Position opening – Exhibitions Manager and Associate Curator
Department: Exhibitions & Collections
Reports to: Director of Library and Collections
Classification: Full-Time, Non-Exempt
Salary Range: $24.00 – $28.00 per hour
Position Summary
The Exhibitions Curator works with museum staff to bring the Maritime Museum of San Diego’s exhibitions and historic vessels to life. This role supports content development, liaison among guest curators, staff, and exhibition designers, the preparation of gallery and shipboard exhibit spaces, and the safe handling and installation of artifacts, models, and interpretive materials across our collection. Some evening and weekend hours are required.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Create content to upgrade existing and/or create new exhibition labels
- Perform routine touch-up, repair, and upkeep in galleries and on outdoor and shipboard exhibits
- Curate in-house exhibitions and manage curatorial schedule
- Handle, pack, transport, store, and install artifacts, ship models, and exhibit materials spanning a range of media and maritime traditions
- Follow established best practices for the safe handling and movement of collection objects
- Assist with loading and unloading exhibition shipments; operate a box truck to move objects between the Museum and offsite storage
- Install and maintain audio-visual components used in exhibits
- Support compliance with Cal-OSHA requirements, including documentation and training on tools, materials, and equipment
- Respond to threats to collection objects or vessels from unanticipated conditions, moving items to safety per the Museum’s Disaster Preparedness Plan
- Attend relevant training sessions, conferences, or workshops as opportunities arise
- Take on other departmental duties as needed
Qualifications
Education
- Ability to write exhibition content according to industry standards on a variety of subjects
- Prior experience in art or artifact handling and exhibit installation preferred
- Familiarity with shop tools, hardware, and materials
- A degree in history, art history, art, design, or a related field preferred, or equivalent trade experience
- At least two years of museum exhibition and curatorial experience preferred
Knowledge
- Safe operation of portable and stationary power tools preferred
- Understanding of archival standards for collection care preferred
- Ability to read shop drawings preferred
- Familiarity with OSHA regulations and guidelines preferred
Abilities
- Able to work independently and collaboratively to deliver high-quality results under firm deadlines
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy
- Discretion, cooperation, and respect in a team setting
Skills
- Experience in carpentry, exhibit fabrication, finishing, and/or lighting preferred
- Willingness and ability to learn to operate a scissor lift and box truck
- Solid organizational and time-management skills
Other
- Valid California driver’s license and proof of insurance required
Physical Demands
- Ability to lift and carry up to 60 pounds
- Ability to work overhead, on ladders, and with lift equipment
- Regular walking, including stairs and shipboard access points
Work Environment
- Fast-paced, deadline-driven setting in an exciting historic maritime atmosphere
- Workspaces may be dusty, noisy, and include outdoor and shipboard conditions
To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume to:
Apply Here
Or mail to:
Maritime Museum of San Diego
Attention: Gener Austria
1492 N. Harbor Drive
San Diego, CA 92101