curator?

Entry level museum curators typically need a bachelor's degree in history, art, archaeology, or a related field, along with some experience in collections management, research, or exhibit development. Internships or volunteer work in museums can also provide valuable hands-on experience. Advanced roles may require a master's degree or specialized training, along with strong organizational and communication skills.

How do I get into a museum curator?

To become an entry-level museum curator, typically a bachelor's degree in art history, archaeology, anthropology, or a related field is required, often supplemented by internships or volunteer work in museums. Gaining experience with collections management, research, and exhibit development, along with strong organizational and communication skills, can improve job prospects; a master's degree is often preferred for advancement.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level museum curators, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level museum curators often face the challenge of balancing multiple responsibilities, such as assisting with collections management, supporting exhibit planning, and conducting research, all while learning institutional protocols. They may also need to quickly adapt to working with diverse teams, including conservators, educators, and administrative staff. To overcome these challenges, new curators should seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, proactively communicate across departments, and continuously expand their knowledge through professional development and hands-on experience.

What does an entry level museum curator do?

An entry level museum curator assists with the acquisition, documentation, and care of museum collections. They may help organize exhibitions, conduct research on artifacts, and support educational programs. Their responsibilities often include cataloging items, preparing displays, and collaborating with other museum staff. Entry level curators also engage with the public and help ensure artifacts are preserved and presented accurately.

What are the easiest museum jobs to get?

Entry level museum jobs such as museum assistants or docents are generally the easiest to obtain, often requiring minimal experience and sometimes offering volunteer or part-time opportunities. These roles typically involve supporting staff, guiding visitors, or assisting with daily operations, and may require basic knowledge of the museum's collections or customer service skills.

What is the difference between Entry Level Museum Curator vs Museum Collections Assistant?

AspectEntry Level Museum CuratorMuseum Collections Assistant
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Museum Studies, History, or related fieldAssociate's or Bachelor's degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentCurating exhibits, developing collections, researchAssisting with collection management, cataloging
Employer & Industry UsageMuseums, cultural institutions, galleriesMuseums, archives, historical societies
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Museum Curator vs Museum Collections Assistant

The Entry Level Museum Curator typically takes on responsibilities like developing exhibits and conducting research, requiring a relevant bachelor's degree. In contrast, a Museum Collections Assistant focuses on supporting collection management tasks such as cataloging and organizing artifacts. Both roles are common in museums and cultural institutions, but the curator role involves more decision-making and exhibit development, while the assistant role emphasizes operational support.

How to become a curator with no experience?

Entry-level museum curators can start by gaining relevant education such as a bachelor's degree in history, art, or a related field. Volunteering, internships, or assisting with collections can provide practical experience, and developing skills in research, organization, and museum software can improve job prospects.
More about Entry Level Museum Curator jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Museum Curator jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Museum Curator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Museum Curator jobs? The most popular types of Museum Curator jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Museum Curator jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Museum Curator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Museum Curator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Museum Curator jobs are:
Entry Level Museum Curator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Museum Curator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 95% Full Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,262 per year, or $36.7 per hour.
Automotive Preservation Technician

Automotive Preservation Technician

The Barber Companies Inc

Leeds, AL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Automotive Preservation Technician

Organization: Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

Location: Birmingham, Alabama

Reports to: Conservation Manager

Position Type: Full-time

About Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum:

Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is a renowned 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the history of motorsports and celebrating the art and science of motorcycle and automobile design. Our mission is to inspire and educate the public about the significance of the motorsports industry through an extensive collection of vintage motorcycles, automobiles, and related artifacts. We are committed to preserving and showcasing the heritage of motorsports for future generations.

Job Overview:

The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is seeking a Automotive Preservation Technician to support the conservation, preservation and restoration efforts of the valuable and historically significant collections housed within the museum. The Preservation Technician will play a vital role in the conservation and preservation of automobiles across all decades, ensuring their long-term preservation and public accessibility.

Responsibilities:

  • Conservation, Preservation and Restoration: Assist the Manager in the conservation, preservation and restoration of the museum's collection of cars and related artifacts. This includes cleaning, repairing, and preserving items using appropriate techniques and materials outlined in our manual.
  • Documentation: Maintain detailed records of all conservation, preservation and restoration activities, including condition assessments, preservation plans, parts conditions, photo documentation of preservation process and any changes made to objects in the collection.
  • Handling and Transport: Safely handle and transport delicate and valuable artifacts within the museum, ensuring their protection and security at all times.
  • Research: Conduct research on objects in the collection to inform conservation decisions and contribute to the overall understanding of the historical and cultural context of the items.
  • Work Space: Always maintain a clean and organized work area. While the department is not always open to the public, tours in front of the work area may take place at any time and should be kept presentable.
  • Materials and Equipment: Assist in managing the inventory of conservation materials, tools, and equipment, ensuring they are well-maintained and available when needed.
  • Exhibition Support: Collaborate with the curatorial team to prepare objects for display, ensuring their conservation needs are met and that they are displayed in a manner that enhances their historical and artistic significance.
  • Visitor Engagement: Interact with museum visitors and provide information about the conservation process when appropriate, helping to educate the public about the importance of preservation.
  • Safety: Adhere to safety protocols, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), when working with potentially hazardous materials and tools.

Qualifications:

  • Prior experience working on automobiles is required
  • Prior experience in object conservation and restoration, preferably with a focus on automobiles or mechanical objects.
  • Strong understanding of conservation principles, practices, and ethics.
  • Knowledge of the materials and techniques used in the creation and restoration of motorcycles and automobiles.
  • Excellent attention to detail and manual dexterity.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a museum setting.
  • Ability to work on team as well as independently, prioritize tasks, and manage time effectively.
  • Commitment to the mission of the museum and a passion for preserving motorsports history.

Physical Requirements:

  • The Technician should be capable of hands-on mechanical work.
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs safely, climb ladders, and stand for long periods of time.
  • Ability to handle motorcycles and vehicles and maneuver them without damage.

Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes candidates of all backgrounds to apply. We thank all applicants for their interest, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.


Apply