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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 ...

SSA Group

Retail - Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.25/hr

Retail Associate - Pokemon Fossil Museum Exhibition Store (The Field Museum) Who are we: For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience ...

SSA Group

Warehouse - Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Warehouse Associate - Pokemon Fossil Museum Exhibition Store (The Field Museum) Who are we: For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience ...

SSA Group

Warehouse - Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Warehouse Associate - Pokemon Fossil Museum Exhibition Store (The Field Museum) Who are we: For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience ...

SSA Group

Warehouse - Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.50/hr

Warehouse Associate - Pokemon Fossil Museum Exhibition Store (The Field Museum) Who are we: For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience ...

MCA

Associate Director of Individual Giving

Chicago, IL · On-site

$72K - $93K/yr

We have an opening for an Associate Director of Individual Giving to support the Development ... This role manages the museum's mid-level donor pipeline, driving acquisition, retention, and ...

RAVENSWOOD STUDIO

Technical Designer

Lincolnwood, IL · On-site

$25 - $34/hr

Associate Director of Technical Design About Ravenswood Studio Inc. Ravenswood Studio is a ... With our core values of Trust, Ingenuity and Excellence, we build museum and corporate exhibits ...

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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 Jul 27, 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?

A museum associate is a staff member responsible for assisting with daily operations, visitor services, and educational programs at a museum. They often engage in tasks such as guiding visitors, maintaining exhibits, and supporting museum staff, typically requiring good communication skills and knowledge of museum collections.

What is the highest paying job at a museum?

The highest paying job at a museum is typically the Museum Director or Executive Director, who oversees operations, budgets, and strategic planning. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership skills, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the institution's size and location.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Museum Associate, and why are they important?

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.

What qualifications do I need to work at a museum?

Museum associates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring or requiring a bachelor's degree in fields like history, art, or museum studies. Relevant skills include good communication, attention to detail, and familiarity with museum collections or customer service; certifications are not usually mandatory but can be beneficial. Experience in retail, education, or customer service can also be advantageous for certain roles.

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.

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 are Museum Associates?

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.

Is it hard to get hired at a museum?

Getting hired as a museum associate can be competitive, as many positions require relevant education, such as a degree in museum studies, history, or a related field, along with experience in customer service or education. Strong communication skills, familiarity with museum exhibits, and sometimes volunteer work or internships can improve chances of employment. The hiring process often involves interviews and background checks, and openings may be limited depending on the institution's size and funding.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 41% Part Time, 7% Temporary, 7% Contract, and 4% Nights. 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

Posted 10 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