Position Title: Curator Reports To: Director of Interpretation 

FLSA Status: Full Time 

Function: The Curator is responsible for the content development, planning, and 

implementation of the Fairfield Museum’s exhibitions, as well as overseeing the development of Museum collections. 

PositionResponsibilities: 

  • Exhibitions: In consultation with Museum staff, develop and implement a museum-wide exhibit and interpretive plan. 
    • Plan, research, develop, and implement a regular schedule of changing exhibitions. 
    • Oversee the advance scheduling and implementation of all exhibitions in the museum’s galleries, the 18th century Ogden House, and in historic properties on the Museum Commons (Sun Tavern, Victorian Cottage and Barn). 
    • Conduct research as needed and prepare interpretive content with museum staff and/or outside consultants.
    • Supervise guest curators, designers and exhibition fabricators; administer contracts, schedules and exhibition budgets.
    • Design and install exhibitions and/or direct contract staff in design and fabrication. 
    • Work with the Museum’s education staff to develop exhibit-related programming and train docents in presenting programs and tours. 
  • Collections: With the Collections Manager and Librarian, oversee the development and care of the Museum’s collections. 
    • Consult with Board committees and staff on recommendations for acquisitions and deaccessions.
    • Ensure storage and record keeping is maintained to professional standards. 
    • Make recommendations for acquisitions and deaccessions. 
    • Plan and manage conservation assessments and supervise contract conservators.
    • Keep up to date on professional standards for collection care and management. 
  • Expertise: Maintain a high level of expertise in museum curatorial, interpretation, and collections management, including a thorough understanding of relevant professional, ethical and legal issues, as well as a strong understanding of regional history and culture. 
  • Outreach: Oversee interpretive collaborations with community organizations, affinity groups, schools, and other constituents. Represent the Fairfield Museum in the community and among professional organizations, and act as a public spokesman for the institution when appropriate. 
  • Teamwork: Work closely with museum staff and Board committees to develop and implement the exhibition schedule, and direct the museum’s curatorial functions. Serve on program and exhibit committees as needed. 
  • Evaluation: Design and oversee exhibition audience assessments that drive program innovation, quality and adaptability. 
  • Development: Assist in grant writing and sponsorship development that support exhibitions and programs. 
  • Performs other activities as required. 

Position Requirements: 

  • Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree preferred. 
  • Demonstrated knowledge and experience in the humanities, arts, and/or cultural sectors. 
  • Three or more years of experience in content development of museum exhibitions, as well as exhibit planning and production. 
  • Highly developed skills in written and verbal communication. 
  • Excellent organizational skills and careful attention to detail. 
  • Project management experience. 
  • Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, interns, and volunteers. 
  • Creative, flexible and innovative thinker and planner with excellent multi-tasking abilities. 
  • Ability to maintain a high level of poise and professionalism in all circumstances. 

This is a full-time position requiring occasional evening and weekend hours. The position will require employee to lift, bend, stoop, walk, speak and stand for up to 7 hours in a day. Competitive salary with a generous benefit package that includes health, disability, dental and life insurance, and employer-sponsored 401K. 

To Apply: 

Email a cover letter and resume detailing relevant work and educational experience to search@fairfieldhs.org. The Fairfield Museum is an equal opportunity employer. 

About the Fairfield Museum: 

Fairfield Museum is a thriving cultural center that uses history and the arts to strengthen community and help shape its future. We believe in the power of the arts and the humanities to inspire imagination, stimulate thought, and transform society. Central to our community- focused mission is a commitment to provide a trustworthy environment where multiple perspectives can be heard and collective solutions explored. Fairfield Museum is a vibrant nexus of community life that welcomes more than 35,000 visitors annually. We are a leading and award-winning center for arts and humanities education that provides high-quality school programs to more than 4,000 students each year. Fairfield, CT is a thriving and youthful community of great restaurants, lively music venues, theater and two large universities. It is an hour 1⁄2 away from New York by train and 1⁄2 hour from New Haven, CT.