WORK WITH US
WORK WITH US: Curator + Program Manager
Position type: Ongoing Part-time (0.8 FTE), subject to a 6-month probation.
Salary: $68,000 to $72,000 per annum (calculated pro rata on a full-time basis of $85,000 to $90,000) + 12% superannuation.
Days and Hours: The position is part-time, 30 hours per week. A key requirement for this role is some flexible work hours for evenings or weekends.
Location: The position is based across Canberra Contemporary’s two gallery spaces. Some occasional offsite work is required.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Join Canberra Contemporary’s small, dedicated team and help shape the future of contemporary art in Kamberri/Canberra as our new Curator + Program Manager.
This ongoing 0.8 FTE role combines both curatorial and gallery management responsibilities. Working across both Canberra Contemporary and our project space Platform, you will be responsible for curating in-house exhibitions and special projects with partner organisations, as well as supporting artists and external curators to realise ambitious artistic projects and public programs.
The Curator + Program Manager will be responsible for all aspects of exhibition management, including program planning and delivery, leading exhibition install and deinstall, drafting of exhibition and loan agreements, freight logistics, project budgets, and technical support. The role may also support the Canberra Contemporary team on other operational duties as required, including supervision of casual staff, mentorship to emerging artists, research & writing, catalogue design and production, building maintenance, WHS & event tech.
We are looking for someone who is a creative and bold thinker, able to work with care and compassion for a diversity of artists and communities and is invested in shaping contemporary discourse in the region and beyond. As a key member of the team, the Curator + Program Manager is an essential role whose contributions to the Artistic Program will ensure Canberra Contemporary remains relevant, timely, and an industry leader in the field.
The ideal candidate will be someone who can thrive in a small team and can contribute positively to a workplace culture where a diversity of views and lived experiences are supported. Relationship-building with artists and curators is at the heart of this work, and you will be confident working independently to numerous project deadlines, but also able to work reflexively and collaboratively with both internal and external stakeholders.
This is a rare opportunity for an ambitious and forward-thinking early-career or mid-career curator, who is ready to step into a position with fresh ideas and put them into practice. We look forward to hearing from you!
APPLICATION PROCESS
Download and read the full position description here.
To apply, please submit as one PDF document:
A 1-3 page written response to the selection criteria in the position description, outlining your interest and suitability for the role; and
A 1-2 page CV, including the names and contact details of two professional referees; and
*Optional: A short writing sample or excerpt (1 page max), taking the form of an exhibition review, catalogue essay, or other curatorial text.
Send your applications to
Sophia Cai, Artistic Director + CEO, director@canberracontemporary.com.au with the subject line “Curator + Program Manager”.
If you have access needs or would like to apply in another format, please get in touch before the closing date.
Applications close Friday 20 February 2026, 5pm AEDT
Interviews commence week beginning 3 March 2026