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Museum Curator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Elixir Technologies

Curator

New Orleans, LA · On-site

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 ...

Colby College

Chief Curator

Waterville, ME · On-site

Museum-search.com/open-searches. The Colby College Museum of Art, located in Waterville, Maine, seeks an experienced, visionary, and highly collaborative Chief Curator to join the Museum's senior ...

Colby

Chief Curator

Waterville, ME · On-site

Museum-search.com/open-searches. The Colby College Museum of Art, located in Waterville, Maine, seeks an experienced, visionary, and highly collaborative Chief Curator to join the Museum's senior ...

State of Louisiana

Curator 3

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$3.5K - $7.0K/mo

The Louisiana State Museum's collections and educational programs stimulate awareness and ... In the absence of any curator, provides assistance to inquiries. Works with supervisor, assistant ...

Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

Head Curator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

The ideal candidate is an innovative museum professional who combines curatorial expertise with strong project management and leadership skills, and who understands the importance of collaborative ...

State of Louisiana

Curator 3

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$3.5K - $7.0K/mo

The Louisiana State Museum's collections and educational programs stimulate awareness and ... In the absence of any curator, provides assistance to inquiries. * Works with supervisor, assistant ...

Woodruff Arts Center

$100K/yr

The High Museum of Art seeks an innovative and experienced curator with expertise in contemporary fashion to lead the program for its new endeavor, the Lauren Amos Fashion Project.With the North ...

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Museum Curator information

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$28K

$76.3K

$135.5K

How much do museum curator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for museum curator in the United States is $76,262.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,500.00 and $84,000.00 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.

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Museum Curator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Curator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% Locum Tenens, 6% As Needed, 22% Full Time, and 63% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,262 per year, or $36.7 per hour.
Assistant Curator - University Art Museum

Assistant Curator - University Art Museum

University of Wyoming

Laramie, WY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

University Of Wyoming rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

415th of 544 rated colleges and universities

Job description


Join Our Campus Community!
Thank you for your interest in joining the University of Wyoming. Our community thrives on the contributions of talented and driven individuals who share in our mission, vision, and values. If your expertise and experience align with the goals of our institution, we would be thrilled to hear from you. We encourage you to apply and become a valued member of our vibrant campus community today!
Why Choose Us?
At the University of Wyoming, we value our employees and invest in their success. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support your health, financial security, and work-life balance. Benefits include:
  • Generous Retirement Contributions: The State contributes 15.19% of your gross salary, and you contribute 3.93%, totaling 19.12% toward your retirement plan.
  • Exceptional Health & Prescription Coverage: Enjoy access to medical, dental, and vision insurance with competitive employer contributions, that include 4 deductible options to suit your needs.
  • Paid Time Off: Benefit from ample vacation, sick leave, paid holidays, and paid winter closure.
  • Tuition Waiver: Employees and eligible dependents can take advantage of tuition waivers, supporting continuous education and professional growth.
  • Wellness and Employee Assistance Programs: Stay healthy with wellness initiatives, counseling services, and mental health resources.

At the University of Wyoming, we are committed to creating a supportive and enriching workplace. To learn more about what we offer, please refer to UW's Benefits Summary.
JOB TITLE:
Curator of Academic Engagement
JOB PURPOSE:
Under the supervision of the Director and Chief Curator facilitates the use of the UW Art Museum's collections for academic and teaching purposes. The Curator initiates, plans, and leads university class visits in the galleries, print study room, studio, and collections storage as appropriate. The Curator coordinates academic projects, such as faculty and student research collaborations and symposia, and plans, researches, and installs two exhibitions annually in the Pat Guthrie Special Exhibitions Teaching Gallery. The Curator may supervise interns or teaching artists, perform other associated research, lead art making classes, and/or administrative tasks.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Teaching
  • Research upcoming courses and contact faculty about bringing relevant classes to the museum. Meet with them to discuss visit goals. Create lesson plans.
  • Research and prepare for classes as necessary and design written/digital supplemental materials and activities, which may include artmaking.
  • Use inquiry model and object-based teaching and learning as a foundation to facilitate university class visits to the museum.
  • After being thoroughly trained in art handling, assist the Collections Manager with pulling/putting away objects from storage for class visits. Collaborate with the Collection Manager to schedule classes that plan to use artwork that is not on view.
  • Create and lead workshops for university faculty and graduate students on inquiry-based, object-based research and teaching techniques.
  • With guidance from the Collections Manager, supervise individuals visiting storage or the print study room for research and assignments, such as faculty, visiting scholars, and graduate and undergraduate students.
  • Teach courses according to specialty and advise students in Museum Studies minor as needed.

Curation
  • Curate a spring and fall semester Teaching Gallery exhibition in partnership with up to 4 faculty.
  • Work closely with faculty and students using the Teaching Gallery for classes or projects.
  • Coordinate other faculty and class art installations as needed.
  • Participate in curation of exhibitions related to the museum's permanent collection and exhibition evaluation.

Research and Creative Activities
  • Become well-informed and seek out information on initiatives across the university and interdisciplinary collaborations within academic departments and institutes including, but not limited to, the Science Initiative, Engineering, Health Sciences, Energy Resources, and Honors.
  • Initiate conversations and pursue collaborations that foster the use of the museum as a laboratory for learning.

Service
  • Manage the use and schedule of the Art Museum's Resource Room and Print Study Room.
  • Participate in designing and organizing programs related to exhibitions that will appeal to and engage the University community and program assessment.
  • Serve as the primary UWAM Faculty Senate representative.

Professional Development
  • Attend and present innovative programs and museum resources at campus workshops and at relevant conferences.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • MA in art history or related humanities field
  • 1 year experience in a museum or university setting
  • 1 year experience working with and interpreting art or historical objects
  • Valid driver's license with a motor vehicle record (MVR) compliant with the Driving for University Business SAP.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • PhD in Art History or related humanities field, ABD accepted
  • 2-3 years in museums, academic, or instructional settings including working with faculty, graduate, and undergraduate students
  • 1 year teaching at the college level including acting as a teaching assistant, museum teacher or interpreter, or instructor of record
  • 1 year of museum or gallery experience working with and interpreting art or historical objects
  • Strong visual literacy and critical thinking skills.
  • Excellent communication and leadership skills.
  • Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
  • Highly developed organizational capabilities and ability to work autonomously and collectively in a fast-paced environment.
  • Excellent writing and research skills.
  • Demonstrated deep commitment to interdisciplinary teaching and collaboration with a cross-disciplinary approach to original works of art.

REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS:
Complete the online application. The department additionally requests candidates upload the following document(s) for a complete application:
  1. Cover letter
  2. Resume or C.V.
  3. Contact information for four work-related references (references will only be contacted if you are selected as a finalist for the position).

This position will remain open until filled. Complete applications received by 8/3/2026 will receive full consideration.
WORK LOCATION:
On-campus: This position provides vital support to campus customers, and the successful candidate must be available to work and perform essential job functions on campus, understanding our location is at 7,220 feet above sea level.
WORK AUTHORIZATION REQUIREMENTS:
The successful candidate must be eligible to work in the United States, as sponsorship for any work authorization or work visas is not available for this position.
HIRING STATEMENT/EEO:
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation to apply for a position, please contact us at 307-766-2377 or email jobapps@uwyo.edu.
ABOUT LARAMIE:
The University of Wyoming is located in Laramie, a charming town of 30,000 residents nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountain West. The state of Wyoming continues to invest in its only 4-year university, helping to make it a leader in academics, research, and outreach with state-of-the-art facilities and strong community ties. We invite you to learn more about Laramie by visiting the About Laramie website.
Located in a high mountain valley near the Colorado border, Laramie offers both outstanding recreational opportunities and close proximity to Colorado's Front Range and the metropolitan Denver area. Laramie's beautiful mountain landscape offers outdoor enjoyment in all seasons, with over 300 days of sunshine annually. For more information about the region, please visit http://visitlaramie.org/

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About University of Wyoming

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The University of Wyoming (UW) is a renowned institution known for its commitment to academic excellence, vibrant community, and stunning natural surroundings. As the only four-year university in Wyoming, UW offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields of study. With a history dating back to 1886, the university has established a strong reputation for its rigorous academics, distinguished faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities. Located in Laramie, Wyoming, UW's campus provides a picturesque backdrop for students' educational journey. Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Rocky Mountains and vast plains, students at UW enjoy access to a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities. Beyond the scenic landscape, the university fosters a strong sense of community, where students, faculty, and staff form lasting connections. With a relatively small student-to-faculty ratio, UW offers a supportive and engaging environment for students to thrive academically and personally.

Industry

Education

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Laramie, WY, US

Year founded

1886

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