Museum Curator

Veit•Rogers, MN

About The Position

POSITION SUMMARY The Museum Curator is responsible for preserving, interpreting, and showcasing the museum’s collection of antique and historically significant automobiles. This role ensures the quality, accuracy, and appeal of all exhibits while maintaining proper conservation standards. The Curator leads research, collection management, exhibit development, and public engagement initiatives that enhance the museum’s mission and visitor experience. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Collection Management & Preservation Oversee the care, documentation, and conservation of antique automobiles and related artifacts. Develop and maintain accurate cataloging systems, provenance records, and condition reports. Ensure proper storage, handling, and environmental controls to preserve vehicles and artifacts. Coordinate acquisition strategies, including donations, purchases, and loans. Exhibition Development Design, plan, and curate permanent and temporary exhibits highlighting automotive history, engineering, culture, and innovation. Create compelling interpretive materials including labels, signage, multimedia content, brochures, and virtual exhibits. Collaborate with restoration experts, fabricators, and collections staff to prepare vehicles for display. Research & Interpretation Conduct in-depth research on antique automobiles, designers, manufacturers, and historical eras. Serve as museum subject-matter expert and resource for the public, staff, and media. Develop educational programs, tours, lectures, and events that bring automotive history to life. Public Engagement & Outreach Represent the museum through speaking engagements, community presentations, and partnerships. Collaborate with marketing teams on storytelling, exhibit promotion, and public programs. Assist with donor relations and development events connected to the museum’s collection. Operational & Administrative Leadership Develop budgets and manage exhibition project costs. Oversee museum volunteers. Ensure compliance with museum standards, ethical guidelines, and industry best practices. Coordinate with lenders, insurance providers, and transport companies for vehicle loans and exhibitions. Evening or weekend hours will occasionally be required for special events, car shows, and tours.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Museum Studies, History, Art History, Automotive History, or a related field.
Experience working with museum collections, archives, or exhibitions.
Strong research, writing, and communication skills.
Knowledge of conservation practices and object handling standards.
Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.

Responsibilities

Oversee the care, documentation, and conservation of antique automobiles and related artifacts.
Develop and maintain accurate cataloging systems, provenance records, and condition reports.
Ensure proper storage, handling, and environmental controls to preserve vehicles and artifacts.
Coordinate acquisition strategies, including donations, purchases, and loans.
Design, plan, and curate permanent and temporary exhibits highlighting automotive history, engineering, culture, and innovation.
Create compelling interpretive materials including labels, signage, multimedia content, brochures, and virtual exhibits.
Collaborate with restoration experts, fabricators, and collections staff to prepare vehicles for display.
Conduct in-depth research on antique automobiles, designers, manufacturers, and historical eras.
Serve as museum subject-matter expert and resource for the public, staff, and media.
Develop educational programs, tours, lectures, and events that bring automotive history to life.
Represent the museum through speaking engagements, community presentations, and partnerships.
Collaborate with marketing teams on storytelling, exhibit promotion, and public programs.
Assist with donor relations and development events connected to the museum’s collection.
Develop budgets and manage exhibition project costs.
Oversee museum volunteers.
Ensure compliance with museum standards, ethical guidelines, and industry best practices.
Coordinate with lenders, insurance providers, and transport companies for vehicle loans and exhibitions.