Curators
Job Zone 5 - Extensive preparation needed
Administer collections, such as artwork, collectibles, historic items, or scientific specimens of museums or other institutions. May conduct instructional, research, or public service activities of institution.
Median pay: $63,420/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +7% projected growth, 2024–2034 — faster than average.
About 1,800 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Master's degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Plan and organize the acquisition, storage, and exhibition of collections and related materials, including the selection of exhibition themes and designs, and develop or install exhibit materials.
• Develop and maintain an institution's registration, cataloging, and basic record-keeping systems, using computer databases.
• Plan and conduct special research projects in area of interest or expertise.
• Provide information from the institution's holdings to other curators and to the public.
• Negotiate and authorize purchase, sale, exchange, or loan of collections.
• Study, examine, and test acquisitions to authenticate their origin, composition, history, and to assess their current value.
• Inspect premises to assess the need for repairs and to ensure that climate and pest control issues are addressed.
• Write and review grant proposals, journal articles, institutional reports, and publicity materials.
What's the median pay for Curators?
The median pay for Curators is $63,420 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Curators?
Employment for Curators is projected to change +7% from 2024 to 2034 - faster than average.
What education is typically required for Curators?
Typical entry-level education: Master's degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Curators?
About 1,800 openings per year, on average, over the decade.