Curatorial Assistant, Curatorial Affairs Division

The Museum of Modern Art

Location: New York, NY 10019, USA
Position Type: Full Time, In-Person
Job Requisition ID: CURAT002130
Salary: $69,211 per annum
Application Deadline: Rolling basis, with final deadline on Sunday, March 23, 2025

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is seeking a Curatorial Assistant to support senior curatorial staff in all aspects of their work. This role plays a key part in research, planning, and executing exhibitions and gallery rotations, including work on an upcoming exhibition on Piet Mondrian, as well as various other projects.

Your Responsibilities

• Exhibition & Research Support:
  • Assist senior curators with research, planning, organization, and realization of upcoming exhibitions and gallery rotations.
  • Conduct research and catalog the museum collection and archives, answer inquiries, and support potential acquisitions through biographical and bibliographical research.
• Editorial & Production:
  • Write, edit, and help produce museum publications and exhibition materials, including wall texts and extended object labels.
  • Perform tasks related to bibliographic research, loan correspondence, and website content management.
• Collection Management:
  • Support the maintenance of collections, oversee loan procedures, and coordinate custodial, registration, conservation, and preparation work.
• Public Engagement & Tours:
  • Conduct daily inspections of gallery collections, address any issues of damage or deterioration, and lead gallery tours as needed.
• Collaboration & Communication:
  • Liaise with other departments and external contacts to ensure smooth operations, and assist with various administrative tasks as assigned.

What We’re Looking For

• Educational Background:
  • A Master’s degree in art history or a related field is preferred, with relevant work experience.
• Expertise:
  • A strong grounding in American cultural history and/or the European avant-garde.
  • Familiarity with music, particularly jazz, is preferred.
• Skills:
  • Excellent research, writing, and organizational skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment with exceptional attention to detail.
  • Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, G-Suite, and other standard office tools; familiarity with The Museum System (TMS) is a plus.
  • Reading knowledge of an additional language beyond English.
• Personal Attributes:
  • Flexibility, enthusiasm, and the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively.
  • Strong interpersonal communication skills and a commitment to learning and mentorship.
  • Professionalism and discretion in handling sensitive information.