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Museum Curator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Des Moines Art Center

Security Officer I

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

... Museum Shop, and Curatorial departments. Security Officers are in constant contact with museum visitors, docent volunteers, and students of all ages. Essential Functions * Protection of assets ...

New

Wyndy LLC

Assistance near available

Forest City, IA · On-site

Assistant Teacher available. Assist with educational activities, provide support to staff, and promote positive learning environment. Qualifications * A love of working with children * Excellent ...

New

Wyndy LLC

Assistance near available

Lamoni, IA · On-site

Assistant Teacher available. Assist with educational activities, provide support to staff, and promote positive learning environment. Qualifications * A love of working with children * Excellent ...

New

Wyndy LLC

Assistance near available

Waterloo, IA · On-site

Assistant Teacher available. Assist with educational activities, provide support to staff, and promote positive learning environment. Qualifications * A love of working with children * Excellent ...

Wyndy LLC

Assistance near available

Burlington, IA · On-site

A capable individual is needed to provide support and aid to individuals near 52601. This position involves assisting with various tasks and ensuring the well-being and comfort of the individuals.

Wyndy LLC

Assistance near available

Urbandale, IA · On-site

Assistant Teacher available. Assist with educational activities, provide support to staff, and promote positive learning environment. Qualifications * A love of working with children * Excellent ...

New

Wyndy LLC

Assistance near available

Cresco, IA · On-site

Assistant Teacher available. Assist with educational activities, provide support to staff, and promote positive learning environment. Qualifications * A love of working with children * Excellent ...

New

Wyndy LLC

Assistance near available

Sioux Center, IA · On-site

Assistant Teacher available. Assist with educational activities, provide support to staff, and promote positive learning environment. Qualifications * A love of working with children * Excellent ...

New

All JobsMuseum Curator JobsMuseum Curator Jobs in Iowa

Museum Curator information

See Iowa salary details

$26.3K

$71.6K

$127.3K

How much do museum curator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for museum curator in Iowa is $71,630.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,900.00 and $78,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a museum curator?

Museum curators are professionals responsible for acquiring, caring for, and displaying objects within a museum's collection. They conduct research, develop exhibitions, and ensure the preservation of artifacts. Curators often work closely with the public through educational programs and tours, and they may also handle administrative tasks such as fundraising or managing budgets. Their expertise helps make museum collections accessible and informative to visitors.

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

To thrive as a Museum Curator, you need expertise in art history or a relevant subject, research skills, and typically a master's degree in museum studies or a related field. Familiarity with collection management systems, digital archiving tools, and exhibit design software is essential. Strong communication, organizational skills, and a passion for education help curators engage audiences and collaborate with stakeholders. These skills are crucial for preserving collections, creating compelling exhibits, and fostering public appreciation of cultural heritage.

What do museum curators do?

Some museum curator positions require a bachelor’s degree in art, archeology, history, museum studies, or a related field, but many museums now require candidates to hold a master’s degree. You may need a doctorate to move into supervisory roles. Volunteer at a local museum to gain hands-on experience in the field. Learn how to bid or apply for different artifacts and the proper way to handle them. You can find museum curator positions at museums, historic sites, nature centers, and zoos.

What are some common challenges museum curators face when developing new exhibitions?

Museum Curators often encounter challenges such as balancing artistic vision with budget constraints, ensuring the proper care and conservation of artifacts, and coordinating with multiple departments like education and marketing. They also need to consider visitor engagement, accessibility, and sometimes negotiate loans or partnerships with other institutions. Successfully managing these aspects requires strong project management skills and a collaborative approach with colleagues across the museum.

What is the difference between Museum Curator vs Museum Educator?

AspectMuseum CuratorMuseum Educator
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Museum Studies, History, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Education, Museum Studies, or related field
Work EnvironmentGallery or exhibit management, collection care, researchEducational programs, tours, community outreach
Employer & Industry UsageMuseums, historical societies, cultural institutionsMuseums, science centers, cultural organizations
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for roles involving collections and exhibitsFocuses on education and visitor engagement

While both Museum Curators and Museum Educators work within museums and cultural institutions, curators primarily manage collections, develop exhibits, and conduct research. In contrast, museum educators focus on creating educational programs, guiding visitors, and promoting learning experiences. Both roles require relevant degrees and are essential for enriching visitor engagement and preserving cultural heritage.

How hard is it to get a job as a Museum Curator?

Securing a position as a Museum Curator can be competitive, often requiring a master's degree in museum studies, history, or a related field, along with relevant experience such as internships or previous curatorial work. Strong research, organizational skills, and knowledge of collections management are also important for success in this role.

How much money can you make as a museum curator?

Museum curators typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, with higher earnings possible for those with advanced degrees, extensive experience, or working in large or prestigious institutions. Salaries can vary based on location, specialization, and the size of the museum.
More about Museum Curator jobs

What are popular job titles related to Museum Curator jobs in Iowa?

For Museum Curator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What are popular job titles related to Museum Curator jobs in IA?

For Museum Curator jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Museum Curator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Curator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 72% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,630 per year, or $34.4 per hour.

Programming Associate - MacNider Art Museum

City of Mason City

Mason City, IA • On-site

$17 - $18.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Description Are you passionate about art and education. The Charles H. MacNider Art Museum is seeking a creative and enthusiastic part-time Programming Associate to join our team.

In this hands-on role, you'll develop and teach captivating art classes, and conduct interactive tours to create a love for arts in our visitors and community. Work Schedule: This position will work 28 hours per week and will include teaching classes on Tuesday or Thursday evenings and every other Saturday. The remaining hours will be spent working in the studio during varied daytime hours.

Key Responsibilities: Instruct classes at the Museum - adult Classes, children's art classes, artful birthday parties, camps, and programs. Conduct informative and engaging tours of the museum for patrons. Oversee the Kids Club and its activities.

Acts as studio manager alongside the Programming team. This includes assessing and fulfilling material and equipment needs for each class or event, ordering supplies, and coordinating with staff to ensure smooth operations. Assist the Museum Curator in the setup and organization of the School Art Show .

Respond to public inquiries about special events via phone, email, or in-person. Develop and contribute to brochures, flyers, news releases, and other promotional materials to advertise classes and educational programs. Drive community engagement and work to increase programming participation and revenue.

Minimum Requirements: High school diploma or GED. Experience in one or more fields of art mediums, such as painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics or print making. One year of experience working as an instructor, preferably in art.

Formal instruction in various mediums of art is desired. Associates degree or 60 hours of college level coursework from a recognized accredited institution in a related area is a plus. Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, graphics, and desktop publishing.

Applications will be accepted until 4:30pm, September 11, 2026 Equal Opportunity Employer

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