VACANCY | Assistant Curator: Exhibitions and Research

WE'RE HIRING

Job Title: Assistant Curator: Exhibitions and Research 

Department: Curatorial Department, Javett Art Centre at the University of Pretoria 

Reports to: Curatorial Director 

Job Status: Full-Time 

Compensation: Competitive, dependent on experience 

SUMMARY 

The Assistant Curator: Exhibitions & Research is a new role at the Javett Art Centre at the University of Pretoria (Javett UP) and supports the development and implementation of innovative exhibitions, publications, public activations, as well as transdisciplinary research and collaborations within the institution. The role requires a passion and understanding of contemporary art, cultural studies and transdisciplinary practices, aimed at a diverse and broad public, including artists, educations, school learners, the academic community and visitors. The Assistant Curator collaborate with these diverse communities, working closely with the Curatorial Director to develop and implement research and curatorial methodologies effectively. This is a junior supervisor position, with staff management responsibilities. The incumbent plays a key role in managing the administrative responsibilities of the curatorial department. 

KEY AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY 

• Work closely with the Curatorial Director and colleagues in the curatorial department in creating exhibitions, publications and public activations in both formal and informal contexts.  
• Contribute original research, curatorial methodologies, and work within transdisciplinary frameworks. 
• Support the coordination of research activities of the Curatorial Department 
• Coordinate schedules and planning of the Curatorial Department, liaising with internal and external stakeholders. 
• Contribute to developing, coordinating, implementing and managing contemporary art programmes and events. 
• Working with artists, curators and the academic community to develop and curate exhibitions or related programming and publications for a range of audiences 
• Working with diverse communities and understanding their cultural needs and interests. 
• Managing multiple projects simultaneously, including budgeting, scheduling, and resource allocation. 
• Act as line-manager for Curatorial Assistant(s) and interns within the department. 
• Play a key role in the administrative tasks of the department, including scheduling, planning, financial administration and reporting. 
• Support fundraising activities, including cultivation and grant writing.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE 

• Completion of a relevant post-graduate degree focusing on Museum Studies, Art History, Cultural Studies, Art Education, or an equivalent field or consummate work experience. 

           Minimum 2 years experience required in the following areas:

• Collaborating with contemporary artists, cultural producers, and other stakeholders in the art community to create exhibitions, publications and public activations in both formal and/or informal contexts. 
• Developing, coordinating, implementing and managing contemporary art programmes and events. 
• Working with artists, curators and the academic community to develop and curate exhibitions or related programming and publications for a range of audiences. 
• Working with diverse communities and understanding their cultural needs and interests. 
• Managing multiple projects simultaneously, including budgeting, scheduling, and resource allocation. 
• Managerial and supervisory experience and related administrative tasks.

REQUIRED SKILLS 

• High level of cultural awareness and sensitivity to engage with diverse communities respectfully and inclusively. 
• Excellent communication and writing skills. 
• Strong research skills. 
• Strong administration and coordination skills. 
• Ability to work both independently and with a team to deliver work within agreed timeframes. 
• Effective problem-solving skills. 
• Flexibility when the schedule requires it. 
• Competent computer skills, including the use of Microsoft Office applications, email services, and the internet, as well as a willingness to learn new digital skills and software. 
• Ability to objectively and fairly mediate contentious discussions and hear all points of view on various topical issues. 
• Passionate about contemporary art and leading edge curatorial practices. 
• Knowledgeable about contemporary culture from Africa and the diaspora with good understanding of world Art Histories and African Art Histories in particular. 
• Strong interpersonal skills.

SPECIALISED KNOWLEDGE AND COMPETENCIES 

• Be in touch with local and international networks related to contemporary art and transdisciplinary research. 
• A driver’s licence and own vehicle will be an additional benefit. 
• Knowing more than two languages is an advantage.

KEY ATTRIBUTES 

The ideal candidate is sharp, organised, and proactive, with meticulous attention to detail and a genuine passion for art, artists and curatorial practice. They should be an excellent communicator - both written and verbal - with a proven ability. With a strong grounding in art history and a deep interest in art and artists from Africa and diasporic culture, they bring both knowledge and curiosity to the role. They should be able to work well independently and collaboratively, approaching challenges with a calm, solutions-oriented mindset. Flexible and dependable, they are willing to assist during after-hours when needed. 

APPLICATION PROCESS 

Applicants are requested to submit applications to [email protected] with the Subject Line: Application for Vacancy: Javett-UP Assistant Curator: Exhibitions and Research 

In applying for this post, please attach: 

• Brief expression of interest letter; 
• A comprehensive CV; 
• Certified copies of qualification/s; 
•  Names, e-mail addresses and telephone details of three referees whom we have permission to contact.

No application will be considered if it does not comply with at least the minimum requirements. 

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS 

16 October 2025 at 5pm. 

PLEASE NOTE 

Shortlisted candidates may be required to participate in relevant skills assessments as part of the selection process. 

The annual remuneration package will be commensurate with the incumbent’s level of appointment, as determined by Javett-UP management. 

Should you not hear from Javett-UP within 3 weeks of submitting your application, please accept that your application has been unsuccessful. 

Javett-UP is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity. In accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of Javett-UP and its Employment Equity goals and targets, preference may be given, but is not limited to candidates who are from under-represented designated groups. 

By applying for this vacancy, the candidates consent to undergo verification of personal credentials and related information including, but not limited to, qualifications, criminal record, current and historic disciplinary proceedings as part of the selection process. 

The Javett-UP reserves the right to not fill the advertised position.