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 an Assistant Curator to join the Curatorial department responsible for the Museum’s collections and exhibition program. The Assistant Curator, reporting to the Curator, coordinates and manages the Artist-in-Residence program and its related exhibitions and publications. Additionally, the position has the opportunity to propose and organize collection and loan exhibitions, write texts for publications, and participate in public program engagements. This role helps establish and maintain records and files that are necessary for the operation of the curatorial department. The Assistant Curator collaborates with individuals across other museum departments, artists, and other art professionals as tied to the work of the department. 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 August 31, 2025, will be given priority.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

• Oversee the Museum’s Artist-in-Residence program, including but not limited to developing and maintaining workflows, program logistics, and schedules; facilitating communications with the artists; and managing the application process and selection panel. 
• Organize the annual Artist-in-Residence exhibition and produce accompanying brochure. 
• Conduct research on, create proposals for, and organize both original and assigned projects, commissions, installations, and collection and loan exhibitions for the Museum. 
• Conceive, write, and develop exhibition didactics, publications, digital content, scholarly articles, and related texts. 
• Work collaboratively with the Collection and Exhibitions Management team on exhibition planning, installation, security, and maintenance, including issues concerning conservation, framing, and loans. 
• Effectively communicate and collaborate with Museum staff and external colleagues to enrich and expand the work of the department and of the Museum generally.  
• Compile and maintain artist, exhibition, object, and publication files for TMS and the Museum archives according to the standards established by the Collections Database Manager and the Archivist.  
• Propose and help facilitate acquisitions to the Museum’s collection.  
• Maintain relationships with artists, collectors, curators, galleries, patrons, and others relevant to the Museum’s mission and work.  
• Represent the Museum at public programs, panel discussions and symposia, patron events, and exhibition discussions with Museum constituencies.  
• Complete administrative tasks related to the department budget, calendar, exhibition schedule, etc., including developing and managing project and program budgets. 
• Supervise a fellow. 
• Other duties as assigned. 

Skills and Qualifications  

To be successful in this role, the Team Member must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. 

• 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 
• 5+ years of experience working in a museum or cultural organization 

Physical Demands 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  

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

Work Environment 

• This position is an exempt position. 
• 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

$70,000 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 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.