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Museum Archivist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Warnerbros

Archivist (Collections)

Burbank, CA

Bachelors or Masters in Archive Science, Museum Studies, or related experience in an archives, preferred * Excellent written and communication skills with vendors, partners, and staff * Working ...

Zimmerman Associates, Inc.

Archivist

Washington, DC · On-site

$43.76/hr

Graduate degree in Library Science, Archives, or Museum Studies * Minimum of 3 years of experience performing archival work, including project and workflow management * Strong knowledge of archival ...

Zimmerman Associates, Inc.

Archivist

Washington, DC

$43.76/hr

Graduate degree in Library Science, Archives, or Museum Studies * Minimum of 3 years of experience performing archival work, including project and workflow management * Strong knowledge of archival ...

Wheaton College

Processing Archivist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K/yr

... archives, or museum setting, working with diverse collections and users. * Ability to build ... productive working relationships and collaborate effectively across teams and with external ...

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How much do museum archivist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for museum archivist 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.

How do you become a museum archivist?

To become a museum archivist, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in history, library science, archival studies, or a related field, with many pursuing a master's degree for advanced positions. Relevant skills include organization, attention to detail, and familiarity with archival management software; some roles may also require certification or experience in preservation. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions in archives or museums is also beneficial.

What Does a Museum Archivist Do?

As a museum archivist, you help appraise and maintain the materials and documents associated with a specific collection. In this role, you may help restore historical items, research this history of specific objects, oversee other museum staff, and otherwise authenticate various materials. Museum archivists also help coordinate educational study programs, manage tours and workshops, and otherwise help keep the museum functioning. Archivists usually work for curators, who serve as directors and help manage the daily operations of each facility. Many museum archivists specialize in specific areas, such as botany, geography, or metallurgy, and what you specialize in can affect the number and type of archivist roles you qualify for.

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 preservation techniques, usually supported by a degree in library science, history, or a related field. Familiarity with digital asset management systems, cataloging software, and archival standards such as DACS or EAD is typically required. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to communicate clearly with diverse stakeholders are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure the accurate preservation, organization, and accessibility of valuable museum collections for research, education, and public engagement.

What are some common challenges faced by museum archivists when managing large or diverse collections?

Museum archivists often encounter challenges such as limited storage space, preservation of delicate or aging materials, and the need to balance accessibility with security. Managing large or diverse collections requires meticulous organization and the adoption of digital cataloging systems to ensure accurate tracking and retrieval. Additionally, archivists must stay updated on best practices for preservation and digitization to protect artifacts while making them available for research and exhibitions.

Are museum archivists in demand?

Museum archivists are in steady demand due to ongoing needs for preserving and managing historical collections. Employment opportunities often depend on the size of the institution, funding, and the archivist's skills in cataloging, digital tools, and conservation. Job growth is expected to be steady, with competition for positions in larger or specialized museums.

What does a Museum Archivist do?

A Museum Archivist is responsible for preserving, organizing, and managing the historical records and documents of a museum. Their tasks include cataloging and maintaining archives, ensuring the proper storage and conservation of materials, and making these records accessible to researchers and the public. Archivists may also assist with exhibitions, digitalization projects, and educating staff or visitors about the museum's collections. Their work is essential for safeguarding the museum’s history and supporting research activities.

What is the average salary of an archivist?

The average salary of a museum archivist typically ranges from $40,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Archivists with specialized skills or working in larger institutions may earn higher salaries, and certifications can also influence compensation.

Can archivists work at museums?

Yes, museum archivists are employed to preserve, organize, and manage historical collections and records within museums. They often use specialized tools and require knowledge of archival standards, and may need relevant certifications or degrees in history, library science, or archival studies.
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Museum Archivist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Archivist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 36% Locum Tenens, 4% Internship, 18% As Needed, 10% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 29% Temporary. Highlights an 69% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 30% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,781 per year, or $35 per hour.

Gottesman Learning Center Exhibition Archivist

American Museum of Natural History

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Position Title
Gottesman Learning Center Exhibition Archivist
Department
Education - 050
Position Summary
The American Museum of Natural History is one of the world's preeminent scientific and cultural institutions, and has as its mission to discover, interpret and disseminate information about human cultures, the natural world and the universe through a wide-ranging program of scientific research, education and exhibition.
The Gottesman Learning Center Exhibition Archivist will work in collaboration with staff of the Education division, Library and across the Museum to develop innovative, interpretive temporary exhibitions in the Library's Alcove Gallery, featuring the Library's rich collection of rare, published natural history literature and unique, original Museum Archives of photography, moving images, art, records and Museum memorabilia. The Archivist will provide content support and input to the Learning Center Program Manager in the creation of events aimed at general museum visitors and niche interest groups. Small Library-based exhibits will celebrate the Library collections and complement other exhibits in the museum at large. The Archivist will participate in an outreach program to promote the exhibits and the unique affordances of the AMNH Research Library Collection.
The Gottesman Learning Center Exhibition Archivist should have the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment that supports teamwork and collaboration among Public Programs, Exhibitions, and Library staff, partner teams from other Museum departments, volunteers, and interns.
Job responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Research and Exhibitions
  • Develop overall concept of exhibition and select appropriate materials and write text for exhibit labels.
  • Conduct research in Library and Archives to identify materials to include in exhibits.
  • Work closely with Archives staff to process exhibition materials as needed.
  • Work closely with Library Conservator to identify materials requiring pre-exhibition conservation treatment.
  • Collaborate with Library Conservator and Exhibitions staff on display design and physical installation of exhibits.
  • Coordinate production of exhibit labels and panel materials with Exhibition Department.
  • Develop online exhibition components, as needed, as well as online versions of exhibits
  • Guide groups of visitors through the Alcove Gallery exhibits.
  • Train weekend staff on interpretation of Alcove Gallery content.

Marketing and Communications
  • Collaborate with Communications and Public Programs departments as needed to develop and carry out audience-specific marketing and outreach plans.
  • Work with Communications to prepare exhibit publicity materials such as catalogs, posters, postcards, web sites, and press releases.
  • Write blog posts on exhibit content and on collections identified for exhibition-related processing.

Professional
  • Stay current with best practices in academic library and science museum library exhibitions.
  • Attend professional conferences and webinars.
  • Work Saturday or Sunday weekly and support Learning Center exhibit-related programs during evening and weekend hours as needed.
  • Perform related projects and special assignments as requested.

The expected salary range for the Gottesman Learning Exhibition Archivist is $65,000/annual - $70,000/annual. The AMNH offers an extensive benefits package designed to meet the needs of our dedicated and diverse community.
Pay will be determined based on several factors. The hiring range for the position at commencement is based on the type of work and the scope of responsibilities. The salary and placement offered is based on a number of individualized factors, including, but not limited to, skills, knowledge, training, education, credentials, areas of specialization and depth and scope of experience.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Master's degree in library/information science with a focus in archives or special collections.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills for a variety of audiences, including the ability to deliver engaging public presentations about exhibits.
  • Ability to thrive in an environment that supports teamwork and collaboration among Public Programs, Exhibitions, and Library staff, partner teams from other Museum departments, volunteers, and interns.
  • Ability to work independently and as a team member and to work effectively and collegially across units and departments.
  • Excellent judgment, initiative, and problem-solving skills.
  • Outstanding interpersonal, research, and organizational skills, including attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Track record of developing innovative exhibits related to a wide variety of science and humanities fields and current events.
  • At least five years of professional experience working in a public, private, or university library, or nonprofit arts and/or culture organization, museum, or historical society.
  • Actively involved with the museum/historical/archive or library community of peers.
  • Knowledge of current trends in informal education methodologies in nonprofit learning centers, museums or other arts and culture organizations.
  • Interest, knowledge and enthusiasm for natural science.
  • Familiarity with OCLC's Wordshare Management Services (WMS) and ArchivesSpace.
  • Experience processing archival collections using ArchivesSpace archival collections management system.
  • Scanning experience and proficiency with Adobe Photoshop.
  • Undergraduate/graduate Degree in one of the natural sciences.

Physical Demands
  • Must be able to remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing) for prolonged periods.
  • Must be able to occasionally lift up to 20 pounds.
  • Must be able to move about the Museum campus.
  • Positioning/change of positioning: Must be able to frequently position oneself/body to accomplish job duties.
    • Balancing: Maintaining body equilibrium to prevent falling.
    • Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally and up to 20 pounds of force frequently. May include any of the following:
      • Lifting: Raising objects from a lower to a higher position or moving objects horizontally from position-to-position.

Category
Full-Time
Total Number of Scheduled Hours Per Pay Period
70
Union Status
Non-Union
FLSA
Exempt
Expected Salary Minimum
$65,000/annual
Expected Salary Maximum
$70,000/annual
EEO Statement
The American Museum of Natural History is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Museum does not discriminate with respect to employment, or admission or access to Museum facilities, programs or activities on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, age, disability, marital status, partnership status, gender (including sexual harassment), sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, pregnancy and lactation accommodations, alienage or citizenship status, current or former participation in the uniformed services, status as a veteran, caregiver, pre-employment marijuana testing, sexual and reproductive health decisions, salary history, national or ethnic origin, height, weight, or on account of any other basis prohibited by applicable City, State, or Federal law. Additional protections are afforded in employment based on arrest or conviction record, status as a victim of domestic violence, stalking and sex offenses, unemployment status, and credit history, in each case to the extent provided by law.
Quick Link
https://careers.amnh.org/postings/4714
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
GS972P
Open Date
02/03/2026
Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants

Apply