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- Tasks: Assist in curating modern and contemporary history collections and improve documentation programmes.
- Company: Join the National Museums Scotland, a leading museum group in Europe.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Make an impact on diverse collections and engage with the public.
- Qualifications: Passion for modern history and experience in museums or similar environments.
- Other info: Dynamic role with a collaborative team and excellent career growth potential.
The predicted salary is between 34368 - 37189 £ per year.
Fixed Term 12 Months | 35 hours Full Time
Salary: £34,368 - £37,189
Hours: 35 hours per week | Monday - Friday
Location: National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh; National Museum of Rural Life, East Kilbride; National War Museum, Edinburgh Castle and National Museums Collection Centre, Granton, Edinburgh | Hybrid
National Museums Scotland is one of the leading museum groups in Europe with one of the largest and most diverse collections in the world. As an organisation our values are Creative, Inclusive, Collaborative and Forward-thinking. We are looking for enthusiastic, knowledgeable and reliable individuals to join our curatorial team, working in the Modern unrivalled bagpiping collections and the material culture of working life, from ploughs to weavers’ tools. We hold extensive material representing military history and rural life, reflecting the strength of the foundational collections of the National War Museum and National Museum of Rural Life.
As an Assistant Curator in Modern and Contemporary History at National Museums Scotland you will:
- Apply expert knowledge of subjects and collections to create and improve National Museums’ documentation programmes.
- Assist with programmes of improvement to collections care to meet National Museums’ best practice.
- Be responsible for the secure movement and appropriate documentation procedures of the collections, as required.
- Answer public and researcher enquiries and enable access to collections.
Skills and experience we’re looking for in our Assistant Curator:
- Knowledge of, an interest in, or enthusiasm about the Modern and Contemporary History collections at NMS.
- Demonstrable experience in paid or unpaid work in museums or similar environment.
- ICT skills in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook, and database entry.
- Experience of dealing with public enquiries, visitors and/or volunteers.
Please be sure to view relevant attachments for this role (available on our Careers Portal: careers.nms.ac.uk) for full details of the position. The closing date for this role is Friday 6 March 2026. The Selection Event is likely to take place week beginning 23 or 30 March.
Assistant Curator, Modern and Contemporary History employer: National Museums Scotland
Contact Detail:
National Museums Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Curator, Modern and Contemporary History
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the museum sector, especially those connected to National Museums Scotland. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by diving deep into the collections and current exhibitions at NMS. Show us your passion for Modern and Contemporary History by discussing specific pieces or themes that excite you. We want to see that you’re not just a fit on paper, but genuinely enthusiastic about our work!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your public speaking skills! As an Assistant Curator, you’ll be dealing with public enquiries and visitors. We recommend joining a local speaking club or even rehearsing with friends to build your confidence. The more comfortable you are, the better you’ll shine during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, keep an eye on our careers portal for any updates or new opportunities that might pop up. We’re always looking for passionate individuals to join our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Curator, Modern and Contemporary History
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for Modern and Contemporary History shine through. We want to see your genuine interest in our collections and how you can contribute to our mission at National Museums Scotland.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Assistant Curator role. Highlight any relevant experience you've had in museums or similar environments, and don't forget to mention your ICT skills. We love seeing how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and experiences at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you'll find all the details you need about the role and our values there. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Museums Scotland
✨Know Your Collections
Dive deep into the Modern and Contemporary History collections at National Museums Scotland. Familiarise yourself with key pieces, their historical significance, and any recent exhibitions. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show your genuine enthusiasm for the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous work in museums or similar environments. Highlight specific projects or tasks where you applied your skills, especially in documentation or public engagement. Use examples that demonstrate your reliability and collaborative spirit.
✨Brush Up on ICT Skills
Since the role requires proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and database entry, make sure you're comfortable using these tools. Consider preparing a quick demonstration of how you would manage documentation or data entry tasks relevant to the position.
✨Engage with Public Enquiries
Prepare to discuss how you would handle public and researcher enquiries. Think of scenarios where you successfully assisted visitors or volunteers, showcasing your communication skills and ability to provide excellent customer service.