Robert Rauschenberg Curatorial Fellow

Founded in 1968, the Studio Museum in Harlem is the nexus for artists of African descent locally, nationally, and internationally and for work that has been inspired and influenced by Black culture. It is a site for the dynamic exchange of ideas about art and society.

Job Summary

The Studio Museum in Harlem is accepting applications for The Robert Rauschenberg Curatorial Fellowship, ​a 12-month position designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to curatorial work for a young professional who has demonstrated a commitment to the museum field, and specifically to artists of African descent. The fellow will work under the direction of the Assistant Curator on a wide range of tasks in support of projects, ranging from research and writing toward various exhibitions programming to the coordination of logistics around our Artist-in-Residence program. This fellow will also work closely with the Assistant Curator to develop workflows and schedules that serve the diverse programming generated by our curatorial team.

The position will provide the successful applicant with the opportunity to join a cohort of fellows, interface with colleagues in various internal museum departments, and connect with external partners engaged in many facets of museum work. The fellowship includes a benefits package and provides $2,500 to cover travel expenses for an approved research trip related to the fellow’s field of interest.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist the Assistant Curator with ​producing didactic texts and exhibition-related publications for the Artist-in-Residence culminating exhibition, ​creating exhibition-related proposals and organizing exhibitions, ​developing exhibition schedules and maintaining production deadlines, ​coordinating studio visits and scheduling for the Artist-in-Residence program, and conducting original research.
• Provide organizational, administrative, and project support related to the Museum’s exhibitions and collections.
• Contribute research and writing related to works in the Museum’s collections and exhibitions for Studio magazine and the Museum’s website and social media platforms.
• Assist with the coordination of activities with other Museum departments, including Communications and Learning and Engagement, to support the Museum’s mission to serve artists and the Harlem community.​​
• Assist with special projects as assigned.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills and Qualifications

• Strong background in mid-twentieth century and contemporary art by artists of African descent.
• Advanced skills with Microsoft 365 and Adobe Creative Cloud.
• Familiarity with the Museum System (TMS/TMS Collections) and NetX.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Flexibility in adjusting to shifting priorities with a proven ability to meet multiple deadlines.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in art history, museum studies, or an adjacent field from an accredited college.
• Experience working in a museum or cultural organization.

Physical Demands

• Regularly required to sit for long periods of time at a desk.

Work Environment

• This position is considered a non-exempt position for purposes of federal wage and hour law, which means that you will be eligible for overtime pay for hours in excess of 40 in a given workweek, with evening and weekend availability as needed.
• Fast-paced environment with varying levels of guests and employees present.
• Building Accessibility – office locations are wheelchair accessible, with elevators in the building. Other accessibility accommodations can be further discussed.
• Office desks include acrylic partitions, and the Museum adheres to COVID-19 safety guidelines as mandated by New York City and State

Compensation

$50,000 annually

A competitive benefits package is provided, including medical, dental, life and long-term disability insurance, a retirement account, and substantial vacation time.

Application Instructions

Please upload your resume and a cover letter to your application. No phone calls or emails, please.

Please note that while careful consideration will be given to each submission, only a select number of applicants will be contacted due to the volume of interest.

The Studio Museum in Harlem is an equal opportunity employer and considers all candidates for employment regardless of race, color, sex, age, gender identification, national origin, creed, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or political affiliation. We celebrate our inclusive work environment and encourage folks of all backgrounds and perspectives to apply. At the Studio Museum, we are committed to having an inclusive and transparent environment where every voice is heard and acknowledged. We embrace our differences, and know that our diverse team is a strength that drives our success.

Research shows that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that an applicant meets 100% of the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if much of this job description describes you, then you are highly encouraged to apply for this role.