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Museum Archival Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Museum & Archives Coordinator

Linthicum, MD · Hybrid

$30/hr

About the Role A well-established national nonprofit association is seeking a Museum & Archives Coordinator to support historical projects, museum exhibits, communications initiatives, and research ...

Vanderbilt University

Museum Registrar

Nashville, TN · On-site

Responsible for the maintenance and care of the museum archives, including the care of existing accession, exhibition, and loan files; creates new accession, exhibition, and loan files * Organizes ...

Studio Museum in Harlem

Archivist

New York, NY · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

About Our Organization Founded in 1968, the Studio Museum in Harlem is the nexus for artists of ... Job Summary The Archivist will work under the direction of the Director of Collection and ...

Speedway Motors

Archivist Intern

Lincoln, NE

Sort, label, and organize archival and museum materials. * Conduct descriptive cataloging of records and extract their data into spreadsheets. * Research records, events, and figures to enrich Museum ...

Speedway Motors Inc.

Archivist Intern

Lincoln, NE · On-site

Sort, label, and organize archival and museum materials. * Conduct descriptive cataloging of records and extract their data into spreadsheets. * Research records, events, and figures to enrich Museum ...

Town of Windsor CT

Museum Attendant

Windsor, CT

$20/hr

Maintains and updates visitor amenities in the Archives Building. Ensures that the building is ... for the betterment of the museum. * Works with other local institutions for support, co ...

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How much do museum archival jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for museum archival in the United States is $72,781.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $83,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by museum archival professionals in preserving and digitizing collections?

Museum archival professionals often encounter challenges such as balancing the preservation of delicate artifacts with the need for public access and digital documentation. Handling fragile or deteriorating materials requires specialized techniques and careful environmental controls. Additionally, digitization projects can be time-consuming and resource-intensive, often requiring coordination with curators, IT staff, and external vendors. Staying updated on evolving best practices and technologies is crucial for ensuring long-term preservation and accessibility of collections.

Are museum archivists in demand?

Museum archivists are in moderate demand, with employment opportunities driven by the need to preserve and organize historical collections. Job growth is steady but can vary by region and institution size, often requiring skills in cataloging, digital archiving, and familiarity with archival management software.

How do I get into museum archival work?

To pursue museum archival work, obtaining a bachelor's degree in history, library science, or a related field is common, often supplemented by a master's degree in archival studies or library science. Developing skills in cataloging, preservation, and using archival management software like Archivist's Toolkit or PastPerfect can improve job prospects; internships or volunteer experience in museums or archives are also valuable for gaining practical knowledge.

Can archivists work at museums?

Yes, archivists often work at museums to preserve and organize collections of historical documents, artifacts, and records. They typically use specialized skills in cataloging, preservation, and digital archiving, and may require relevant certifications or degrees in archival studies or history.

What are Museum Archival jobs?

Museum archival jobs involve the preservation, organization, and management of historical documents, artifacts, and records within a museum setting. Professionals in these roles ensure that valuable collections are properly documented, stored, and maintained for both research and public display. They may also assist with cataloging new acquisitions, digitizing collections, and supporting exhibitions by providing access to archival materials. These positions require strong attention to detail, knowledge of preservation techniques, and often a background in history, library science, or museum studies.

What is the difference between Museum Archival vs Museum Collections Manager?

AspectMuseum ArchivalMuseum Collections Manager
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in history, library science, or archival studiesRequires a degree in museum studies, history, or related fields, often with collections management certification
Work EnvironmentArchives, storage rooms, and research areas within museums or archivesExhibition spaces, storage, and administrative offices within museums
Primary ResponsibilitiesPreserving, organizing, and cataloging archival materials and documentsManaging and maintaining museum collections, including acquisition, documentation, and display

While both roles involve handling museum materials, Museum Archivists focus on preserving and organizing archival documents, whereas Museum Collections Managers oversee the broader management of museum collections, including artifacts and exhibits. Both require similar credentials and work in related environments, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Museum Archivist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Museum Archivist, you need expertise in archival science, records management, and a relevant degree such as library science, history, or museum studies. Familiarity with digital asset management systems, cataloging standards (like DACS or MARC), and preservation techniques is essential. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly are standout soft skills. These competencies are crucial to ensure the accurate preservation, accessibility, and interpretation of valuable museum collections.

What degree do you need to be an archivist at a museum?

To be a museum archivist, a bachelor's degree in history, library science, archival studies, or a related field is typically required, with many positions preferring or requiring a master's degree such as a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) or a master's in history or archival studies. Relevant skills include knowledge of cataloging, preservation, and archival management software, and some roles may require professional certification or experience in handling historical materials.
More about Museum Archival jobs
What cities are hiring for Museum Archival jobs? Cities with the most Museum Archival job openings:
What states have the most Museum Archival jobs? States with the most job openings for Museum Archival jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Museum Archival jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Museum Archival jobs are:
Museum Archival jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Archival job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,781 per year, or $35 per hour.
Museum Archivist - Cogswell Heritage House

Museum Archivist - Cogswell Heritage House

American School for the Deaf

West Hartford, CT • On-site

Full-time

Medical

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

THE AMERICAN SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF

ANNOUNCES AN OPENING FOR

Museum Archivist – Cogswell Heritage House

CLOSING DATE: Open Until filled


CREATED: 04/13/2026

POST: 04/14/2026



The American School for the Deaf (ASD) maintains written Job Descriptions for most jobs. The Job Description is a guide to the basic and essential functions of each job; it is not an all-inclusive list of responsibilities. These Descriptions are revised to meet the changing needs of ASD at the sole discretion of the executive leadership team and/or in accordance with guidelines and standards set for an approved private special education program.



POSITION DESCRIPTION

Position: Museum Archivist – Cogswell Heritage House

Department: Museum

Supervisor: Executive Director or Designee

Description: Full time – 12 Months Benefits Eligible

Union Status: Non-Collective Bargaining (non-union)

SCOPE OF DUTIES

The Archivist is a multi-faceted position that integrates the roles of Archivist, Registrar, Project Manager, and Museum Manager. This role is responsible for the professional stewardship of collection materials, including accession, repatriation, cataloging, and conservation. The Archivist manages both physical and digital operations of the Cogswell Heritage House/American School for the Deaf Archival Database, ensuring all practices comply with federal and state regulations and standardized archival and museum practices. Additionally, the position is responsible for the maintenance and operation of the building housing the archive.


Primary Responsibilities:

1. Archive & Collection Management

  • Accessions & Inventory Management: Manage an inventory control process that incorporates existing accession records and researches potential new acquisitions.
  • Standardized Processing: Ensure all new materials are documented according to registration standards and oversee the repatriation of deaccessioned items.
  • Cataloging: Manage and catalog collections using archival field standards and best practices for both physical and digital materials and objects.
  • Institutional Collaboration: Maintain existing and establish new relationships with other institutions to facilitate collaborative projects, exhibits, item loans, and the accession or deaccession of materials.
  • Access & Retrieval: Develop finding aids and archival databases to facilitate research and access to collections.
  • Technical Standards: Establish standardized classification systems and nomenclature systems for organizing diverse collections.


2. Archival Preservation & Documentation

  • Archival Database Management: Oversee the digital operations of the CHH/ASD Archival Database, including procedures related to the Connecticut Digital Archive (CTDA).
  • Digital Preservation: Execute digital imaging for documentation and ensure the accuracy and proper formatting of transcripts for both new and existing acquisitions.
  • Collection Care: Implement proper storage methods and environmental controls for diverse materials, ensuring items are housed correctly both on and offsite.


3. Museum Stewardship & Public Programming

  • Facility Management & Disaster Planning: Maintain CHH/ASD facilities and equipment, including the development and implementation of a disaster plan for the collections.
  • Guided Tours: Manage and coordinate requests for historic guided tours of the Cogswell Heritage House and ASD’s West Hartford Campus. Responsibilities include:
    • Maintaining timely communication with requestors regarding dates, group size, and specific needs.
    • Arranging necessary interpreters, including ASL, International, and Tactile.
    • Coordinating museum volunteers and guiding tours when volunteers are unavailable.
  • Research Requests: Manage and coordinate responses to all external and internal requests for research.
  • Public Outreach: Prepare reports, updates, and articles for the Annual Report and ASD’s weekly newsletter; deliver public presentations related to projects and collections.


4. Administrative Leadership

  • Budgeting & Funding: Advise on the annual budget, oversee expenditures, and identify potential funding sources in cooperation with Institutional Advancement.
  • Project Leadership: Develop project plans, identify and track tasks, and supervise the work of interns and volunteers.


Core Competencies:

  • Strong knowledge of Deaf history and key historical figures, with a specific understanding of the history of the American School for the Deaf.
  • Excellent interpersonal, writing, research, and time-management skills.
  • Ability to maintain detailed and accurate records.
  • Ability to lift 30 lbs.
  • Proven reliability, trustworthiness, and a positive demeanor.



MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

  • Graduate degree required (MA required, PhD preferred) in History, Museum Studies, Library Science, or a related field.
  • Five or more years of experience in the archival field (or equivalent education/certification).
  • Technical Skills:
  • Proficiency in database software and archival metadata standards.
  • Experience digitizing archival materials and managing digital objects.
  • Knowledge of programs including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and the Connecticut Digital Archive (CTDA).
  • Ability to properly handle historical and fragile documents.
  • American Sign Language proficiency strongly preferred or commitment to learn.
  • Ability to flex work hours as needed to meet the needs of the museum.



SALARY AND BENEFITS:

  • Group health insurance and other fringe benefits are available.
  • $1000 sign on bonus after one year of service for newly hired employees, not applicable for re-hires.


ASD is ALL ways able. If you require an accommodation to apply for this position, please contact the Human Resources Department.


The American School for the Deaf does not discriminate on the basis of an individual's age, ancestry, color, genetic information, learning disability, marital status, past or present history of mental disability, intellectual disability, national origin, physical disability, race, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy, transgender status, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or civil union status) work place hazards to reproductive systems, and criminal record (in state employment and licensing).


All applicants will be screened, and the most highly qualified applicants will be invited to interview.