Curator, Photographs Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York is seeking a Curator of Photographs with expertise in twentieth-century and contemporary photography, as well as time-based media, particularly from Africa and Asia. This full-time role offers an annual salary range of $120,000–$165,000. The selected candidate will lead the organization and cataloguing of The Walther Collection, culminating in a major exhibition scheduled for 2028.

The position involves fostering research, acquisitions, and exhibitions that expand understanding of global photographic practices. The Curator will collaborate across departments with Conservators, Scientists, and Educators and contribute to the broader curatorial field through publications and professional engagement.

Eligible Locations

United States

Salary: $120,000-$165,000 per annum

Full-time

As a Curator, you will have expertise in twentieth century and contemporary photography, as well as time-based media, particularly in Africa and Asia. You will act as a leader within the organization and cataloging of The Walther Collection, leading to a major exhibition planned for 2028. You will foster new research, scholarship, acquisitions, and exhibitions to enrich our understanding of still under explored areas of global art-making.

You will collaborate with other Curators, Conservators, Scientists, and Educators and act as an advocate within the wider curatorial field through the publication and presentation of your work within professional forums.

Location Requirements

At time of employment, employees are expected to be located within commuting distance of the Museum. “Commuting distance” means that they are located in one of following states:
New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, or Pennsylvania (the “Tri-state and PA” areas), and be able to commute to and from the Museum in a single day.

Benefits Offerings:

The Metropolitan Museum of Art offers competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans with employer matching, and generous paid leave. Employees also enjoy professional development support, free financial-planning services, commuter benefits, staff discounts, subsidized meals, and free access to numerous museums and cultural institutions.