Curators
Curators manage and interpret collections in museums and cultural institutions, overseeing artwork, historical artifacts, scientific specimens, or other items of value. They organize acquisitions, develop exhibitions, conduct research, and create educational programs. Curators work in museums, historical societies, zoos, botanical gardens, and similar organizations.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against curators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A curator's week might include cataloging newly acquired artifacts, researching provenance and historical context, meeting with conservators about preservation needs, and planning an upcoming exhibition layout. They write interpretive labels, coordinate with exhibition designers, respond to researcher requests, and may give public talks. Administrative tasks like grant writing, collection documentation, and donor communication are also routine parts of the role.
Who this work suits
Holland code CSE. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to be methodical and detail-oriented, comfortable with organizational systems and procedures. You're drawn to connecting with people through education and storytelling, and you find meaning in preserving knowledge and making collections accessible to others.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a master’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $74,030 | $93,310 | $111,530 | 140 |
| New Hampshire | $57,720 | $82,490 | $97,280 | 60 |
| New York | $58,340 | $79,120 | $103,240 | 1,330 |
| California | $66,480 | $78,740 | $99,430 | 1,140 |
| Rhode Island | $64,430 | $77,930 | $104,350 | 70 |
| New Jersey | $58,280 | $77,800 | $93,240 | 120 |
| Massachusetts | $58,380 | $77,790 | $97,880 | 370 |
| Connecticut | $59,500 | $76,510 | $102,110 | 190 |
| South Dakota | $57,460 | $74,990 | $95,780 | 50 |
| Washington | $58,740 | $74,030 | $93,090 | 260 |
| Colorado | $60,460 | $73,630 | $88,740 | 300 |
| Nevada | $53,140 | $69,900 | $83,880 | 100 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Interpretive Trainer (CIT) — National Association for Interpretation
- Certified Heritage Interpreter (CHI) — National Association for Interpretation
- Certified Interpretive Planner (CIP) — National Association for Interpretation
- Certified Interpretive Manager (CIM) — National Association for Interpretation
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against curators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 25-4012.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.