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Independent Curator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Elixir Technologies

Curator

New Orleans, LA · On-site

A demonstrated team player, the Curator must be able to work independently and collaboratively with a small staff and vigorous work schedule under the guidance of the Senior Curator and Director of ...

Rothe Development, Inc.

Data Curator (Remote)

$125K - $145K/yr

Data Curator Rothe is seeking a Data Curator to provide data acquisition, curation, metadata ... Ability to work independently with minimal guidance while consistently exercising good judgment.

Brooklynpubliclibrary

Assistant Curator

Center, TX · Hybrid

$70/hr

As part of the curatorial team for this exhibition, the Assistant Curator will draw from both ... independently and with a team Demonstrated research engagement with topics, events, and themes in ...

Campbell County, WY

Museum Curator

Gillette, WY · On-site

$33.87/hr

The Curator manages the development and implementation of an engaging and educational exhibition ... work both independently and as part of a team. Must be able to exert 50 pounds of force ...

VAWAA

Design Curator / Partnerships Associate

$50K - $65K/yr

Role overview The Design Curator & Partnerships Associate will work closely with our Founder and ... Independent work ethic, hardworking, and impact-driven. No complainers here-we want someone ready ...

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Independent Curator information

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$25.5K

$72.6K

$119.5K

How much do independent curator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent 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 an independent curator?

An independent curator is a professional who organizes art exhibitions, projects, and programs without being permanently affiliated with a specific museum or gallery. They often collaborate with various institutions, artists, and collectors to develop unique exhibitions or cultural events. Independent curators are responsible for conceptualizing themes, selecting artworks, and overseeing the logistics of presenting exhibitions. Their flexibility allows them to work across different venues and contexts, bringing fresh perspectives to the art world.

What are some common challenges faced by independent curators when organizing exhibitions?

Independent curators often face challenges such as securing funding for exhibitions, building relationships with galleries and institutions, and managing multiple projects simultaneously. Unlike staff curators, they may need to source artworks, negotiate contracts, and handle promotion themselves, requiring strong organizational and networking skills. Additionally, independent curators must stay updated on industry trends and maintain a robust professional network to secure future opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent curator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Independent Curator, you need a solid background in art history or a related field, experience organizing exhibitions, and strong research capabilities. Familiarity with collection management software, digital archiving tools, and knowledge of copyright and loan agreements are typically required. Exceptional communication, networking, and project management skills help you engage with artists, institutions, and audiences while overseeing complex projects. These skills ensure effective curation, collaboration, and the successful realization of exhibitions that resonate with diverse audiences.

What is the difference between Independent Curator vs Museum Curator?

AspectIndependent CuratorMuseum Curator
CredentialsTypically requires a relevant degree in art, history, or related fields; certifications are optionalUsually requires a degree in museum studies, art history, or related fields; often preferred to have additional certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks independently, often freelance or contract-based, with clients or galleriesEmployed by museums or cultural institutions, working within a team
Industry UsageCommon in art, contemporary exhibitions, and private collectionsPrimarily in public museums, galleries, and cultural institutions

While both roles involve curation, an Independent Curator operates independently, managing their own projects and clients, whereas a Museum Curator works within an institution, overseeing collections and exhibitions. The choice depends on whether you prefer independent work or working within a structured organization.

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Independent Curator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Curator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,627 per year, or $34.9 per hour.

Curator

Elixir Technologies

New Orleans, LA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
The National WWII Museum is currently seeking a Curator. Reporting to the Senior Curator and Director of Curatorial Affairs, the Curator is a vital member of the curatorial team and works closely with collections, archives, digitization, exhibits, and education staff members. The Curator participates in the research, proposal, and documentation of acquisitions; publication and presentation on the collection; and will serve as lead on exhibition projects, including the proposal of exhibition themes. This position requires extensive knowledge of WWII material culture, strong written and verbal communication skills, precise attention to detail, and the ability to communicate and work with both scholarly audiences and the general public. A demonstrated team player, the Curator must be able to work independently and collaboratively with a small staff and vigorous work schedule under the guidance of the Senior Curator and Director of Curatorial Affairs.
Requirements
Collections
  • Work with the entire curatorial team on donor relations and regularly participate in the Museum's Acquisition Review Committee
  • Evaluate, propose, and organize new collections to fill gaps within the Museum's collection
  • Inventory, catalog, and document artifacts and archival items in the Museum's collection management system (Ke EMu)
  • Research, compile, and prepare written information about collections for publication on the institution's website and other channels

Exhibits
  • Investigate and develop opportunities for temporary special exhibitions in support of the Museum's mission, preparing exhibition proposals 3-4 years in advance for review and approval by department heads and by the President & CEO
  • Actively participate in the development of permanent exhibits and other special projects as needed
  • Select and prepare items for rotation in permanent exhibits across the Museum's campus as assigned

Education/Programs
  • Work with members of Education to develop, produce, and analyze exhibition-related programming, educational materials, and didactics
  • Prepare and present lectures and other public programs
  • Conduct and/or organize tours, workshops, and instructional sessions to acquaint individuals with the Museum's collections
  • Present on collections and exhibitions to the general public through gallery walks, print and online articles, media opportunities and other venues

Research
  • Conduct original research on the Museum collections and present and/or publish research in academic and scholarly venues and at appropriate conferences
  • Identify and coordinate research opportunities for scholars and students

Fundraising
  • Provide support in the preparation of grants and other funding proposals to generate revenue in support of curatorial, collections, and exhibit initiatives
  • Provide information, ideas, suggestions, and assistance to the Institutional Advancement department in the formulation of sponsorship packages for programs, events, exhibits, and other activities

Marketing and Communications
  • Provide information and assistance to Marketing and Communications department to develop communication and marketing materials and strategies regarding collections, exhibitions, and programs

Qualifications
  • MA in History, Museum Science or related specialty
  • Minimum of four years' experience in a curatorial role at a history museum, cultural center, or similar institution
  • Extensive knowledge of the American Experience during World War II with emphasis on World War II-era material culture; specialization preferred
  • Thorough knowledge of cataloging procedures and standards with a demonstrated ability to work with computerized collections databases
  • Thorough understanding of best practices for collection stewardship
  • Exceptional research and verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong project management and organizational skills
  • Excellent interpersonal skills with a proven ability to work well with colleagues, other employees, donors, lenders, and guests
  • Willingness to work evenings or weekends during special events or heavy visitation periods
  • Willingness to participate in other duties of a manual nature such as moving and warehousing collections, installation of exhibits, and moving/driving macro-artifacts as required

In addition to offering competitive wages, the Museum's benefits package includes:
  • Medical insurance - 2 plan options; Museum pays 75% of premium
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • 401(k) - Museum matches 50% of employee contribution up to 6%; employer contribution full vested after 3 years of employment
  • Life insurance and AD&D - $15,000 policy employer paid; additional life and AD&D available
  • Long term disability insurance
  • Paid vacation and sick leave, 10 paid holidays per year
  • Free parking
  • Tuition assistance and professional development
  • Employee assistance program

The National WWII Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer and seeks diversity in its workforce. We are dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in employment on any basis including age, sex, race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, or disability. Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act, applicants may request accommodations needed to participate in the application process.

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