Associate Curator or Curator, American Art

Associate Curator or Curator of American Art

Location: Kansas City, MO

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art seeks a dynamic and scholarly Curator of American Art to play a vital role in researching, preserving, and interpreting one of the nation's most significant collections of American art, and will consider candidates who meet the requirements of either an Associate Curator or full Curator level.

About the Role

The Associate Curator or Curator of American Art will lead the research, care, and growth of our historic American art collection, including paintings, sculpture, and works on paper from the 18th to early 20th centuries. You'll develop exhibitions, grow the collection, and engage diverse audiences through scholarship and programming.

What You'll Do

• Manage, research, and interpret the historic American art collection.
• Develop original exhibitions and gallery installations.
• Build relationships with collectors, galleries, and donors to support acquisitions.
• Conduct scholarly research and publish related work.
• Collaborate with internal teams on museum projects and initiatives.
• Deliver tours, lectures, and presentations to varied audiences.

What We're Looking For

Associate Curator (level)

• Master's degree in art history, American Studies or related field (ABD/PhD preferred).
• At least 5 years of curatorial experience, ideally in a collecting institution, focused on historic American art.
• Proven success in organizing exhibitions, securing acquisitions, and producing publications.
• Excellent communication, diplomacy, and relationship-building skills.
• Commitment to diversity, inclusion, and audience engagement.

Curator (level)

• Master's degree in art history, American Studies, or related field (ABD/PhD preferred).
• 7 or more years of curatorial experience, ideally in a collecting institution, focused on historic American art.
• Proven success in organizing exhibitions, securing acquisitions, and producing publications.
• Excellent communication, diplomacy, and relationship-building skills.
• Commitment to diversity, inclusion, and audience engagement.

Work Schedule

• Monday-Friday with occasional evenings, weekends, and travel.

Why Join Us?
You'll be part of a collaborative, mission-driven team that values scholarship, creativity, and community engagement while shaping the future of one of the nation's important historic American art collections.
Why the Nelson-Atkins?
We are a vibrant, free-admission institution with a world-class collection, a strong commitment to scholarship and diversity, and a mission to create a sense of belonging for all. You'll join a talented and collaborative team dedicated to the power of art to inspire, challenge, and connect.
Compensation & Benefits:

This is a full-time, exempt position with salary commensurate with experience and qualifications:

Associate Curator Starting Salary Range: $71,173 to $80,092 per year

Curator Starting Salary Range: $85,490 to $96,129 per year

We offer a generous benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; retirement contributions; paid time off; onsite wellness center, and professional development opportunities.

Non-Discrimination

The Nelson-Atkins is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages applications from people of color, persons with disabilities, women, and LGBTQ+ applicants.

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided based on qualifications, merit, and business need.

For individuals with disabilities who would like to request an accommodation, please contact the Human Resources Department.

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art conducts pre-employment background checks as part of our selection process.

Salary information is a general guideline only. The Museum considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer.