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Full Time Museum Conservation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Brown County, WI

Museum Director

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$95K/yr

Green Bay, WI Job Type: Full-time Job Number: 2026-00116 Department: Neville Public Museum Opening ... conservation of relevant and significant objects of art, history, and science from or used in ...

Chrysler Museum Of Art

Art Preparator I

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$21 - $24.04/hr

Non-Exempt/Hourly Position Type: Full-time Supervisor duties: None Reports to: Chief Registrar Date ... Compliance with Museum Standards & Protocols - Adhering to conservation-approved handling methods ...

Worcester Art Museum

Preventive Conservator

Worcester, MA · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

The Preventive Conservator contributes conservation expertise to Museum events and capital projects ... Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. At this ...

Worcester Art Museum

Preventive Conservator

Worcester, MA · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

The Preventive Conservator contributes conservation expertise to Museum events and capital projects ... Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. At this ...

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Full Time Museum Conservation information

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How much do full time museum conservation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time museum conservation in the United States is $20.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full Time Museum Conservation professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Museum Conservation professional, you need expertise in materials science, art history, and conservation techniques, typically supported by a degree in conservation or a related field. Familiarity with analytical instruments, conservation documentation software, and environmental monitoring systems is often required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication with curators and stakeholders are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are essential for preserving collections, ensuring the longevity of artifacts, and maintaining the integrity of museum exhibits.

What is the highest paying job in conservation?

In conservation, senior roles such as Conservation Director or Chief Conservator tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $80,000 annually. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership skills in managing large projects or institutions.

What is the difference between Full Time Museum Conservation vs Museum Curator?

AspectFull Time Museum ConservationMuseum Curator
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Conservation, Art History, or related field; certifications like ISA or AICBachelor's or Master's in Museum Studies, Art History, or related field; often requires experience in curation
Work EnvironmentLaboratory or conservation studio within museums or cultural institutionsExhibition spaces, galleries, and administrative offices within museums
Employer & Industry UsageMuseums, galleries, cultural institutions focusing on preservationMuseums, historical societies, cultural organizations managing collections and exhibitions

Full Time Museum Conservation focuses on preserving and restoring artifacts, requiring specialized conservation skills. Museum Curators manage collections, develop exhibitions, and conduct research. Both roles are essential in museums but differ in daily tasks and expertise areas.

How do I get into museum conservation?

To pursue a career in museum conservation, obtain a relevant bachelor's degree in art conservation, archaeology, chemistry, or a related field, followed by a master's degree or specialized training in conservation techniques. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or apprenticeships and developing skills in materials analysis and preservation tools are essential for entry into the field.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

In the US, full-time museum conservation roles typically do not reach $300,000 annually. High-paying jobs in the field, such as senior conservators or museum directors, may earn six-figure salaries, but reaching $300,000 usually requires executive-level positions or related roles in private art collections or consulting firms. Most museum conservation professionals earn between $50,000 and $150,000 per year, depending on experience and institution size.

What are some of the typical challenges faced by museum conservation professionals in a full-time role?

Full-time museum conservation professionals often encounter challenges such as balancing the preservation needs of diverse collections with public accessibility. They must stay updated on the latest conservation techniques and materials, while also managing time-sensitive projects and collaborating with curators, registrars, and exhibition teams. Additionally, conservators frequently work under strict environmental and safety protocols to ensure the long-term protection of artifacts. Effective communication and adaptability are key in addressing the varied and sometimes unpredictable needs of different objects and stakeholders.

What is the highest paying job at a museum?

The highest paying job at a museum is typically the Museum Director or Chief Executive Officer, who oversees operations, budgets, and strategic planning. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership skills, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the institution's size and location.

What are Full Time Museum Conservation jobs?

Full time museum conservation jobs involve the preservation, restoration, and care of museum collections, such as artworks, historical artifacts, and natural specimens. Professionals in these roles assess the condition of objects, perform conservation treatments, and implement preventive measures to protect items from damage or deterioration. They may also document their work, conduct research, and collaborate with curators or other specialists to ensure the long-term preservation of cultural heritage. Full time positions typically require specialized education in conservation and may be based in museums, galleries, or cultural institutions.
What cities are hiring for Full Time Museum Conservation jobs? Cities with the most Full Time Museum Conservation job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Museum Conservation jobs? The most popular types of Museum Conservation jobs are:
What states have the most Full Time Museum Conservation jobs? States with the most job openings for Full Time Museum Conservation jobs include:
Full Time Museum Conservation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Museum Conservation job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,215 per year, or $20.8 per hour.
Conservation Scientist

Conservation Scientist

Philadelphia Museum of Art

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

We Are Committed to an Inclusive Workplace
At the Philadelphia Museum of Art, we actively seek to employ a diverse group of people who embody our organizational values. We welcome and encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply, especially those from marginalized and underrepresented groups in the museum field, who are inspired by our shared purpose and enjoy working collaboratively with others.
We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship or immigration status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other protected status. 
The Conservation Scientist conducts scientific research and analysis to inform the preservation and scholarly interpretation of the Museum’s collections. As a member of the Museum’s scientific staff, they help facilitate the development of the Scientific Research Department, and its staff. They contribute to long-range planning for department and Conservation Division. They participate in related activities to enable the Museum to fulfill its mission and maintain the highest standards of scholarship and professional practice.
Specifically, you will:
• Undertake scientific research and analysis of the Museum’s collections for their preservation and scholarly interpretation.
• Collaborate with conservators, curators, scientists, and educators at the Museum and elsewhere, regarding scientific, conservation, and art historical research.
• Prepare and disseminate written reports of scientific findings to Museum staff, as appropriate.
• Make research public via scholarly journals, exhibition catalogues, and presentations at conferences and public lectures.
• Enhance scholarship by staying abreast of developments in scientific and conservation literature and fields.
• Help plan and develop laboratory resources through grant proposals, in-kind donations and cultivation of individuals able to provide support.
• Help select and use instruments, and maintain instruments, equipment, and supplies.
• Work to ensure a safe laboratory environment for occupants.
• Help mentor and facilitate research of department’s technicians, fellows, interns, and students, and encourage their professional development.
• Help develop and implement departmental budget.
• Participate in tours and events for visitors and donors and fundraising events.
• Help develop and maintain professional collaborations with academic and corporate laboratories to provide external support.
• Perform educational outreach, e.g., lectures in chemistry or preservation programs.
• Participate in professional organizations.
• Ensure that appropriate skills and knowledge are developed and maintained through continuing education, training, and professional meetings.
 • Perform other duties as assigned.
Your background and experience include:
• PhD degree in a physical science or related discipline, and 5+ years professional experience in a museum, academic, or corporate research laboratory.
• May have supplemental conservation, fine arts, or art history degree.
• Competency in analytical techniques, such as FTIR, GC/MS, SEM/EDS, XRD, XRF, and related computer applications.
• Excellent communication skills in speaking and writing (evidence required).
• Ability to work and interact successfully with others in broad range of disciplines and positions, e.g., co-workers, students, and visiting scholars.
• Experience maintaining laboratory equipment and supplies.
Position and Compensation Details
  • The salary for this position is $91,000.
  • This position is Full-Time, Exempt, and 35 hours per week.
  • This position is part of the AFSCME Local 397 bargaining unit.
  • This position reports to Senior Scientist
  • Physical requirements:
    • Ability to utilize instruments and computers required of this job, to perform physically administrative duties in a typical laboratory environment, gallery, or exhibit space, and to access all public and staff areas of the Museum campus, with or without accommodation
    •  Able to regularly set up, adjust, and operate a computer/keyboard and other office equipment used to generate work/transmit data.
    • Able to safely lift and transport chemicals, liquid nitrogen and laboratory compressed gases, such as helium
    • Able to move up to 40 pounds
  • Background check required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.

Institutional Requirements
 
  • Upholds the professional standards of the field, always acts in a manner that is consistent with the best interests of the museum and protects and enhances its reputation and standing within the community of museums.
  • Adheres to the museum’s code of ethics and Employee Handbook and avoids any real or perceived conflicts of interest.
  • Shows respect for co-workers and visitors and an understanding of and appreciation for the diversity of the museum’s staff, volunteers, and audiences.
  • Maintains confidentiality.
  • Adheres to all museum protocols, procedures, rules, and policies.

Application Timeline
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.  We encourage candidates to apply early as the position will close once we have a robust applicant pool or a candidate has been selected.
What We Offer
Our employees are at the center of the museum. As an employee, you will have access to numerous museum perks including, but not limited to:
 
  • Free general admission to the museum for you and your immediate family
  • Discounted guest tickets for admission
  • Discounts on gift memberships
  • Special staff tours and presentations from our curatorial and conservation teams
  • Discounts at the museum restaurant, museum cafés, and museum retail and online stores

We offer a comprehensive benefits package for employees including:
 
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits
  • Fully paid short-term disability insurance, long-term disability insurance, and life insurance
  • Health savings or flexible spending account program
  • Retirement savings program with museum match
  • Paid vacation, personal days, sick days, and holidays

*Eligibility for certain benefits is based on a variety of factors including the employee’s regular schedule and tenure.
 

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