Curatorial Assistant (Art) / Museum Specialist
Smithsonian American Art Museum, Washington, DC
The Smithsonian American Art Museum (SAAM) is seeking a Curatorial Assistant to provide logistical, administrative, and research support to the curatorial team, primarily focusing on the museum’s acquisitions program and permanent collection. This is a Trust Fund position, meaning it is funded through a variety of sources such as donations and grants. The position is temporary, with a maximum duration of five years. The role is full-time and based in Washington, DC with a hybrid work schedule.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist the Curatorial Collections Coordinator with the management of the museum’s acquisitions program.
- Conduct research related to collections, exhibitions, and publications, including basic research on biographic information, attribution, media, and dates.
- Coordinate conservation, matting, framing, and photography needs for new acquisitions, exhibitions, and gallery installations.
- Maintain and develop curatorial files for collection objects and assist in facilitating appointment requests from museum staff, scholars, and external researchers.
- Draft and format text, captions, and other exhibition materials.
- Organize and track curatorial projects, serve as a liaison between departments, and prepare reports and checklists.
Qualifications:
- Two full academic years of graduate education, or a master’s degree in a related field (Art History, Museum Studies, etc.).
- Knowledge of museum policies, collections management, and acquisition procedures.
- Strong research skills in American art history, with the ability to perform detailed documentation and analysis.
- Proficiency in information management, including database systems, and practical editing skills.
- Experience working in a museum or cultural heritage institution is preferred.
Compensation:
- Salary: $68,405 per year
- Benefits: Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, commuter benefits, retirement plan (403b), and discounts for Smithsonian memberships and museum stores.
Application Deadline:
October 21, 2024 (the application window may close earlier if 100 applications are received).
For more information and to apply, visit Smithsonian American Art Museum.
