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Museum Archivist Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Museum Assistant: Arthur Secunda Museum Duties Under the direction of the Curator, the Museum ... Rehouse Arthur Secunda and Cleary history archival material in acid-free folders and boxes

Supports collection maintenance of digital, physical, and archival materials in accordance with museum standards, including use of specialized hardware, software and technology. * Participates in the ...

Major Gift Officer

Farmington, MI · On-site

$70K - $92K/yr

The Center also invites the public to make use of its 20,000 volume Library Archive. Museum Educators and Docents provide customized tours, workshops and programs, empowering visitors to apply the ...

Comprised of a graduate Academy of Art, contemporary Art Museum, Center for Collections and ... Archives, Director of the Center for Collections and Research, Schools Administration and other ...

Museum Archivist information

See Michigan salary details

$24.8K

$63.4K

$103.7K

How much do museum archivist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for museum archivist in Michigan is $63,435.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,500.00 and $72,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 do museum archivists do in museums?

Museum archivists organize, catalog, and preserve historical documents, photographs, and artifacts to ensure their long-term accessibility. They often use specialized software for digital records and may conduct research or assist visitors with archival materials.

What are the most commonly searched types of Museum Archivist jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Museum Archivist jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Museum Archivist jobs in Michigan?

For Museum Archivist jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Museum Archivist jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Museum Archivist job openings:

Infographic showing various Museum Archivist job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 68% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,435 per year, or $30.5 per hour.

FWS: Museum Assistant

Cleary University

Howell, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Museum Assistant: Arthur Secunda Museum
Duties
Under the direction of the Curator, the Museum Assistant will work on museum collections and programs:
Collections
  • Conduct collections inventory, checking work against collections management system (CMS) database
  • Update object locations in CMS
  • Assist with artifact handling, moving, and hanging
  • Insert acid-free tissue as interleaving in flat file drawers
  • Assist with cataloguing Cleary history material
  • Rehouse Arthur Secunda and Cleary history archival material in acid-free folders and boxes
  • Develop inventories of archival material
  • Dismantle Cleary history shadowboxes to preserve historic documents

Programs
  • Assist with museum programs by facilitating art activities and giving museum information at events such including Secunda Second Sunday, High School Immersive Experience, Cleary Days, Night at the Museum, and offsite partner events
  • Develop programs and program activities as needed
  • Complete other duties as assigned related to museum exhibits and other projects

Skills
  • Artifact handling
  • Museum registration and collections management basics
  • Museum education best practices
  • Program and event development
  • Nonprofit cultural organization administration basics

Requirements
Must be a Cleary University Student
Must be available to work at Secunda Museum events