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Museum Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Jackson Therapy Partners

COTA - Travel Contract

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$28.25 - $37.50/hr

Associate degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited college * Active State License is ... The city sits along the Missouri River and features the Sergeant Floyd River Museum and Lewis and ...

Jackson Therapy

COTA - Travel Contract

Sioux City, IA

$28.25 - $37.50/hr

Associate degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited institution * Active State License ... Nestled along the Missouri River, the city features the Sergeant Floyd River Museum and the Lewis ...

Jackson Therapy

COTA - Travel Contract

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$28.25 - $37.50/hr

Associate degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited institution * Active State License ... Nestled along the Missouri River, the city features the Sergeant Floyd River Museum and the Lewis ...

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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 Iowa?

The most popular types of Museum jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Museum Associate jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Museum Associate job openings:

Museum Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Associate job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Programming Associate - MacNider Art Museum

Mason City, IA • On-site

City of Mason City, IA
See more jobs at City of Mason City, IAexternal

$17 - $18.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Salary: $17.00 - $18.50 Hourly
Location : 303 2nd Street SE, Mason City, IA
Job Type: Part-time
Job Number: 2025-00117
Department: Charles H MacNider Art Museum
Opening Date: 08/27/2026
Closing Date: 9/11/2026 4:30 PM Central
Residency Requirement?: No
Description
Are you passionate about art and education? The Charles H. MacNider Art Museum is seeking a creative and enthusiastic part-time Programming Associate to join our team! In this hands-on role, you'll develop and teach captivating art classes, and conduct interactive tours to create a love for arts in our visitors and community.
Work Schedule: This position will work 28 hours per week and will includeteaching classes on Tuesday or Thursday evenings and every other Saturday. The remaining hours will be spent working in the studio during varied daytime hours.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Instruct classes at the Museum - adult Classes, children's art classes, artful birthday parties, camps, and programs.
  • Conduct informative and engaging tours of the museum for patrons.
  • Oversee the Kids Club and its activities.
  • Acts as studio manager alongside the Programming team. This includes assessing and fulfilling material and equipment needs for each class or event, ordering supplies, and coordinating with staff to ensure smooth operations.
  • Assist the Museum Curator in the setup and organization of the School Art Show .
  • Respond to public inquiries about special events via phone, email, or in-person.
  • Develop and contribute to brochures, flyers, news releases, and other promotional materials to advertise classes and educational programs. Drive community engagement and work to increase programming participation and revenue.
Minimum Requirements:
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Experience in one or more fields of art mediums, such as painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics or print making.
  • One year of experience working as an instructor, preferably in art.
  • Formal instruction in various mediums of art is desired. Associates degree or 60 hours of college level coursework from a recognized accredited institution in a related area is a plus.
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, graphics, and desktop publishing.

Applications will be accepted until 4:30pm, September 11, 2026
Equal Opportunity Employer
No benefits are available for this position.

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