Aviation Museum Curator Job Description [Updated for 2024]

In the era of flight and exploration, the focus on aviation museum curators has never been more significant.

As aviation history continues to evolve, the demand for knowledgeable individuals who can preserve, organize, and interpret our aeronautical heritage grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an aviation museum curator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply captivated by the intriguing world of aviation history,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a tailored aviation museum curator job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s take off into the details.

Aviation Museum Curator Duties and Responsibilities

Aviation Museum Curators are responsible for acquiring, storing, and exhibiting a collection of aircrafts and related artifacts.

They ensure the artifacts are preserved, documented, and displayed to educate the public about aviation history.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Researching and acquiring aircraft and related artifacts for the museum’s collection
• Organizing, cataloging, and maintaining the museum’s collection
• Planning and organizing exhibits to effectively display the museum’s collection
• Conducting research to provide accurate information about the artifacts
• Assisting in the development and implementation of educational programs and workshops
• Collaborating with other institutions for loans or exchanges of artifacts
• Ensuring the safety and preservation of the collection by implementing appropriate conservation strategies
• Applying for grants and funding for the museum
• Engaging with visitors and providing guided tours and presentations
• Supervising museum staff and volunteers

 

Aviation Museum Curator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a knowledgeable and passionate Aviation Museum Curator.

As a Curator, you will be responsible for managing the museum’s collections, organizing exhibitions, and conducting educational research.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in aviation history, excellent organizational skills, and a passion for preserving and sharing historical artifacts.

Your main goal will be to ensure that the museum’s collections are properly maintained and presented in a way that is both informative and engaging to the public.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage and maintain the museum’s collection of aviation artifacts
• Plan, organize, and curate exhibitions
• Conduct and facilitate educational research
• Engage with visitors and conduct guided tours when necessary
• Collaborate with other institutions for joint exhibitions or research
• Secure funding through grants, donations, and fundraising events
• Ensure the preservation and conservation of the museum’s collections
• Manage museum staff and volunteers

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Museum Curator, preferably in an aviation museum
• Degree in Museum Studies, History, Art History, or a related field
• Knowledge of aviation history and related artifacts
• Excellent organizational and project management skills
• Ability to conduct educational research
• Strong communication skills and the ability to engage with the public
• Experience in securing funding and managing budgets

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Employee discount

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Aviation Museum Curator
• Work Environment: This position is primarily based within the museum, with occasional local or national travel for conferences or professional development opportunities.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Museum Director or Board of Directors.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: Commensurate with experience
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Aviation Museum Curator Do?

An Aviation Museum Curator is responsible for the acquisition, care, and display of aviation artifacts in a museum.

They often work for museums that specialize in aviation history and technology.

Their primary role is to manage the museum’s collection, which includes preserving, conserving, and cataloging the aviation artifacts.

This could range from aircraft models, engines, flight suits, to personal belongings of significant aviators, and historical documents.

They also work closely with researchers and historians to develop exhibitions that accurately represent aviation history and educate the public.

This includes planning and designing exhibitions, writing interpretive materials, and organizing tours.

The curator is also tasked with identifying and acquiring new artifacts that can enhance the museum’s collection and contribute to the overall narrative of aviation history.

This might involve negotiating purchases, accepting donations, or even participating in archaeological digs.

The Aviation Museum Curator often interacts with visitors, answering their queries, and providing detailed information about the exhibits.

They may also conduct lectures, workshops, and other educational programs to engage with the museum audience.

In addition, they may be responsible for seeking funding and grants to support the museum’s operations, including conservation efforts, research, and educational programs.

 

Aviation Museum Curator Qualifications and Skills

An Aviation Museum Curator should have a unique blend of skills and qualifications for managing and presenting historical artifacts, such as:

• Strong knowledge of aviation history and aircraft technology, along with a keen interest in the continual learning and understanding of the field.
• Excellent organizational and planning abilities to manage collections, exhibitions, and rotations of the museum’s artifacts.
• Exceptional research skills to verify the accuracy of information about exhibits and to help in discovering new artifacts or collections.
• Impressive communication skills to interact with museum visitors, staff, donors, and professional peers, and to convey complex aviation concepts in a way that is easy to understand.
• Proficient administrative abilities, including budgeting and project management, for overseeing museum operations and staff.
• Conservation expertise to ensure the proper storage, handling, and display of delicate or valuable artifacts.
• Strong networking skills to forge connections with other aviation experts, collectors, and institutions.
• Good problem-solving skills to tackle challenges like limited space, difficult-to-display items, or varying visitor interests.

 

Aviation Museum Curator Experience Requirements

Entry-level Aviation Museum Curators often hold a bachelor’s degree in a related field like history, museum studies, or aviation, supplemented by some relevant work experience, often gained through internships or part-time roles in museum operations or aircraft restoration.

Candidates with 2 to 3 years of experience are likely to have honed their skills in areas such as collection management, exhibition development, and educational programming in a museum setting.

They may also have experience working with artifacts, conducting research, and organizing exhibitions.

Those with more than 5 years of experience typically have developed in-depth knowledge about aviation history and aircraft, and have taken on additional responsibilities such as budgeting, fundraising, and staff supervision.

They may also have significant experience in grant writing, strategic planning, and community outreach programs.

Candidates with more than 7-10 years of experience are considered highly experienced and may be ready for senior curator roles or directorial positions in larger aviation museums.

At this level, candidates will have a proven track record of success in leading teams, developing innovative exhibitions, and advancing the museum’s mission.

They may also have expertise in a specific area of aviation history.

Advanced degrees in museum studies, history, aviation or a related field, as well as professional certifications from museum associations, can further enhance a curator’s qualifications.

 

Aviation Museum Curator Education and Training Requirements

To become an Aviation Museum Curator, candidates typically require a bachelor’s degree in history, museum studies, aviation history, or a related field.

In-depth knowledge of aviation history and exhibits is crucial, so coursework or practical experience in this specific area is beneficial.

Some institutions may prefer candidates with a master’s degree in museum studies or a related discipline.

Curators often need to have previous experience, which could be obtained through internships or volunteer work at a museum.

A museum curator may also need specific training in archival management, exhibit design, and museum education programs.

Certifications in museum studies or a related field can be beneficial.

They demonstrate a candidate’s professional commitment and can provide them with practical skills in museum operations.

Continuing education opportunities, such as attending lectures, workshops, or conferences related to aviation or museum studies, can be beneficial for staying current in the field.

Communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential as the curator will need to interact with the public, staff, and possibly donors.

They will also need to write grant proposals and fundraising documents.

Fluency in a second language can be an advantage, particularly in museums with international visitors.

In addition, strong organizational and management skills are important, as curators often need to handle multiple projects and manage other museum staff.

 

Aviation Museum Curator Salary Expectations

An Aviation Museum Curator can expect to earn an average salary of $52,140 (USD) per year.

This income may fluctuate based on factors such as experience, specific knowledge in aviation history, the size and location of the museum, and the curator’s educational background.

 

Aviation Museum Curator Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Aviation Museum Curator need?

Aviation Museum Curators should have strong organizational skills to manage the museum’s collection and exhibits.

They should also possess excellent communication skills to liaise with donors, staff, and the public.

Knowledge of aviation history and artifacts is essential.

In addition, curators should have project management skills and an understanding of museum operations.

 

Do Aviation Museum Curators need a degree?

Yes, a degree is usually required to become an Aviation Museum Curator.

A bachelor’s degree in museum studies, history, aviation, or a related field is usually the minimum requirement, though many museums prefer candidates with a master’s degree.

Some museums may also require work experience in a museum or related setting.

 

What should you look for in an Aviation Museum Curator resume?

Experience in curatorial work, especially in aviation, is key.

Look for proven experience in managing collections and exhibits, coordinating events, and fundraising.

Additionally, any education in aviation, history, or museum studies is beneficial.

Check for any additional certifications in museum management or related fields.

 

What qualities make a good Aviation Museum Curator?

A good Aviation Museum Curator has a strong passion for aviation history and a keen eye for detail.

They should be able to manage multiple projects and work well under pressure to meet deadlines.

Communication skills are essential, as they will need to interact with various stakeholders including staff, donors, and visitors.

Creativity is also important for designing engaging exhibits.

 

Is it difficult to hire Aviation Museum Curators?

Hiring an Aviation Museum Curator can be challenging as it requires finding a candidate with a unique blend of skills.

These include a deep understanding of aviation history, strong organizational skills, project management experience, and the ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.

As such, the hiring process may take time to find the right candidate.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve journeyed through the intricate world of an Aviation Museum Curator.

And guess what?

It’s not just about loving aircrafts.

It’s about preserving aviation history, one exhibit at a time.

With our easy-to-use Aviation Museum Curator job description template and real-world examples, you’re prepared to take flight.

But why limit your horizon?

Soar higher with our job description generator. It’s your navigation tool to precision-crafted job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every exhibit is a chapter in the grand history of aviation.

Let’s preserve that history. Together.

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