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Museum Curator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

WSP

SUE Tech I

Raleigh, NC

$37K - $47K/yr

This Opportunity WSP is currently initiating a search for a SUE Technician I with the option to work out of one of our North Carolina offices to support our Southeast Region Geospatial / Surveying ...

NV5

Project Archaeologist

Cary, NC · On-site +1

Conduct artifact analysis and curation efforts. * Complete other archaeology-related tasks as needed; other tasks could include preparation of proposed avoidance and/or minimization measures for the ...

All JobsMuseum Curator JobsMuseum Curator Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Museum Curator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$27.2K

$74.1K

$131.7K

How much do museum curator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for museum curator in Raleigh, NC is $74,128.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,800.00 and $81,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are museum curators?

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.

How do you become a museum curator?

To become a museum curator, typically a bachelor's degree in art history, archaeology, history, or a related field is required, often followed by a master's or doctoral degree for advanced positions. Relevant experience through internships, volunteering, or working in museums is also important, along with skills in research, organization, and collections management.

What exactly does a museum curator do?

A museum curator is responsible for acquiring, caring for, and managing collections of artwork, artifacts, or specimens. They conduct research, develop exhibitions, and ensure proper preservation, often using specialized tools and documentation systems. Curators typically work in museums or galleries and may require relevant education and experience in their field.

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.

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.

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 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 the requirements for a museum curator?

Museum curators typically need a bachelor's degree in art history, archaeology, history, or a related field, with many positions preferring a master's degree or higher. Relevant experience in museum work, collections management, or research is often required, along with strong organizational, communication, and research skills. Familiarity with collection databases and conservation practices can also be beneficial.

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.

More about Museum Curator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Museum Curator jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Museum Curator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Museum Curator jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Museum Curator jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Museum Curator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Museum Curator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Museum Curator jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Museum Curator job openings:
Museum Curator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Curator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $74,128 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Museum Educator- City of Raleigh Museum

City of Raleigh North Carolina

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$15.75/hr

Part-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Job Description The City of Raleigh Museum is hiring a museum educator. The position includes handling daily operations and programming tasks associated with the City of Raleigh Museum, along with working on a variety of projects from educational programming, tours, research, event management, and more. While the position's primary work site will be at the City of Raleigh Museum, there is opportunity to work at additional sites in the Museum Section: Dr.

M.T. Pope House Museum and John P. "Top" Greene African American Cultural Center

Duties and Responsibilities Primary duties include opening and closing the facility, field trip programming for school groups, public program and event management, retail operation and cash handling, marketing, assistance with exhibit development, and other duties as assigned. Weekend and occasional evening work is required. Approximately 20 hours per week.

Typical Qualifications High School Diploma required. Effective oral and written communication required. A BA in history, public history, or related museum experience preferred.

A working knowledge of historic time periods and historic research methods, as well as interest in k-5 educational programming. Applicants must have availability during the weekday, weekend and some evenings. Additional Information The City of Raleigh Museum preserves and educates audiences about the social, political, cultural, and economic history of Raleigh from the earliest times to present.

Through its motto of "Then, Now, Next," the Museum seeks to preserve the history and heritage of Raleigh while considering its present and envisioning its future. Housed in the historic 1874 Briggs Hardware Building, the museum curates temporary and permanent exhibits about the city's people, places, and resources; maintains a collection of approximately 10,000 artifacts; and offers education programming and events.

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