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Full Time Museum Cataloging Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Collections Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

Exempt Schedule: Full-Time Reporting Manager: Senior Collections Manager Travel: Approximately 25 ... Catalog and document Museum special collections according to Museum documentation standards * Move ...

Additionally, the Fellow will receive training in TMS (The Museum System), the collections ... Register, catalogue, document, and record artworks both on loan to and owned by MFA in the ...

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Full Time Museum Cataloging information

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$31.5K

$44.2K

$56K

How much do full time museum cataloging jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time museum cataloging in the United States is $44,195.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $48,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is full time museum cataloging?

A full time museum cataloging job involves the systematic documentation and management of a museum's collection. Catalogers are responsible for recording detailed information about each object, such as its origin, condition, history, and location within the museum. This information is typically entered into a digital collection management system to ensure accurate tracking and accessibility. Full time positions generally require attention to detail, organizational skills, and knowledge of museum standards for cataloging. Catalogers may also assist with research, exhibitions, and the care and preservation of objects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time museum cataloger?

To excel as a Full Time Museum Cataloger, you need strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and a background in art history, museum studies, or a related field. Familiarity with museum collection management systems (such as TMS or PastPerfect) and digital cataloging standards, as well as experience with database software, are typically necessary. Excellent written communication, analytical thinking, and the ability to work independently make candidates stand out. These skills ensure accurate documentation, preservation, and accessibility of collections, which are critical for the museum's educational and preservation missions.

What are some typical challenges faced in a full time museum cataloging role, and how can they be managed?

Full-time museum catalogers often encounter challenges such as managing large volumes of items, maintaining accuracy and consistency in records, and integrating new acquisitions into existing catalog systems. Staying organized and establishing clear cataloging standards helps ensure accuracy and efficiency. Collaboration with curators, conservators, and registrars is also essential to verify details and prioritize tasks, making good communication skills and adaptability valuable assets in this role.

What is the difference between Full Time Museum Cataloging vs Part Time Museum Cataloging?

AspectFull Time Museum CatalogingPart Time Museum Cataloging
Work HoursTypically 35-40 hours per weekFewer hours, often less than 20 hours per week
Job ResponsibilitiesComplete cataloging, data entry, and collection managementSimilar tasks but on a reduced schedule
CredentialsRelevant education and experience often requiredSame credentials but with flexible scheduling
Work EnvironmentOn-site in museum or archive settingOn-site or remote, depending on institution policies

Full Time Museum Cataloging involves a standard 35-40 hour workweek with comprehensive responsibilities in collection management. Part Time Museum Cataloging offers similar duties but with fewer hours, providing flexibility for those balancing other commitments. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, but the full-time position typically offers more stability and benefits.

More about Full Time Museum Cataloging jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Museum Cataloging jobs?

The most popular types of Museum Cataloging jobs are:

What states have the most Full Time Museum Cataloging jobs?

States with the most job openings for Full Time Museum Cataloging jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Full Time Museum Cataloging jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Full Time Museum Cataloging jobs are:

Infographic showing various Full Time Museum Cataloging job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,195 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Cataloger - Fine and Decorative Arts

Heritage Auctions

Dallas, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Heritage Auctions rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 19 rated auctioneers


Job description

Description

The Fine & Decorative Arts Department seeks a full-time Fine Art Cataloger with strong research and writing skills and a broad interest in the visual arts. The position will primarily support Modern, Contemporary, and/or Street Art auctions while also assisting with other Fine Art categories as departmental needs require.

Heritage Auctions, headquartered in Dallas, Texas, is the largest auction house founded in the United States, with offices in New York, Chicago, Beverly Hills, London, Hong Kong, and other cities. Heritage serves more than 40 auction categories, including Coins, Sports, Comics, Historical, Jewelry, Fine & Decorative Art, Wine, and many more.


LOCATION:  South of Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, NW corner of W. Airport Freeway (Hwy. 183) and Valley View Lane 


BENEFITS:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision coverage
  • Paid time off
  • 401k savings plans
  • Onsite gym with access to a personal trainer

COMPENSATION: Commensurate based on experience.


SUMMARY: The Fine Art Cataloger is responsible for researching property and composing accurate, engaging catalog entries in collaboration with Specialists. The position will primarily support Modern, Contemporary, and/or Street Art auctions but may assist with American, European, Photography, and other Fine Art categories according to departmental needs and auction schedules. 


ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Research, identify, and accurately describe property for auction catalog entries
  • Verify artist, title, medium, dimensions, provenance, exhibition history, literature, and other relevant catalog information
  • Write condition reports and respond to client condition inquiries
  • Collaborate with Specialists, photographers, and other departments to ensure lots are accurately and completely represented
  • Write select catalog essays, artist biographies, and other editorial content
  • Conduct authentication and attribution research under the direction of Specialists
  • Proofread catalog entries, essays, and other auction materials
  • Assist with property intake, exhibition setup, previews, and auctions as needed
  • Manage multiple auction assignments and meet established cataloging and production deadlines
  • Provide cataloging support across Fine Art categories as departmental needs require
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

  • Bachelor's degree in Art History, Fine Art, Museum Studies, or a related field preferred; equivalent relevant experience will be considered
  • Master's degree preferred, but not required
  • Academic or professional experience in Modern, Contemporary, or Urban Art preferred
  • Auction house, gallery, museum, collection-management, or comparable object-based research experience preferred
  • Familiarity with cataloging standards, provenance research, and art-market resources is desirable


SKILLS & ABILITIES:

  •  Excellent research, writing, editing, and proofreading skills
  • Strong visual-analysis skills and exceptional attention to detail
  • Ability to interpret artist signatures, inscriptions, labels, and other identifying information
  • Ability to manage competing priorities and meet firm auction deadlines
  • Sound judgment regarding when additional research or Specialist review is required
  • Strong communication and client-service skills
  • Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively across departments
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel; ability to learn proprietary cataloging and auction-management systems
  • Willingness and ability to work across a range of Fine Art categories
  • Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and safely handle artwork


WORK ENVIRONMENT:  Individuals must be able to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. Some evening and weekend hours are required. 


Heritage Auctions welcomes and encourages applications from women, minorities, veterans, mature workers, and persons with disabilities. EOE


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