ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY

The North Carolina Arboretum is seeking a creative, collaborative, and organized Exhibits Curator to shape and deliver meaningful, dynamic exhibits across our 434-acre public garden. This includes a rotating indoor exhibit hall and a variety of outdoor and micro-exhibit spaces ripe for artistic and interpretive innovation. The Curator will lead exhibit development, installation, and evaluation—drawing on strong visual storytelling, community engagement, and design sensibility to deliver memorable visitor experiences aligned with our mission. This is a 30-hour-per-week position that offers full benefits, providing a unique blend of work-life balance and professional opportunities. The hiring salary for this 30-hour part-time, fully benefited role is between $33,500 and $38,000.

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:

We’re looking for someone equally comfortable dreaming big and sweating the details. You bring a strong creative vision, an interest in reimagining traditional exhibit formats, and a desire to bring delight and connection to our guests. Whether curating a bold new art installation or refining the labels on an outdoor sculpture, you’ll be a key voice in how our story is told.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & AUDIENCE EXPERIENCE

• Develop exhibit content and visuals that are accessible, inclusive, and engaging to a broad range of visitors.
• Conduct research on artists, natural history, and exhibit themes to support storytelling and programmatic relevance.
• Cultivate connections with local artists, universities, and creative communities to support ongoing exhibit innovation.Design or co-develop gallery experiences and light programming that encourage membership growth and deeper community ties.
• Collaborate with the Volunteer Program to create meaningful roles for volunteers in exhibit support, including gallery hosts, installation assistants, or interpretive guides.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Standing and Walking- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, primarily when overseeing installations, conducting tours, or assessing exhibits.
• Lifting and Carrying- Occasionally lift and carry objects, such as exhibit materials, artwork, display cases, or equipment (typically up to 25-50lbs).
• Climbing and Reaching- May require the use of ladders or step stools to adjust displays, lighting, or signage.
• Fine Motor Skills- Handling delicate artifacts, tools, and exhibit components requires good hand-eye coordination and dexterity.
• Visual Acuity- Ability to closely inspect exhibit details, artwork, and small objects.
• Working in Various Conditions- Some tasks may require working in climate-controlled or dimly lit areas, outdoors for specific installations, or in spaces with dust or historical materials.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND SKILLS

Graduation form a four-year college or university with a major in a field related to the area of assignment, or a minimum of four years of equivalent professional experience in a related field, plus at least one year of demonstrated experience in a relevant position showing attainment of the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Degrees must be from an appropriately accredited institution.

PREFERRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND SKILLS

Experience or training in graphic design, particularly related to the preparation of interpretive materials and signage demonstrating the ability to adapt branding and design principles across various exhibit formats. Familiarity with AutoCAD or similar design software is also preferred.
Classification: Curatorial Specialist
Position Competency Level: Contributing
Position Number: UNCSO-A019155
Employment Type: SHRA
Appointment Type: Permanent
Full-Time/Part-Time: Full-Time
Recruitment Salary Range: 33500-38000

The primary purpose of this position is to serve as manager of rotating educational and cultural history exhibits appropriate to the Arboretum’s mission and to participate in the development of original exhibits. The position focuses primarily on curation. Major exhibits related to the Arboretum’s expertise in natural science and cultural history rotate three to four times yearly within the main exhibit hall. This position also focuses on short-term/temporary pop-up exhibitions, the Rocky Cove Railroad signage, and managing The North Carolina Arboretum’s permanent artwork collection.