Curatorial Assistant

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Job Title: Curatorial Assistant

Department: Wexner Center for Arts | Administration

The Wexner Center for the Arts at The Ohio State University is an internationally recognized multidisciplinary contemporary arts center dedicated to supporting artistic innovation, experimentation, and public engagement. Through exhibitions, performances, artist residencies, film, education, and public programs, the Wexner Center serves as a laboratory for the exploration of contemporary culture and ideas. The Center is committed to fostering meaningful connections between artists, students, scholars, and the broader community.

Position Summary

The Curatorial Assistant is an important member of the Visual Arts department, providing research, exhibition, project management, and administrative support to the curatorial team. This position offers an exceptional opportunity for an emerging museum professional to gain broad experience in the development and realization of ambitious contemporary art exhibitions, publications, commissions, and public programs.

The ideal candidate will be highly organized, intellectually curious, detail-oriented, and passionate about contemporary art. They will possess excellent research, writing, communication, and project management skills, along with the ability to manage multiple long-term and short-term projects simultaneously.

This is a full-time, limited-term appointment of two years, with the possibility of a one-year extension (maximum three years total) based on exceptional performance and departmental needs. The position includes a six-month probationary period.

Monday-Friday, with occasional evening and weekend hours required for exhibition openings, public programs, installations, and special events

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Art History, Curatorial Studies, Museum Studies, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and professional experience.
• 0-2 years of relevant experience
• Demonstrated knowledge of modern and contemporary art.
• Strong research, writing, editing, and organizational skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining exceptional attention to detail.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and collaborative project-management tools.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a fast-paced environment.

Preferred

• Master's degree in Art History, Curatorial Studies, Museum Studies,
• Prior museum, gallery, non-profit arts organization, or academic curatorial experience.
• Experience supporting contemporary art exhibitions, publications, or artist commissions.
• Familiarity with collections management or exhibition databases.
• Experience working with artists, galleries, lenders, and arts professionals.
• Knowledge of current issues and discourse in contemporary art and curatorial practice.
• Experience writing for both scholarly and public audiences.

Physical Requirements

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

• Ability to work at a computer for extended periods.
• Ability to move throughout galleries, offices, storage areas, and event spaces.
• Occasional lifting, carrying, or moving of materials up to 25 pounds.
• Occasional evening and weekend work required.

Compensation and Benefits

The Curatorial Assistant is a full-time benefits-eligible position through The Ohio State University. Salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. Eligible employees receive access to university benefits, including health insurance, retirement programs, paid time off, professional development opportunities, and other university-supported resources.

Application Process

Applicants should submit:

• Cover Letter
• Curriculum Vitae or Resume
• Writing Sample (5-10 pages preferred)
• Contact information for three professional references

The Wexner Center for the Arts and The Ohio State University encourage applications from individuals whose experiences and perspectives will contribute to the vitality and excellence of the institution.

Additional Information

Position is a member of the American Federation of State, County, & Municipal Employees Local 322, Ohio Council 8, AFL-CIO.

The target hourly range for this job profile is $21.55-$27.50. The actual salary paid to an individual will vary based on multiple factors, including but not limited to, education, years of experience, internal equity, etc.

Location: Wexner Center for the Arts (0386)

Position Type: Regular

Scheduled Hours: 40

Shift: First Shift

Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check. A drug screen or physical may be required during the post offer process.

Thank you for your interest in positions at The Ohio State University and Wexner Medical Center. Once you have applied, the most updated information on the status of your application can be found by visiting the Candidate Home section of this site. Please view your submitted applications by logging in and reviewing your status. For answers to additional questions please review the frequently asked questions.

The university is an equal opportunity employer, including veterans and disability.