1

Museum Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Warehouse associate Warehouse Associate Full-time in San Leandro Ca. Job highlights Identified by ... Home to landmarks like Jack London Square and the Oakland Museum of California, as well as renowned ...

Showing results 41-60

Museum Associate information

What is a museum associate?

Museum Associates are professionals who support the daily operations of museums by assisting with visitor services, exhibitions, educational programs, and collection management. They often greet and guide visitors, answer questions, and help ensure that museum policies and procedures are followed. Museum Associates may also be involved in setting up displays, conducting tours, and supporting special events. Their work is essential for creating a welcoming and educational experience for museum guests.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a museum associate?

To thrive as a Museum Associate, you need a background in art history, museum studies, or a related field, along with strong organizational and customer service skills. Familiarity with collection management systems, ticketing software, and guided tour tools is typically required. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and a passion for education help someone stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring smooth museum operations, delivering engaging visitor experiences, and preserving valuable collections.

How does a museum associate typically collaborate with curators and educators within the museum?

Museum Associates often serve as a vital link between curators, educators, and the public. They assist curators by helping with exhibit installation, maintaining collection records, and ensuring artifacts are properly displayed. Additionally, Museum Associates frequently work alongside museum educators to help facilitate tours, educational programs, and special events, ensuring visitors have an engaging and informative experience. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as Museum Associates coordinate schedules, relay visitor feedback, and support the museum’s educational mission.

What is the difference between Museum Associate vs Museum Technician?

AspectMuseum AssociateMuseum Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree; some roles may prefer a bachelor'sAssociate degree or technical certification in museum studies or related field
Work EnvironmentMuseums, galleries, educational institutionsMuseums, conservation labs, exhibit preparation areas
Primary ResponsibilitiesAssisting visitors, educational programs, administrative tasksHandling artifacts, exhibit setup, conservation support

While both roles support museum operations, Museum Associates focus on visitor engagement and educational activities, whereas Museum Technicians are more involved in artifact handling, exhibit installation, and conservation tasks. The roles often overlap in work environment and required credentials, but their core responsibilities differ, making each essential to museum functions.

Is it hard to get a job as a museum associate?

Getting a job as a museum associate can be competitive, often requiring relevant education such as a degree in museum studies, history, or a related field, along with experience in customer service or educational roles. Strong communication skills, familiarity with museum operations, and sometimes volunteer work or internships can improve chances of employment.

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

The most popular types of Museum jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Museum Associate jobs?

Cities in California with the most Museum Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Museum Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Full Time, 70% Part Time, and 10% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Department: Safety & Security
Reports to: Manager, Safety & Security
Job Type: Full-time and Part-time - Regular
Job Classification: Hourly (Non-exempt)
Workplace Location: Los Angeles - Academy Museum
Compensation: $20.00 per hour
Summary/Objective:
The Safety & Security Associate will provide security for the facility and ensure the safety of the exhibits, art objects, visitors, and staff. We are seeking an individual who is reliable, punctual, and committed to maintaining high-level customer service that will strengthen the guest experience and create an environment that is safe, engaging, and inviting. Safety & Security staff are considered essential workers and may be required to work during emergency conditions (e.g., natural disasters, fires, civil disturbances, protests, pandemics, etc.).
This position is hiring for the following shifts:
  • Full-time: Swing Shift, Night Shift
  • Part-Time: Mid Shift, Swing Shift

Essential Functions of the Job:
  • Be assigned to a regular or special post; assignments may change daily and without notice.
  • Maintain high visibility while on assignment.
  • Maintain a positive, empathetic, and professional attitude towards guests.
  • Patrol assigned areas on foot and conduct security tours assisted by electronic devices as assigned to ensure personnel, visitors, building, and exhibitions security.
  • Greet visitors, and provide information, directions, and other assistance to ensure a positive visitor experience.
  • Assist visitors and staff in the safe evacuation from the building. May respond to incidents and emergency calls according to Academy Museum policy.
  • Enforce Academy Museum security policies and procedures using good judgment and excellent public relations skills. Refer unresolved concerns or issues to the shift supervisor.
  • Ensure all scheduled business appointments are verified and properly directed to staff or museum department upon arrival.
  • Monitor activity and immediately report any discrepancies observed (e.g., suspicious activity, security breaches, facility and safety hazards, and emergencies).
  • Contact emergency responders, such as police, fire, and/or ambulance personnel, as required.
  • Prepare routine, standardized reports and notifications for security management.
  • Participate in daily calls and training.

Required Competencies:
  • A high school diploma or equivalent certificate of completion.
  • 1+ years of experience in a safety & security or customer service position within a museum, public performance venue, or similar institution.
  • Must possess a valid California BSIS guard card OR be able to obtain one prior to your first day of employment.
  • Demonstrated experience interacting with the public in a professional manner- courtesy, positive demeanor, and good judgment.
  • Experience working in a business or employee entrance lobby.
  • Experience issuing staff or visitor ID badges and maintaining a daily accountability log.
  • Good communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Strong attention to detail and awareness of surroundings.
  • A commitment to diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion.
  • Ability to work a set schedule to include weekends and holidays. The scheduled hours may change weekly due to museum events.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience in a control room-related field is a plus but not required.
  • Experience in building evacuations and emergency response preferred but not required.

Physical Demands:
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the position, which include moving and remaining in a stationary position for long periods (up to 7 hours per shift).
Additional Information:
  • The interview process may include an assessment designed to provide insight into a candidate's work style and strengths.

Required Vaccination: Full vaccination against COVID-19 is required, including any booster vaccinations as applicable. Exception: Medical and religious accommodations approved by the Office of People & Culture.
Benefits:
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • 15 days of PTO, plus company-paid holidays.
  • Additional time off including summer hours, winter hours, and a cultural floating holiday.
  • Paid sick leave.
  • Paid parental leave.
  • 401k retirement plan with a company match
  • Clean Air Commuter Program
  • Employee Assistance Program through CompPsych Guidance Resources.
  • Wellness benefits through Cigna Healthcare.
  • Free access to 16,000+ online courses through LinkedIn Learning
  • Free Academy membership screenings
  • Free tickets and screenings at the Academy Museum
  • Employee discounts through LifeMart and Working Advantage

@museumLI