Curatorial Associate, Permanent Collections & Research

Association of Academic Museums & Galleries.; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The Curatorial Associate, Permanent Collections at the Smart Museum of Art, University of Chicago, is a one-year, benefits-eligible position supporting the Curator’s collection-focused responsibilities.

The role emphasizes developing the Museum’s new collection plan, researching for a collection handbook, and coordinating the reorganization of objects across on-site and off-site storage in partnership with the Feitler Center for Academic Inquiry and Registration.

Qualifications

• Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
• Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
• Master’s degree in art history, museum studies, or a related field.
• Background working with collections management databases; familiarity with TMS preferred.

Responsibilities

• Supports the development of the Museum’s new collection plan, including research and drafting sections for review.
• Prepares summaries, materials, and records to support curatorial consultations.
• Manages production milestones for the collection handbook across workflows.
• Conducts object research for handbook entries, maintaining accuracy in the CMS.
• Drafts and edits object entries and supporting materials for review; coordinates image rights and delivery.
• Liaises with editors, designers, and the press as directed.
• Supports the reorganization of the collection between on-site and off-site storage.
• Assists in evaluating objects for long-term loan or re-installation.
• Responds to research inquiries about the collection from faculty, students, scholars, and the public.

Skills

Strong writing skills

Project management

Interpersonal communication

MS Office & Google Workspace

Research skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field

Master’s degree in art history or museum studies

Tools

TMS (The Museum System)

Job description

The Curatorial Associate, Permanent Collections at the Smart Museum of Art, University of Chicago, is a one-year, benefits-eligible position supporting the Curator’s collection-focused responsibilities.

The role emphasizes developing the Museum’s new collection plan, researching for a collection handbook, and coordinating the reorganization of objects across on-site and off-site storage in partnership with the Feitler Center for Academic Inquiry and Registration.