About Our Organization

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 seeking a Curatorial Assistant to join the growing Curatorial department responsible for the Museum’s collections and exhibition program. This position, reporting to the Curator, will support research and logistical needs for the department, with a specific focus on the collections, and serves an important role in the administration of acquisitions, loan and rights requests, collection inventory, and expanded digital access. The Curatorial Assistant will work closely with colleagues on archives- and collections-related research, exhibition planning and administration, and collection maintenance and stewardship. The position requires a candidate equipped to think broadly and innovatively about the Museum’s artist-centered mission, while also independently managing a wide range of administrative responsibilities. Applications received by July 31, 2025 will be given priority.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

• Work closely with colleagues on collection exhibition research and administration, including assisting in the preparation of checklists and didactic materials, cataloguing objects, and liaising with other departments and external colleagues on conservation, framing, installation, catalogue production, etc.
• Research and write about collection artists and works of art.
• Coordinate logistics around and prepare materials for the Acquisition Committee and internal acquisition and loan review meetings.
• Serve as the curatorial point person to expand the collections’ presence on the website.
• Manage rights and reproduction requests.
• Catalogue object, constituent, exhibition, loan, and event records in TMS Collections and NetX, working closely with the Collections Database Manager, and maintain related paper and digital files.
• Coordinate scheduling, communications, and logistics with internal and external colleagues around loan and special exhibitions, including assisting in the preparation of loan requests, exhibition packets, checklists, and didactic materials.
• Research, conceive, propose, and develop exhibitions, as approved by supervisor.
• Answer queries from both the general public and scholars regarding the collections.
• Provide support for general departmental administration, including scheduling, invoicing, and co-managing interns.
• 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
• Familiarity with The Museum System (TMS/TMS Collections) and NetX
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 and Adobe Creative Cloud
• 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 from an accredited university in Art History or a related field
• 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 a non-exempt position and may require working more than forty (40) hours during a work week.
• A fast-paced environment with varying levels of guests and employees present.
• Works with a group of team members within Building Operations – a critical department formed of engineering, Facilities, and security staff – and other museum staff.
• Building Accessibility – office locations are wheelchair accessible, with elevators in the building. Other accessible accommodation can be further discussed.

Compensation

$55,000 annually

Salary is commensurate with experience within the guidelines of a small not-for-profit. 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, cover letter, and a writing sample 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.