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Independent Curator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Under the supervision of the Curator of Exhibitions, this individual will work independently and as part of a team to undertake a variety of curatorial and administrative tasks including exhibition ...

Data Curator (Remote)

California, MO ยท On-site

$80 - $100/hr

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

Curatorial Assistant

Potomac, MD ยท On-site

$49K - $64K/hr

Perform independent object research and craft original writing related to exhibitions, including curatorial statements, fact sheets, wall labels, didactics, web text, and more. * Communicate directly ...

Curatorial Assistant

Columbus, OH ยท On-site

$21.55 - $27.50/hr

Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a fast-paced environment. Preferred * Master's degree in Art History, Curatorial Studies, Museum Studies, * Prior museum, gallery ...

Title Curative Specialist

Irving, TX ยท On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Conduct thorough, independent reviews of preliminary title reports, title commitments, abstracts ... Title Curative Actions and Resolution * Develop and execute a strategic plan to resolve all ...

Showing results 41-60

Independent Curator information

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$25.5K

$72.6K

$119.5K

How much do independent curator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 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.

More about Independent Curator jobs

What cities are hiring for Independent Curator jobs?

Cities with the most Independent Curator job openings:

What states have the most Independent Curator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Independent Curator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Independent Curator jobs?

For Independent Curator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Independent Curator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $72,627 per year, or $34.9 per hour.

Curatorial Assistant/Fellow

Oxford, OH โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist the Curator of Exhibitions and museum team members in the preparation of an exhibition and related catalog publication.

  • Research collections, write didactic materials, and assist with object selection and image research for exhibitions.

  • Contribute to developing social media content, assist with exhibition installation planning, and support administrative tasks related to exhibitions.


Job description

Job Title

Curatorial Assistant/Fellow

Department

Art Museum

Worker Type

Temporary (Fixed Term)

Pay Type

Period Activity Pay

Benefit Eligible

Yes

Job Description Summary

The Richard and Carole Cocks Art Museum (RCCAM) at Miami University seeks a Curatorial Assistant /Fellow to assist the Curator of Exhibitions and museum team members in the preparation of an exhibition and related highlights catalog publication, incorporating the history of the Art Museum and its collections. They will also contribute to the development of related social media, video, blogs, and website content.
This a two year position (24 months) intended for an early career curator, arts researcher, or art historian who is a recent post-graduate in art history, curatorial practices or a related field.

Job Description

Curatorial Assistant /Fellow to assist the Curator of Exhibitions and museum team members in the preparation of an exhibition and related highlights catalog publication, incorporating the history of the Art Museum and its collections. They will also contribute to the development of related social media, video, blogs, and website content.Responsibilities include researching and writing didactic materials for a future exhibition, assisting with the selection of objects and support images, and generating the narrative for the highlights catalog.

Core responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

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

  • Writing didactic materials for exhibition purposes.

  • Assist with the selection of objects for display and relevant support images, and image research and coordination of new photography.

  • Writing and editing text panel, object label, and catalog content.

  • Entering information into The Museum System (TMS) database (Collections Management System) and creating online catalogs of collections

  • Opportunities to engage in educational program planning and facilitation.

  • Help develop social media outputs with digital media team.

  • Assist with design of the installation plan and exhibition flow.


Under the supervision of the Curator of Exhibitions, this individual will work independently and as part of a team to undertake a variety of curatorial and administrative tasks including exhibition research, planning, programs and events; managing contacts and correspondence; assisting with the coordination of a catalog, didactic materials, and exhibition documentation; writing and editing exhibition-related copy; and assisting with registration activities using the museum's database. In addition, the Curatorial Assistant may have the opportunity to contribute to generation of original programs and exhibitions. Additionally, the Curator of Exhibitions/Fellow will assist in preparation of classes and research visits involving access and study of physical and digital collections; Work assignments may require advanced knowledge, skills, or abilities; Implement museum policies and procedures in accordance with University guidelines and professional best practices; Some independent judgment or initiative; May require physical exertion, adverse hours or working conditions; Areas of work include Art Museum & Sculpture Park, spaces within Miami University pertaining to artworks and collections, and spaces outside Miami University related to lending and collaborative activities with other museums; May assist in facilitation of lending of collections to other institutions; May contribute to outreach initiatives by providing content for newsletters, social media, and related communications; May be responsible for supervising student interns or employees.

Minimum Requirements: Master's degree in Art History or Anthropology, Museum Studies, Library Science, Arts Management, or a related field; 1 year experience in exhibition development at a museum, arts, education, or non-profit institution.

Consideration may be given to candidates with: Master's degree in Museum Studies, Library Science, Arts Management, or a related field such as Art History or Anthropology; 2 or more years experience in exhibitions at a museum, arts, education, or non-profit institution; Successful grant writing experience; Experience in archives and digitization best practices.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: Excellent writing skills and ability to research independently; General knowledge and awareness of history of art, familiarity with art materials and processes, as well as exhibition planning processes; Knowledge and use of Collections Management Systems, such as TMS or similar; Knowledge of standard office procedures and equipment; Knowledge of computers and office applications, including Google and Adobe applications; Some knowledge of administrative procedures which may include budgeting, research, preparing reports and evaluations; Work well with others and as part of a team, ranging from student assistants, staff, faculty and volunteer docents; Ability to manage simultaneous priorities and to work effectively with other team members; Familiarity with American Alliance of Museums core standards and document requirements; Ability to communicate effectively in written form; Skill in communicating effectively orally / in person as appropriate for the needs of the audience; Knowledge of federal and state policies and procedures relating to collections and exhibition ethics, and legal regulations relating to museum collections. Experience and knowledge of varied materials and preservation needs for collections in a museum environment.

For questions concerning the position, please contact Jason Shaiman, Curator of Exhibitions: shaimaje@miamioh.edu.

Additional Position Information (if applicable)

Required Application Documents

Resume/CV and Cover Letter

Special Instructions (if applicable)

Jason Shaiman, shaimaje@miamioh.edu

Additional Information

A criminal background check is required. All campuses are smoke- and tobacco-free campuses.

This organization participates in E-Verify.

Remote Work
For positions that are approved for remote work: Remote work is not a right, it is a work arrangement that can be modified or revoked by Miami University at any time for any reason, including the convenience of the University.


Reasonable Accommodations
Requests for reasonable accommodations for disabilities related to employment should be directed to ADAFacultyStaff@miamioh.edu or 513-529-3560. Questions and follow-ups regarding requests should also be directed here.

Miami University Values Statement
Miami University is a scholarly community whose members believe that a liberal education is grounded in qualities of character as well as of intellect. We respect the dignity of other persons, the rights and property of others, and the right of others to hold and express disparate beliefs. We believe in honesty, integrity, and the importance of moral conduct. We defend the freedom of inquiry that is the heart of learning and combine that freedom with the exercise of judgment and the acceptance of personal responsibility.

For more information on Miami University's mission and core values, please visit the Mission and Core Values webpage.


Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Statement
Miami University, an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, encourages applications from protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Miami University prohibits harassment, discrimination and retaliation on the basis of age (40 years or older), color, disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, military status, national origin (ancestry), pregnancy, race, religion, sex/gender, status as a parent or foster parent, sexual orientation, or protected veteran status in its application and admission processes, educational programs and activities, facilities, programs or employment practices. Requests for reasonable accommodations for disabilities related to employment should be directed to ADAFacultyStaff@miamioh.edu or 513-529-3560.

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