Curator Salary

A curator is a person who oversees the functions and affairs of a museum. The arrange for exhibits, events, fundraisers, research programs, and anything else that goes on in a particular section of a museum. Many are in charge of planning out the years scheduled events and displays, which shows will be presented, and help to date and authenticate many of the artifacts or pieces of art that come into the museum.

Museums can house anything from paintings and fine art to dinosaur bones and mummies, and it is the curator's job to keep all of the exhibits up-to-date, present those exhibits that will keep visitors coming to that particular institution. They must ensure the safety of all artifacts that come into their facility, and ensure that they can be enjoyed by all who enter.

Most importantly, as experts in their field, they are responsible for helping to identify and date certain artifacts or works or art that have not been identified yet. They will also be in charge of a large part of the staff at that particular museum.

Becoming a curator means that you are an expert in the field of this particular museum. If you are looking to become a curator at a fine art museum, then you should pursue a Ph.D. in Fine Arts, with an emphasis on art history. Similar tracks should be followed depending on they type of museum you would like to work for. Also, additional degrees in library sciences is very helpful, since these help prepare you for work cataloging, storing, and organizing several different pieces at a time.

The standard curator can make between $30,000 and $75,000 a year. This wide variation is due to the experience factor, which can play a big part in the curator salary. Experience and the type of institution you are working for can provide a much higher starting salary. Generally, fine art and natural history museums, especially those with a specialty, pay the best.

Becoming a curator can be very difficult due to the fierce competition found in the field. There are often more applicants than available positions, and many of the candidates who will apply are extremely over-qualified for these positions. To help increase your chances of employment as a curator, you should pursue multiple degrees, especially in specific fields and library sciences.

Post your salary and location: