ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Museum Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Field Museum

Postdoctoral Research Scientist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$61K/yr

The Grainger Bioinformatics Center in the Science and Education Department at The Field Museum is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Scientist to conduct phylogenomic research on lichens. This is a ...

Field Museum

Postdoctoral Research Scientist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$61K/yr

The Grainger Bioinformatics Center in the Science and Education Department at The Field Museum is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Scientist to conduct phylogenomic research on lichens. This is a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMuseum Associate JobsMuseum Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

Museum Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$27.8K

$145.5K

$319.9K

How much do museum associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for museum associate in Chicago, IL is $145,466.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,300.00 and $218,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Museum jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Museum Associate jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Museum Associate job openings:

Museum Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $145,466 per year, or $69.9 per hour.

Sock Monkey Museum Team Member

Sock Monkey Museum

Lake Zurich, IL • On-site

$14 - $15/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Fun work environment
  • Employee discounts
  • Free uniforms
  • Flexible schedule

The Sock Monkey Museum is looking for an enthusiastic, friendly, and dependable team member to help create memorable experiences for our visitors. As a Museum Associate, you will greet guests, answer questions, assist with purchases, and help ensure every visitor has a fun and enjoyable experience.
Responsibilities include giving museum tours upstairs in the Museum, operating the cash register, assisting guests with our stuffable sock monkeys, and helping with birthday parties, workshops, school groups, and tour groups. You'll also help keep the museum and gift shop clean, organized, and welcoming for all visitors.
This position offers flexible hours with a varying schedule, including weekdays and weekends.
Responsibilities 
  • Friendly, outgoing, and professional with excellent customer service skills.
  • Energetic and able to multitask in a fast-paced environment. 
  • Dependable, responsible, and a team player. 
  • Comfortable speaking with groups and interacting with visitors of all ages. 
  • Retail or customer service experience is preferred but not required. 
     

Qualifications
  • College degree preferred 
  • Previous retail management experience is a plus
  • Competent computer skills
  • Public speaking skills as plus for giving Museum tours
  • Sewing skills a plus
  • Excellent team building and leadership skills
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills