Charlotte Museum of History - Curator
Department: Interpretation

Reports to: Chief Interpretation Officer (CIO)
FLSA Status: Full-Time | Exempt

Charlotte Museum of History is looking for its next Curator, who will lead the development of exhibitions and interpretive experiences across the museum’s growing portfolio of sites and initiatives. This position oversees the full lifecycle of exhibition development, from research and concept creation through installation and evaluation, while also helping shape educational and interpretive strategies that connect diverse audiences through history.

The successful candidate will be both a creative storyteller and a skilled project manager, capable of balancing historical scholarship with engaging, accessible public experiences. This role requires collaboration across departments and with external partners, including designers, fabricators, educators, scholars, artists, and community stakeholders.

This position reports to the CIO and works closely with staff across exhibitions, collections, education, marketing, and operations.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Exhibition Development & Curation

• Lead the research, planning, and execution of temporary, permanent, and traveling exhibitions across multiple museum sites
• Develop exhibition concepts that connect local history to broader regional and national narratives
• Write and edit interpretive content including exhibit text, labels, digital content, and visitor-facing materials
• Oversee exhibition schedules, timelines, budgets, and deliverables
• Coordinate with designers, fabricators, and contractors to ensure successful implementation of exhibitions
• Assist with object selection, loans, acquisitions, and exhibition-related collections research

Interpretation & Visitor Experience

• Help shape interpretive strategies that make history accessible, engaging, and relevant for diverse audiences
• Collaborate with education staff to align exhibitions with tours, school programming, public programs, and educational resources
• Contribute to the development of interactive, multimedia, and technology-driven interpretive experiences
• Ensure exhibitions and interpretive materials reflect best practices in accessibility and inclusive storytelling

Research & Content Development

• Conduct primary and secondary source research related to exhibitions and museum initiatives
• Maintain historical accuracy and scholarly integrity while presenting content in an engaging and approachable manner
• Support grant writing, sponsorship proposals, and institutional storytelling efforts through content expertise
• Serve as an internal resource for historical research and interpretation

Collaboration & Public Engagement

• Build relationships with community organizations, scholars, collectors, artists, and cultural partners
• Participate in public programs, lectures, media opportunities, and community engagement initiatives
• Represent the museum professionally at conferences, meetings, and public events
• Collaborate closely with museum leadership on strategic initiatives and long-term institutional growth

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in History, Public History, Museum Studies, American Studies, or a related field
• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in museum exhibitions, interpretation, or public history
• Demonstrated experience managing complex projects and multiple deadlines
• Strong research, writing, and editing skills
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced and evolving environment

Preferred

• Master’s degree in History, Museum Studies, Public History, or related field
• Experience with exhibition design and production processes
• Familiarity with digital and interactive exhibition technologies
• Experience working with historic sites, historic houses, or cultural institutions
• Knowledge of Charlotte, North Carolina, or Southern history
• Adobe Creative Suite or exhibit planning software experience a plus

Work Environment & Expectations

• Occasional evening and weekend work required for programs, installations, and events
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail
• Comfortable working both independently and collaboratively
• Passion for innovative, community-centered public history work

WHAT WE OFFER

•        Salary range: $80,000 annually based on qualifications and experience.
•       Medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, short- and long-term disability, and pet insurance benefits.
•        Generous PTO policy.
•        Free parking.
•       Flexibility for hybrid work schedule.
•        Professional development opportunities.

If you are interested in this position, please email a cover letter outlining your qualifications and resume to admin@charlottemuseum.org. In your cover letter you should include a link to a portfolio or other online collection of your work. We will accept applications until the position is filled. Interviews will begin in early November. No calls, pop-up visits, or direct messages to staff via email or social media (including LinkedIn), please.

It is the Charlotte Museum of History’s policy to provide equal opportunity in employment to all employees and applicants. No person shall be discriminated against in any condition of employment because of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, military or veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender dysphoria, citizenship status, genetic information, predisposition or carrier status, domestic violence victim status, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.