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Museum Curator Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

NOVA Parks

Education Curator

Alexandria, VA

Carlyle House, an eighteenth-century historic house museum committed to telling an inclusive story ... The Education Curator is responsible for overseeing educational programs, a large roster of ...

Smithsonian Institution

Museum Technician

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$57K - $75K/yr

The National Museum of Natural History (NMNH) is a major bureau of the Smithsonian Institution that is responsible for the acquisition, curation, and preservation of collections of objects and ...

NOVA Parks

Education Curator

Alexandria, VA · On-site

Carlyle House, an eighteenth-century historic house museum committed to telling an inclusive story ... The Education Curator is responsible for overseeing educational programs, a large roster of ...

Smithsonian Institution

Museum Specialist

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$121K - $158K/yr

This position is organizationally located in Collections Management (OCM), Acquisitions and Special Collections, Curatorial Affairs (OCA), National Museum of African American History and Culture ...

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All JobsMuseum Curator JobsMuseum Curator Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Museum Curator information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$28.9K

$78.8K

$140.1K

How much do museum curator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for museum curator in Silver Spring, MD is $78,838.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,500.00 and $86,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a museum curator a hard job to get?

Becoming a museum curator can be competitive, as it often requires a relevant advanced degree such as a master's or doctorate in fields like history, art, or archaeology, along with experience in collections management or research. Job openings may be limited, and strong skills in organization, research, and communication are essential for success in the field.

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 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.

Do museum curators get paid a lot?

Museum curators' salaries vary depending on factors such as experience, education, location, and the size of the institution. On average, they earn a median annual wage that is comparable to other arts and cultural professionals, with some earning higher salaries in larger or more prestigious museums. Advanced degrees and specialized knowledge can lead to higher pay.

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 popular job titles related to Museum Curator jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Museum Curator jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Museum Curator jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Museum Curator jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Museum Curator jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Museum Curator job openings:
Museum Curator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Curator job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,838 per year, or $37.9 per hour.

Education Curator

NOVA Parks

Alexandria, VA

Part-time

Medical

Re-posted 20 days ago

NOVA Parks rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

711th of 844 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Carlyle House, an eighteenth-century historic house museum committed to telling an inclusive story, located in Old Town Alexandria, seeks a dynamic, proactive, creative, hands-on associate experienced in children’s programming, working with volunteers and collections. The Education Curator is responsible for overseeing educational programs, a large roster of volunteer tour guides and support site staff in managing the collections and event rentals. This is a year-round, part time position with health insurance benefits.  This position may work up to 32 hours per week.
Pay Rate: $ 20.00 per hour

Major Duties/Specific Tasks

  • Works with site staff to ensure that school programs are utilizing current Standards of Learning (SOL); maintains and creates updated scout programming.
  • Promotes, schedules, and teaches school and scout programs.
  • Promotes and schedules group tours.
  • Works with staff to plan and promote educational and interpretive programs, including school and scout programs, school outreach, public lectures, concerts, family and youth programs, and adult enrichment.
  • Oversees recruiting, training, evaluating, scheduling, and supervising volunteer docents.
  • Plans enrichment programs for volunteers.
  • Assists the Site Manager and Site Specialist with all aspects of museum operations, including event rentals and collections management.
  • Works independently and as part of a team, with regular evening and weekend hours required.
  • Handles other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Undergraduate degree in history, education, historic preservation, or museum studies preferred.
  • Program planning and/or delivery experience.
  • Superb interpersonal skills to work with diverse audiences, the general public, children, volunteers, and paid staff.
  • Strong speaking, writing, and organizational skills.
  • Versatility, self-starter and enthusiasm for the work.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
  • Experience in visitor and customer service, event rentals, and public programming preferred.
  • Attention to detail is important.
  • Ability to perform a variety of duties, including light custodial tasks.
  • Strength and dexterity necessary to perform all required tasks, including lifting, stooping, bending, and working in tiring positions.
  • Excellent communication skills, via phone, email, and in person.
  • Experience in small museum operations is a plus.
  • Must be available to work weekends, evenings, and holidays.

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