Curatorial Assistant

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Curatorial Assistant (Art) / Museum Specialist
Smithsonian American Art Museum, Washington, DC

The Smithsonian American Art Museum (SAAM) is seeking a Curatorial Assistant to provide logistical, administrative, and research support to the curatorial team, primarily focusing on the museum’s acquisitions program and permanent collection. This is a Trust Fund position, meaning it is funded through a variety of sources such as donations and grants. The position is temporary, with a maximum duration of five years. The role is full-time and based in Washington, DC with a hybrid work schedule.

Key Responsibilities:

Assist the Curatorial Collections Coordinator with the management of the museum’s acquisitions program.
Conduct research related to collections, exhibitions, and publications, including basic research on biographic information, attribution, media, and dates.
Coordinate conservation, matting, framing, and photography needs for new acquisitions, exhibitions, and gallery installations.
Maintain and develop curatorial files for collection objects and assist in facilitating appointment requests from museum staff, scholars, and external researchers.
Draft and format text, captions, and other exhibition materials.
Organize and track curatorial projects, serve as a liaison between departments, and prepare reports and checklists.

Qualifications:

Two full academic years of graduate education, or a master’s degree in a related field (Art History, Museum Studies, etc.).
Knowledge of museum policies, collections management, and acquisition procedures.
Strong research skills in American art history, with the ability to perform detailed documentation and analysis.
Proficiency in information management, including database systems, and practical editing skills.
Experience working in a museum or cultural heritage institution is preferred.

Compensation:

Salary: $68,405 per year
Benefits: Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, commuter benefits, retirement plan (403b), and discounts for Smithsonian memberships and museum stores.

Application Deadline:

October 21, 2024 (the application window may close earlier if 100 applications are received).

For more information and to apply, visit Smithsonian American Art Museum.