Associate Curator or Curator of American Art

Institution: Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Contract: Full-time, exempt
Salary: Associate Curator: $71,173 – $80,092/year / Curator: $85,490 – $96,129/year
Work Schedule: Monday–Friday, with occasional evenings, weekends, and travel
Location: Kansas City, MO, USA

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art seeks a scholarly and dynamic Associate Curator or Curator of American Art to research, preserve, and interpret one of the most important American art collections in the nation. The role oversees paintings, sculpture, and works on paper from the 18th to early 20th centuries, with responsibility for exhibitions, acquisitions, and engaging diverse audiences through scholarship and programming.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage, research, and interpret the historic American art collection.
• Develop original exhibitions and gallery installations.
• Cultivate relationships with collectors, galleries, and donors to support acquisitions.
• Conduct and publish scholarly research.
• Collaborate with internal teams on museum initiatives.
• Deliver lectures, tours, and presentations to various audiences.

Candidate Profile

• Associate Curator level: MA in Art History, American Studies, or related field (ABD/PhD preferred); at least 5 years of curatorial experience; track record in exhibitions, acquisitions, and publications.
• Curator level: MA in Art History, American Studies, or related field (ABD/PhD preferred); 7+ years of curatorial experience; proven success in exhibitions, acquisitions, and publications.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Commitment to diversity, inclusion, and audience engagement.