Curator

University of Nebraska–Lincoln; Nebraska; On-site; USD 54,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is seeking a Curator for the International Quilt Museum. Responsibilities include the care and preservation of artifacts and the research for educational programs. The ideal candidate will possess a PhD in a relevant field and at least 5 years of museum experience.

This full-time role offers an annual minimum salary of $60,000. A strong commitment to preservation practices and public engagement is essential. Applicants with excellent communication and organizational skills are encouraged to apply.

Qualifications

• PhD in textiles, art history, museum studies or related field such as anthropology or material culture.
• 5 years relevant museum experience including care and handling of objects.
• Experience supervising others and working with volunteers.

Responsibilities

• Care and preservation of all artifacts in IQM collections.
• Research and interpretation for exhibitions and educational programs.
• Disseminate results of research through publications and lectures.

Skills

Public speaking

Organizational skills

Interpersonal skills

Computer and database skills

Education

PhD in textiles, art history or related field

Tools

FileMaker Pro

Access

Excel

Job description

Position Information

Working Title: Curator

Department: International Quilt Museum-5976

Requisition Number: S_260450

Posting Open Date: 06/19/2026

Application Review Date: 07/06/2026

Open Until Filled: Yes

Description of Work

Responsible for care and preservation of all artifacts in IQM collections in accordance with the highest professional and ethical standards. Responsible for research and interpretation as applicable to exhibitions and educational programs; responsible for disseminating results of research through publications, exhibitions, lectures.
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln seeks to attract and retain a high performing and collaborative workforce. UNL is committed to providing a work environment and culture that fosters personal and professional success where every person and every interaction matters. The University is proud to be one of Nebraska’s preferred and largest employers where individuals are able to participate and contribute to their full potential. As an EO/AA employer, qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation. See: http://www.unl.edu/equity/notice-nondiscrimination

Minimum Required Qualifications

• PhDin textiles, art history, museum studies or related field such as anthropology or material culture
• 5 years relevant museum experience including care and handling of objects, preferably textiles, data collection, 5 years of experience accessioning and deaccessioning museum collections and curating and installing exhibitions, 5 years of experience supervising others; simultaneous/concurrent experience considered
• Experience working with volunteers
• Knowledge of best practices, policies and procedures for museum collection.
• Public speaking experience
• Knowledge of textile handling and storage
• Computer and database skills essential
• Good organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills necessary
• Experience interfacing with and stewarding donors.
• Availability to travel nationally and internationally.

Preferred Qualifications

• 7 years of experience with historic and contemporary textiles, preferably quilts and related textiles;
• Experience in research, writing and editing of collection-and exhibition-related publications
• Leadership of, and working with, committees
• Grant writing experience
• Ability to work well under pressure and with conflicting demands
• Excellent presentation skills
• Experience giving academic/educational presentations or lectures
• Proficient with FileMaker Pro, Access and Excel.

Pre-Placement Driving Record Review Required

No

Physical Required

No

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) required.

Subject to DOT approved pre-employment & random testing for alcohol and controlled substances.

Criminal History Background Check Required

Yes

Posted Salary

$60,000/yr. minimum

Contact

Leslie Levy
[e-mail]

Job Category (old)

Managerial/Professional

Job Type

Full-Time

Alternate Work Schedule

(if other than 8-5)

Work Location

Lincoln, NE

Position funded by grant or other form of temporary funding?

No