Lead Curator - Museum Collections

Our client, a renowned cultural institution in Huntsville, Alabama , is seeking an experienced Lead Curator to oversee and manage significant portions of their extensive collections. This pivotal role involves the meticulous care, research, interpretation, and exhibition of artifacts and artworks, ensuring their preservation and accessibility for future generations. The Lead Curator will collaborate closely with exhibition designers, educators, and researchers to develop engaging public programs and scholarly content. This hybrid position requires a dedicated professional who can balance on-site work with remote research and administrative tasks.

Key Responsibilities: Develop and implement curatorial strategies for assigned collections, including acquisition, research, and exhibition planning. Conduct in-depth scholarly research on collection objects and contribute to publications, catalogs, and digital initiatives. Oversee the physical care, conservation, and cataloging of collection items, adhering to best practices in collections management. Organize and manage temporary and permanent exhibitions, from concept development to installation and deinstallation. Collaborate with exhibition design teams to create compelling and informative displays. Develop and deliver interpretive content, lectures, and tours for diverse audiences. Cultivate relationships with donors, patrons, and scholars to support collection growth and research. Supervise and mentor curatorial assistants, interns, and volunteers. Stay current with trends and scholarship in relevant art historical or historical fields. Manage curatorial budgets and contribute to grant writing efforts.
Qualifications: Master's degree or Ph.D. in Art History, Museum Studies, History, or a related field. Minimum of 5 years of progressive curatorial experience in a museum setting. Demonstrated expertise in the specific collection areas relevant to the institution (e.g., aerospace history, fine arts, cultural artifacts). Proven track record of organizing successful exhibitions and producing scholarly publications. Strong knowledge of collections management software and conservation principles. Excellent research, writing, and public speaking skills. Ability to work collaboratively with internal teams and external partners. Proficiency in at least one foreign language relevant to the collections is desirable. Experience working in a hybrid or flexible work environment. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the narrative of significant historical and cultural assets in a vibrant community.