"Art Gallery and Collection Curator"

Job Details

ABOUT US
We are Harper College…the college in your community.
The College was established by referendum in 1965 and opened September 1967. It is named for Dr. William Rainey Harper, a pioneer in the junior college movement in the United States and the first president of the University of Chicago.
Harper College is now one of the nation’s premier community colleges and one of the largest, serving approximately 29,000 students annually in Chicago’s northwest suburbs. The College’s academic programs prepare students for rewarding careers and for transfer to four-year universities. Harper offers associate degree and certification programs, advanced career programs, workforce training, professional development, continuing education classes, accelerated degree options for adults and developmental education programs.
At Harper College, we are committed to fair and equitable compensation for all employees. In compliance with Illinois state law, we prioritize transparency in salary information. Our salary ranges reflect our dedication to attracting and retaining top talent while ensuring equitable pay practices.We encourage open discussions about compensation and invite you to reach out with any questions you may have regarding salary details. Harper College typically offers compensation up to the median market rate for this position. We aim to ensure our pay is competitive while aligning with both the role's requirements and the candidate's experience. To review all benefit information visit us at:
https://www.harpercollege.edu/about/directory/hr/index.php

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Acceptable Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Art History, Museum Studies, Curatorial Practice, or a related field

Experience: Minimum of three years of experience in a gallery, museum, or similar arts environment. Demonstrated skills in: Art handling and gallery maintenance,
Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, and collection management software listed above, Communication, presentation, and community engagement and Contemporary art practices and inclusive curatorial strategies.

JOB DESCRIPTION ABOUT THE TEAM

RESPONSIBILITIES

The Art Curator oversees the care, restoration, acquisition and management of Harper College’s permanent art collection and curating dynamic programming in the Martha J. Bell Art Gallery. Works in close collaboration with the College’s Art Committee—comprising members of the Art Department and the Foundation—to ensure the collection and gallery reflect the diversity, creativity, and educational mission of the institution. This position integrates responsibilities for both the stewardship of the College’s extensive art collection and the coordination of the Exhibition and Visiting Artist Program, fostering engagement across campus and the broader community.
Related to the Art Collection

• Oversee the conservation and restoration of artworks, including bringing in contractors and collaborating with specialists as needed.
• Curate and site artwork across campus in alignment with institutional values (Respect, Integrity, Collaboration, and Excellence) and aesthetics.
• Maintain official records of the collection, oversee appraisals, and conduct regular condition surveys.
• Recommend and manage acquisitions and deaccessions, with a focus on expanding inclusive representation and elevating diverse artistic voices.
• Evaluate and improve collection management systems and procedures, implementing best practices in alignment with museum and gallery standards.
• Coordinate community engagement efforts, including public and private tours of the collection.
• Manage the collection budget, process invoices, and maintain accurate financial records.
• Embrace digital tools for archiving, virtual exhibitions, online promotion, and enhancing the collection’s web presence.
• Collaborate with the Chair of the Art Collection Workgroup as part of the shared governance process, ensuring transparency and alignment with institutional priorities.

Related to the Exhibition and Visiting Artist Programming

• Plan and execute 4–6 exhibitions annually in the Martha Bell Gallery, including:
  • A national juried exhibition
  • A juried student exhibition
  • Solo and small group curated exhibitions
• Coordinate all aspects of exhibition logistics, including shipping, art handling, installation, and documentation.
• Research and propose artists for future exhibitions that reflect the diversity of the Harper College community and represent a wide range of media, perspectives, and artistic approaches.
• Promote exhibitions in collaboration with the Marketing Department, including email campaigns, social media, and press releases.
• Organize and host visiting artist events such as lectures, receptions, and classroom visits.
• Oversee gallery operations, including budget management, open hours, and facility maintenance.

Performs related duties as assigned.

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements:

This position requires both office-based and on-site work in gallery and campus environments. Must be able to safely handle and move artwork and exhibition materials, including lifting up to 40 pounds, climbing ladders, and using tools for installation.
Frequent standing, walking, bending, and reaching are required during exhibition setup and art handling. Occasional evening and weekend hours may be required for exhibition openings, artist talks, or special events. Work may involve exposure to dust, packing materials, and art conservation substances; appropriate safety protocols and PPE will be provided.
Proficiency with computers and digital platforms is essential.

Equipment/Tools Used:

Art Handling Tools: ladders, carts, dollies, hanging systems, hand tools (e.g., drills, levels, screwdrivers), gloves, and other materials for safe installation and deinstallation of artwork.

Digital Tools and Software:

• Collection Management Systems
• Design and Documentation Software: Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator), Microsoft Office Suite
• Virtual Exhibition and Archiving Platforms
• Web and Social Media Tools: content management systems, email marketing platforms, and social media scheduling tools

Photography and Documentation Equipment: DSLR cameras, tripods, lighting kits, and scanners for artwork documentation and promotional use.

AV Equipment: projectors, microphones, and speakers for artist talks and gallery events.