https://texasmaritimemuseum.org/careers-form/
Texas Maritime Museum Curator Opportunity
The Texas Maritime Museum (TMM), located in Rockport, Texas, is seeking a qualified and dedicated Curator to oversee the stewardship, care, and interpretation of its maritime artifact collection. This full-time, salaried position plays a key role in the development and management of the museum’s exhibitions, research initiatives, and collections care strategies. Reporting to the Executive Director, the Curator collaborates closely with museum staff, volunteers, the Board of Trustees, and community partners to advance the museum’s mission.
The successful candidate will demonstrate expertise in collections management, a strong foundation in research methodologies, and excellent communication and organizational skills. A background or interest in maritime history is highly desirable.
Key Responsibilities
COLLECTIONS MANAGEMENT & PRESERVATION
- Develop and implement strategies for the acquisition, care, documentation, and storage of artifacts in accordance with professional museum standards.
- Plan and manage collections storage space, and artifact housing solutions.
- Ensure the physical preservation of the museum’s collections through preventive conservation and appropriate environmental controls.
EXHIBITION & INTERPRETATION
- Lead the development and implementation of exhibitions in collaboration with the Executive Director and other stakeholders.
- Contribute to interpretive planning, label writing, and exhibit content that enhances public engagement and understanding of maritime themes.
RESEARCH
- Conduct original scholarly and object-based research relevant to maritime history, preservation techniques, and the museum’s collections.
- Support the development of exhibits, publications, and programming through informed and thorough research.
COMMUNICATION & OUTREACH
- Serve as a key liaison with the Education Director, Board of Trustees, Communication Specialist, and community organizations to promote collections-based programming.
- Participate in museum outreach, advocacy, and public engagement initiatives.
DIGITAL LITERACY
- Utilize or demonstrate a willingness to learn the museum’s collections management system (PastPerfect).
- Basic proficiency in graphic design and photo-editing software is preferred.
BUDGETING & ADMINISTRATION
- Develop and manage the annual budget for the Collections and Curation
- Department, including allocations for supplies, staffing support, artifact care, and exhibit development.
ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES
- Contribute to institutional planning and special initiatives as needed.
- Participate in museum events, fundraisers, and emergency response activities (e.g., hurricane preparations).
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
Required
- Bachelor’s degree in museum studies, history, archaeology, anthropology, or a related field.
- Demonstrated research skills and the ability to synthesize and communicate complex information clearly.
PREFERRED
- Minimum of 3 years of professional experience in collections management, curation, or a related area
- Experience or interest in maritime history and heritage.
- Familiarity with museum standards in preservation and documentation practices.
- Proficiency in PastPerfect or similar museum collections software.
- Basic skills in digital imaging and graphic design tools.
Key Competencies:
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Active listening and strong interpersonal skills.
- Ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment.
- Strong organizational and time management abilities.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit at a desk and use a computer for extended periods.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds.
- Periodic walking, standing, bending, climbing, and stooping.
- Ability to navigate stairs and outdoor pathways.
- Must possess good hearing and vision.
Position Details
- Schedule: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, with a one-hour lunch break. Occasional evening and weekend work required for events and museum needs.
- Travel: Less than 20% annually.
- Salary Range: $45,000 – $55,000 annually, based on qualifications and experience.
- Benefits: Medical insurance coverage is provided for the employee.
To Apply
Please submit a Letter of Interest and Resume by July 31, 2025, at 4:00 PM CST to:
Michael Ables, Executive Director Texas Maritime Museum 1202 Navigation Circle Rockport, TX 78382
Email submissions are accepted: executivedirector@texasmaritimemuseum.org Questions may be directed to 361-729-1271
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $45,000.00 – $55,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Health insurance
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Monday to Friday
- Weekends as needed
Work Location: In person
Underwater Archaeology and Maritime History jobs 