Curatorial Assistant, Painting & Sculpture

Department: Painting & Sculpture
Position: Full-Time, Hybrid
Schedule: 35 hours per week, approximately three days onsite

Overview

The Curatorial Assistant role is integral to the Painting and Sculpture Department. This position supports the curators in managing, researching, developing, documenting, and presenting the SFMOMA collection and temporary exhibitions. The role also includes administrative responsibilities, ensuring effective communication within the museum and with external stakeholders, including artists, donors, and other art professionals.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research on collections and exhibitions, including compiling biographies, chronologies, exhibition histories, and documentation in the collections management system.
• Support the organization and implementation of Painting and Sculpture Accessions Committee meetings and other departmental events by managing guest lists, reserving venues, and coordinating logistics.
• Draft and review communications, including newsletters, event invitations, correspondence, loan forms, manuscripts, and exhibition wall labels, ensuring accuracy and compliance with museum standards.
• Maintain and update the exhibition checklists database and contribute data to the museum’s annual DEI Dashboard.
• Facilitate communication between departments such as EDCC, Exhibitions, Registration, and Conservation, as well as with external partners including artists, collectors, and scholars.
• Assist in preparing materials for lectures and presentations, including research and PowerPoint slides.
• Oversee departmental email management, maintain records, and archive files.
• Manage travel arrangements and budgets for curatorial staff and visiting guests.
• Occasionally act as a spokesperson for the department, provide tours, and greet guests.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Art History or related field, with a focus on modern and/or contemporary art.
• At least two years of relevant experience.
• Strong knowledge of modern and contemporary art history and terminology.
• Excellent writing, communication, and organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently, manage priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Zoom, and other standard office software.
• Familiarity with collections and digital asset management systems, a/v equipment, and editing software is preferred.
• Additional language skills are an asset.

Working Conditions

• Must be able to visually inspect work and accompany artists offsite for research when needed.

Compensation:
Starting at $29.79 per hour, up to $35.75 per hour depending on experience.