Curatorial Assistant, Modern and Contemporary Art

Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH), USA

Position Type: Full-Time, Exempt/Salaried
Location: Audrey Jones Beck Building, 5601 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, USA
Reports to: Department Head, Modern & Contemporary Art

Role Overview

The Curatorial Assistant supports the Modern & Contemporary Curatorial Department at MFAH, contributing to exhibitions, collection management, scholarly research, and public engagement. This position involves collaboration across museum departments and external stakeholders to enhance the understanding and presentation of contemporary art.

Key Responsibilities

Exhibitions:

• Assist in research, planning, and implementation of exhibitions and related publications.
• Collaborate with the Learning and Interpretation team to develop interpretive content.
• Secure image rights and manage permissions for catalogs and didactic materials.

Collections Management:

• Ensure high standards for care and preservation of the collection.
• Coordinate acquisition reports and assist with collection documentation.
• Respond to inquiries about loans, accessions, and donations.
• Research and publish scholarly content about museum objects.

Public Engagement and Programs:

• Assist in the development of educational materials and outreach events.
• Represent the department at public and professional functions.
• Provide tours and informal presentations about exhibitions and collections.

General and Administrative Tasks:

• Supervise interns, fellows, and volunteers as needed.
• Support departmental fundraising efforts, including donor presentations.
• Collaborate with Marketing and Communications on public relations materials.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• Master’s degree in Art History (preferred).
• Minimum of 2 years of museum or curatorial experience.

Skills and Knowledge:

• Strong expertise in modern and contemporary art.
• Sophisticated research and writing skills.
• Proficiency with software including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and databases.
• Strong organizational, project coordination, and interpersonal skills.
• Fluency in a language other than English is preferred.

Physical and Schedule Requirements:

• Ability to stand, sit, and move between galleries and storage areas for extended periods.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends for museum events.

Benefits

• Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision plans effective the first of the month following employment.
• Time Off: Paid time off, reserve sick leave, and 10 paid holidays annually.
• Retirement: Eligible for up to a 5% employer match on contributions after one year of service.
• Discounts: Discounts on purchases at museum shops and eateries.
• Professional Perks: Free Family-level museum membership and access to other galleries.